CAN ALLERGIES CAUSE HEARING LOSS?
EMERGENCIES AND HEARING LOSS
With warmer winter patterns and heavy
spring rains, plants have more potential to
produce pollen in the air to trigger allergy
symptoms. Some allergy sufferers will experience
runny noses and itchy eyes, but others may feel
pressure or a ringing sensation in their ears.
Histamine released in our bodies in reaction to
pollen causes an increased amount of mucous
production which can create problems in your ears.
The Eustachian tube, which is a drainage passage
for the middle ear, can become clogged. This causes
reduced mobility of the ear drum and the middle ear
to become inflamed. Excess fluid in the middle ear
can create a pressured or clogged feeling, which can
impact your ability to hear correctly. This fluid level
can fluctuate which can make you able to hear
sometimes and not hear other times. If this
condition persists the fluid in the ear can become
infected and cause pain and discomfort. Seeking
treatment for your allergies and possible infection is
important.
Increased allergens and moisture can also clog the
microphone ports in hearing aids. Regular cleaning
and replacing the covers over the microphones will
take care of this problem. These services are
available in our clinic.
From the dangers of natural disasters like tornados
and blizzards, to power outages and flooding,
planning ahead allows you to be more prepared
during an emergency. Here are some tips for
putting together a hearing loss emergency kit.
1. Extra hearing aid batteries.
2. Water-resistant hearing aid container.
3. Desiccant to absorb moisture from hearing
aids. A dry aid kit is ideal.
4. Cleaning tools. You can ask at our clinic for an
extra set of tools to keep in your kit. This
should include wax guards if you use them.
5. Paper and pen in case hearing aids do quit and
you need to communicate.
6. A list of city, county and state emergency
numbers in addition to close friends and
relatives that can help you if needed.
7. A spare set of hearing aids if you have them.
Another easy step you can take to make yourself
safer is to place a “Hearing Impaired” sign in your
home near your doors alerting emergency
personnel that you have difficulty hearing. It is also
important that trusted neighbors are aware of your
hearing loss. In the event of an emergency they will
know when and how to get a hold of you in case
you need to take shelter or evacuate your home.
You can also sign up for alert systems that will send
a text, email or phone call in the event of a disaster.
This is important if you cannot hear tornado sirens.