Because hearing impairment is so prevalent in our society, we often think we know all we need to know about hearing loss. But much of the information out there is incomplete, or just plain inaccurate. Here are four of the most common myths about hearing loss, and the real truth behind them.

Myth #1: Q-Tips Are Great For Cleaning Ears
This is just plain false. Q-tips don’t clean your ears – in fact, they push wax deeper into your ears, and this wax can harden and lead to many other health problems. Also, Q-Tips can reach as far into your ear as the eardrum, leading to the risk of puncturing your eardrum while you try to clean it. The fact is that your ears are self-cleaning, and most wax buildup will wash away with the dead skin cells that naturally slough off your ears during the day or in the shower. If you think your ears need a more thorough cleaning, talk to your doctor. Don’t try to do it yourself.

Myth #2: Vitamins and Supplements Won’t Affect My Hearing
Many people think that their hearing is what it is, and vitamins and mineral supplements won’t affect that. The truth is that many vitamins, minerals and nutrients are effective tools in combating hearing loss. Vitamins A, B complex and C strengthen your immune system and fight infection. Magnesium, potassium and zinc protect inner ear nerve cells and support nerve transmission. The antioxidants and nutrients in leafy green vegetables can help prevent or delay hearing loss.

Myth #3: Hearing Aids Won’t Help My Hearing Loss
There is a common myth out there that hearing aids won’t help with sensorineural hearing loss – hearing loss occurring from problems in the inner ear. The truth is that this is the most common type of hearing loss, and that hearing aids can help successfully treat almost 90% of these cases.

Myth #4: Hearing Aids Make Me Look Old
If you think this is true, then you haven’t seen the new hearing aids of today. Hearing aids are now small, wireless, and virtually invisible. Even those who can’t wear the undetectable models can still get hearing aids that are small, flesh-colored and very discreet. And think of it this way – no hearing aid out there is as aging as not being able to hear at all!

Our experienced audiologists can help determine your type of hearing loss, and get you fitted with the best hearing aids for you. Get yourself back into life!