Hawthorn Medical Associates | Audiology Services

Audiology & Hearing Aid Services

Facts About Noise-Induced Hearing Loss
Approximately 36 million Americans have hearing loss, and one in three developed their hearing loss as a result of exposure to noise. Noise-induced hearing loss is caused by damage to the hair cells that are found in our inner ear. Hair cells are small sensory cells that convert the sounds we hear into electrical signals that travel to the brain. Once damaged, our hair cells cannot grow back, causing permanent hearing loss.
Hearing protection decreases the intensity, or loudness, of noise and helps preserve your hearing. Harmful sounds are those that are either too loud and last too long or are very loud and sudden, like with an explosion. The loudness of sound is measured in units called decibels (dB). Noise-induced hearing loss can be caused by prolonged exposure to any loud noise over 85 dB, such as:
• 60 dB—Normal conversations or dishwashers
• 80 dB—Alarm clocks
• 90 dB—Hair dryers, blenders, lawnmowers
• 100 dB—MP3 players at full volume
• 110 dB—Concerts, car racing and sporting events
• 120 dB—Jet planes at take off
• 130 dB—Ambulances
• 140 dB—Gun shots, fireworks, and custom car stereos at full volume
Noise is dangerous if:
• You have to shout over background noise to be heard
• The noise is painful to your ears
• The noise makes your ears ring
• You have "muffled" hearing for several hours after exposure
Protect your hearing by:
• Wearing hearing protection when around sounds louder than 85 dB for a long period of time
• Turning down the volume when listening to the radio, the TV, MP3 player, or anything through ear buds and headphones
• Walking away from the noise
If you think you may have a hearing loss, set up an appointment with Hawthorn Medical's audiologist to get your hearing checked.

Hawthorn Medical's Audiology/Hearing Aid Services offer the highest professional level of audiological services including complete diagnostic hearing and vestibular evaluations and hearing aid fittings. Audiology services relate to prevention, evaluation and rehabilitation of hearing and balance impairments. Our goal is to provide each patient with the best possible care based upon individual needs and to provide the quality of life that our patients' desire.

Take this simple test to determine if you should be concerned about hearing loss

Studies indicate that there are at least 28 million Americans who have hearing loss. The first step for anyone who suspects hearing loss is to have a hearing evaluation performed by an audiologist. Francine Mitchell, AuD, is board certified by the American Board of Audiology and has more than 25 years of experience to assess hearing and balance disorders using the latest specialized equipment.

Working with Andrew K. Spongberg, MD, Hawthorn Medical's board-certified otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat physician), a decision can made about the evaluation and treatment of each patient's hearing needs. Most people with hearing impairment can benefit from the use of hearing aids. Our audiologist is knowledgeable about the latest hearing aid technology. She is able to help patients select the best suited solution for their lifestyle and listening needs.

A physician referral may be required for evaluations. It is best to check with your individual plan before scheduling an appointment. For more information about hearing loss and hearing health care, call 508-996-3991.

Additional Resources

American Academy of Audiology
World's largest professional organization with consumer information

American Tinnitus Association
National organization for tinnitus awareness, prevention, treatment

Audiology Awareness Campaign
Internet location for posting of questions for audiologists to answer

Healthy Hearing
Up-to-date news, information and resources for those interested in hearing, hearing loss treatment and hearing aids

Vestibular Disorders Association
Nonprofit organization that provides information about inner-ear balance disorders