Free Hearing Screenings Offered May 20-21

CINCINNATI—More than 28 million Americans have some form of hearing loss, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery. It’s a common problem, but without treatment, hearing loss can have far-reaching effects on a patient’s life and well-being.

"The psychological impact of hearing loss is just as important as the actual hearing impairment,” says UC Health audiology expert Stephanie Lockhart. "Those who experience hearing loss can grow more and more isolated, even from those they live with. The ripple effect can extend to family members, friends and even co-workers.”

As part of Better Hearing and Speech Month, UC Health audiologists will offer free hearing screenings from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Thursday, May 20, and Friday, May 21, at both the West Chester and Clifton offices.

Lockhart, director of audiology in UC’s Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, says the National Council on Aging found that people with untreated hearing loss tended to have more anxiety and depression around social events, leading them to withdraw from such activities or enjoy them less.

To learn more about their hearing health, she suggests that all individuals age 45 or older get an annual hearing screening exam. The free screening exams, however, are available to anyone concerned about hearing damage or interested in learning their own hearing levels.

Screenings include a visual examination of the external auditory canals and eardrum with an otoscope. Audiologists also place headphones or small ear plugs into the patient’s ear and instruct him or her to press a button upon hearing a beeping tone.

"In addition to asking patients about their hearing history, the exam allows us to determine if the patient needs a more comprehensive test to evaluate the type and severity of their hearing loss and develop a treatment plan,” says Lockhart.

Treatment can include hearing aids and/or assistive devices for television or telephone. For some types of hearing loss, Lockhart says medical treatment, such as ear cleaning or medication, may be advised.

General warning signs of hearing loss include: frequently asking for verbal repetition when in conversation, turning the television louder than others like it, turning an ear toward sound when listening, trouble hearing on the telephone and pain or ringing in the ears.

To schedule a hearing screening, call (513) 475-8453. The UC Health Medical Arts Building in Clifton is located at 222 Piedmont Ave. The UC Physicians Medical Office Building in West Chester is located at 7700 University Court.