How To Take Care Of Your Ears And Hearing Health

What To Know About Ear Hygiene, Auditory Health, And Taking Care Of The Hearing Organ

Many people ignore their first symptoms of hearing impairment. Unfortunately, there are many people whose hearing impairment makes their lives significantly difficult, and they still do not seek help from a specialist to help their ear health and hearing ability. 

Why Is Our Hearing Getting Worse? 

Hearing conditions deteriorates with age. It is a natural process, the intensity of which largely depends on genetic conditions and how intensely we use this organ throughout our lives. Research shows that every second person over 74 years old and every third person aged 65-74 have hearing problems. Senior citizens are the most likely to have hearing loss.

The second cause of hearing impairment is the so-called civilization noise. Its intensity is growing every year. It results from the noise of cities and all devices that surround us (television sets, headphones, computers, and smartphone alerts just to name a few). Some modern technologies have reduced noise such as electric over gas-powered machines, but others have increased noises and volume.

Factors That Increase The Risk Of Hearing Loss 

Some people are at greater risk of hearing impairment. The main factors that increase the risk of hearing loss include: 

- listening to music loudly via headphones, 

- prolonged exposure to noise, 

- hypertension, 

- diabetes and atherosclerosis, 

- obesity, 

- genetic factors, 

- injuries over the course of life. 

- fighters, wrestlers, and contact sports athletes

How To Take Care Of Our Hearing Organ 

Appropriate prophylaxis of the hearing organ is crucial to maintain its efficiency as long as possible. First of all, avoid prolonged exposure to noise. It is also good practice to lower the volume of the TV, radio, or music being listened to. If our work involves noise exposure, it is highly recommended to use ear protectors. Diseases such as rubella and meningitis also pose a risk of hearing impairment. The best way to prevent these diseases is to get vaccinated. In addition, it is crucial to diagnose a hearing impairment early so that you can take appropriate measures. 

Hearing Tests At Home 

An online hearing test is recommended for the initial diagnosis for those who do not have time to see a doctor or cannot do so. It is a tool that allows you to receive initial information about the condition of your ears. The results are not binding but provide an overview of whether or not we have any hearing problems. If an online test shows problems, it may be wise to see a doctor to have the issue examined. All that is required for the test is an internet connection, a quiet room, and headphones. Headphones will ensure good sound quality and make the test results reliable. The test can also be performed using speakers, but the results may not be as accurate. At the start of the test, the sound intensity should be adjusted as recommended. 

How Online Hearing Tests Are Performed 

First, the examined person goes through the introduction. Most often, it consists in checking the correct operation of the equipment and answering a simple question. Then the headphones emit sounds of different frequencies and intensities. It is necessary to respond to them as recommended at the start of the test. After the process is completed, the patient receives the result and recommendations for further actions. 

Hearing Health Help

As you can see, some aspects of your hearing health are out of your control while other factors can be improved. Keep this information and these tips in mind to help your hearing and ear health long-term.

Clinical Health Care Programs For Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis In Pasadena

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as motor neuron disease or Lou Gehrig's disease highly affects the elderly, mainly in men. About 15 new cases are reported daily, mostly Caucasian Americans. This condition affects the brain networks motor neuron in charge of voluntary muscle movement in the mouth, throat, chest, arms, and legs. 

If you are affected by a nerve or brain condition, seek advanced health care services from leading specialists in the field. In Pasadena ALS health care services are at Hospice and Palliative Care of California. To learn more about ALS, contact Sabri Malek, MD, and the caregiving team via a call to the office in Pasadena or book an appointment through the online tool today. 

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) 

ALS is a degenerative condition that is progressive and causes the destruction of nerve cells that manage voluntary muscle movements. "Motor neuron" cells connect the brain to the muscle they control, like the mouth, leg, throat, and chest through the spinal cord. In ALS patients, the motor neurons die, causing the muscles to waste away due to prolonged muscle inactivity. However, the mental faculties or sensory functions like sensory neurons remain healthy and unaffected. 

ALS Categories 

ALS can be classified into two categories: 

· Lower Motor Neuron Disease - Affects the nerves that emanate from the brainstem or spinal cord. 

· Upper Motor Neuron Disease - Affects the brain nerves. 

In the above instance, ALS's fatality is damage to motor neurons that die at the end. At the moment, no known treatment or cure can either stop motor neurons from damaging or from their death. 

A complex interaction theory centers the cause of ALS to be between environmental and genetic factors. Nevertheless, the risk factors that have been established include the following. 

Environmental factors such as: 

1. Exposure To Environmental Toxins – It is suggested that exposure to lead could be associated with ALS. 

2. Service In The Military – While in turn, the military servants are likely to be exposed to traumatic injuries, intense exertion, viral infections, chemicals, or metals, making veterans prone to develop ALS. 

