New Study Shows Some Hearing Loss May Be Reversible
New Orleans, LA (PRWEB) August 28, 2013 -- There may be hope for those who rely on hearing aids for mild to moderate hearing loss. Researchers have found evidence that suggests some forms of hearing loss related to ear injuries may not be permanent.
According to a new study from the Stanford University School of Medicine published on 7/1/2013, aural sensory injuries from explosions or other loud sounds do not always cause structural damage to the cochlear, an important part of the inner ear. By studying mice in their labs, researchers discovered that damage associated with sudden loud sounds more commonly affected the hair and nerve cells, the parts of the ear that translate sounds. While there is currently no treatment to help heal damaged hair and nerve cells, the research team will continue their study in efforts to find ways to reverse this damage.
"As a company dedicated to furthering the advancement of new hearing aids and hearing technology, we are excited to learn about new medical innovations to help reverse damage, " said Roger Juneau, president of General Hearing Instruments, Inc. "Until this new treatment becomes a reality, we're here to continue to help people overcome any aural deficiencies."
The study at Stanford was primarily funded by the Department of Defense and focused heavily on the impact of explosive devices that some soldiers might encounter in the field. John Oglalai, the study's senior author, pointed out that many things can cause temporary hearing loss. Fireworks, airbags, and other similar sounds can cause the same kind of damage to the ear, making this study applicable not only to soldiers in the field, but to anyone who has experienced this kind of damage. The research team feels confident that with further study into this area of otolaryngology, they should be able to start treating patients within the next two years.
While these new studies show great improvements for mild to moderate hearing loss, hearing aids will still need to be used before treatments are offered. There are also some injuries that are beyond the scope of the treatments that could result from this study, particularly irreversible damage caused by structural damage to the cochlear. Patients with serious damage will continue to require hearing aids.
General Hearing Instruments provides non-prescription devices for mild to moderate hearing loss. They are a US-based manufacturing company, operating since 1985. In addition to designing hearing aids, GHI also develops tinnitus therapy devices and other hearing related products, fund research projects.
“We are happy to hear that the Department of Defense is funding research projects like these,” said Juneau. “In addition to our commitment to our clients, we are proud to support the US armed forces. We have built strong relationships with Veterans Affairs, and advocacy group for American Veterans and are proud to supply hearing devices to those who have served.”
Prospective retailers and customers can visit http://www.generalhearing.com for more information about products, services, and more. The website is designed to educate consumers and connect them with a professional audiologists in their area. General Hearing Instruments, Inc. can be contacted by phone at 504-733-3767 or by mail at 175 Brookhollow Esplanade in Harahan, LA, 70123-5101.
About General Hearing Instruments, Inc.
General Hearing Instruments, Inc., is a Harahan, LA, company that proudly manufactures hearing aids and tinnitus devices with top quality acoustics, design, technology, and craftsmanship at an affordable price.
Lane Zeringue, http://www.generalhearing.com/, 1-800-824-3021, [email protected]
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