3. Smoking – This is the most likely environmental cause for ALS, significantly affecting women, especially after menopause. 

Genetic factors include: 

1. Gender – Slightly a higher number of men than women develop ALS below 65, but the age difference dissipates after age 70. 

2. Heredity – 5 to 10 percent of ALS patients have inherited the disease, and their children have a 50 to 50 chance of getting the disease. In this case, it is referred to as familial ALS. 

3. Genetics – Studies on the human genome posit that some people with non-inherited ALS and people with ALS have genetic variation similarities. People are susceptible to ALS due to these genetic variations. 

ALS Symptoms 

Each individual living with ALS encounters different death proportions of the lower and upper motor neurons, causing variation in symptoms from one person to the next. In the early stages, you might overlook the signs because they are minor. However, there are common symptoms like cramping or twitching in hand muscles, muscle weakness in the hands, slow speech, arms, and legs impairment. 

ALS Treatment 

Treatment for ALS includes physical therapy, speech therapy, prescription medication, respiratory and nutrition support. 

In later stages, one succumbs to difficulty in swallowing and breathing. Therefore, it is essential to call or book an appointment through the online tool today.

How to Choose a Wheelchair Cushion

Roughly 90% of wheelchair users experience pain and discomfort due to their mobility devices. More than half of them have backache at least once a day, while others struggle with pressure stores. Repetitive strain injuries are common too for individuals using wheelchairs. 

The good news is, you don't have to spend thousands of dollars on a new wheelchair to get rid of aches. A quality wheelchair cushion can mitigate the effects of prolonged sitting and reduce pain. At the same time, it may improve postural alignment and provide optimal comfort. 

Depending on your needs, you can opt for honeycomb cushions, gel cushions, foam cushions, and everything in between. Gel cushions, for example, are slightly more expensive than other models but provide better stability. 

Not sure where to start with your wheelchair cushion search? Here's what you should look for in a wheelchair cushion and how to choose one that fits your lifestyle! 

Assess Your Needs 

First things first, assess your needs and determine what you want to change. 

For example, if you're struggling with pressure sores, consider choosing a wheelchair cushion that distributes your weight evenly. Ideally, look for models designed to increase airflow and decrease moisture retention. Take into account the following aspects: 

• Stability and comfort 

• Skin protection 

• Postural support 

• Cushion design and measurements 

• Frictional properties 

• User's height and weight 

• Fabrics 

• Maintenance requirements 

• Price 

A tall cushion, for instance, may provide more comfort and make it easier to grab things from hard-to-reach shelves. The downside is that can make it harder to fit your wheelchair under a desk or table. 

Consider your budget, too. Wheelchair cushions made from cheap materials may cause discomfort and increase your risk of soft tissue damage. They also tend to increase sweating, which may result in skin irritation. 

Research the Different Types of Cushions 

As mentioned earlier, wheelchair cushions can be made of gel, memory foam, polyurethane, and other materials. They also come in all shapes and sizes, from saddle-style cushions to wedge cushions. 

Take the time to research your options. Most sellers offer these models: 

• Foam cushions 

• Air cushions 

• Honeycomb cushions 

• Gel cushions 

• Coccyx seat cushions 

• Waffle-style cushions 

• Saddle-style cushions 

• Air-filled wheelchair cushions 

• Gel / foam cushions 

• Zero elevation cushions 

Foam wheelchair cushions, for example, are lightweight and distribute your body weight evenly. As a result, they may help reduce pressure on the sitting bones. These models also tend to be the least expensive. 

On the negative side, foam cushions don't last long and may lose their shape fairly quickly. Plus, this material tends to retain moisture and develop odors. 

Air and gel cushions, by comparison, have a cooling effect and offer greater pressure relief. They're also more durable and make a better choice for those with skin problems. 

If you're on the heavier side, look for an extra-large cushion. For optimal comfort, use it along with the best bariatric power wheelchair you can afford. This combo may help reduce pressure sores and aid in pain management. 

Choose a Quality Wheelchair Cushion for Optimal Comfort 

A quality wheelchair cushion is an investment in your health. It not only allows you to sit comfortably but also protects your skin and soft tissues. In the long run, it may reduce back, neck, and hip pain. 

Go online and research the different types of cushions out there for wheelchairs. Read about the wheelchair materials used and see what other consumers are saying about the products you're interested in. 

In the meantime, browse the rest of our blog for other tips on health and well-being! We'll show you how to save money on accessibility products, wheelchairs, canes, crutches, prescription medications, and so much more.