Protecting Your Hearing While Hunting, Riding Motorcycles, or Using Power Tools

Protecting Your Hearing While Hunting, Riding Motorcycles, or Using Power Tools

Your ears are exposed to loud sounds more often than you may realize. Whether you enjoy hunting, riding motorcycles, working on DIY projects, or using power tools, repeated exposure to loud noise can cause permanent hearing damage.

The good news? Hearing protection is simple, affordable, and can make a big difference in protecting your hearing for years to come.

Why Loud Noise Can Be Harmful

Inside your ears are thousands of tiny sensory cells that help you hear. When you're exposed to very loud sounds, these delicate cells can become damaged. Unlike some other cells in the body, the sensory cells responsible for hearing do not grow back once they are permanently damaged.

Noise-induced hearing loss can happen gradually from repeated exposure or suddenly from a single extremely loud sound, such as a gunshot.

You may not notice the damage right away. Over time, you might begin to experience:

• Difficulty understanding conversations

• Frequently asking people to repeat themselves

• Ringing or buzzing in your ears

• Turning the TV or radio up louder than others prefer

• Trouble hearing in restaurants or other noisy environments

• A feeling that people are mumbling

Hunting: Protect Your Ears From Gunfire

Firearms produce extremely loud impulse noises that can damage hearing almost instantly. Even occasional hunting trips can put your hearing at risk.

Always wear hearing protection when shooting. Ideally, use double hearing protection, such as foam earplugs underneath earmuffs, for additional protection.

Electronic shooting earmuffs or specialized hunting hearing protection can also be helpful because they can reduce dangerous impulse sounds while allowing you to hear conversations and environmental sounds.

And remember: hearing protection should be worn by everyone nearby—not just the person firing the gun.

Motorcycle Riding and Hearing Protection

Motorcycles can be fun and exciting, but prolonged exposure to wind noise can be surprisingly damaging to your hearing. At highway speeds, wind noise around a rider's helmet can reach levels that may contribute to hearing loss and tinnitus.

A properly fitted pair of high-fidelity earplugs can help reduce harmful wind noise while still allowing you to hear important sounds around you.

When riding, consider:

• Wearing properly fitted hearing protection

• Choosing a helmet that provides a good seal and reduces wind noise

• Taking breaks during long rides

• Avoiding unnecessarily loud exhaust systems

• Protecting your hearing consistently, not just on long trips

Power Tools and DIY Projects

From drills and circular saws to lawn equipment and shop tools, many everyday tools can produce enough noise to damage your hearing.

If you use power tools regularly, make hearing protection part of your normal safety routine.

Before turning on a loud tool, put your hearing protection on.

Depending on the noise level and length of exposure, you may want to use earplugs, earmuffs, or both. Don't forget about other loud equipment such as:

• Lawn mowers

• Leaf blowers

• Chainsaws

• Weed trimmers

• Shop vacuums

• Air compressors

Even if you're only using a tool for "a few minutes," repeated exposure can add up over time.

Choose the Right Hearing Protection

Not all hearing protection is the same. The best option depends on the activity, noise level, and how long you will be exposed.

Earplugs: Convenient and easy to carry, especially for motorcycle riding and general noise exposure.

Earmuffs: Easy to put on and remove and can provide excellent protection around power tools and shooting environments.

Double protection: Using earplugs and earmuffs together provides additional protection when you're exposed to extremely loud sounds, such as firearms or particularly noisy equipment.

For certain activities, specialized or custom hearing protection may provide a better fit and greater comfort.

Don't Ignore Ringing in Your Ears

If your ears are ringing after hunting, riding, or using power tools, that's a warning sign that you've been exposed to too much noise.

Temporary ringing or muffled hearing may improve after leaving the noisy environment, but repeated exposure can lead to permanent damage.

If you regularly experience ringing in your ears, muffled hearing, or difficulty understanding speech, consider scheduling a hearing evaluation.

Make Hearing Protection Part of Your Routine

You wear safety glasses to protect your eyes and gloves to protect your hands. Your ears deserve the same attention.

Whether you're heading out for hunting season, taking your motorcycle out for a ride, or tackling your next home improvement project, protect your hearing before the noise starts.

Your hearing is something you have for life. Taking a few simple precautions today can help you continue enjoying conversations, music, hobbies, and the sounds you love for years to come.

Have questions about hearing protection or want to find out which option is right for you? Contact our office to learn more or schedule a hearing evaluation.

📍 141 E Aurora Rd. Ste 3. Northfield, OH 44067
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

Hearing Protection Tips for DIY Projects and Yard Work

Hearing Protection Tips for DIY Projects and Yard Work

Whether you’re tackling a home improvement project, mowing the lawn, or working with power tools, it’s important to protect your hearing. Many common DIY and yard-work tools can produce loud sounds that may damage your hearing over time—or even after a single exposure to an extremely loud noise.

The good news? Hearing protection is simple, affordable, and easy to make part of your routine.

Why Hearing Protection Matters

Tools such as lawn mowers, leaf blowers, chainsaws, drills, saws, and other power equipment can produce noise levels loud enough to put your hearing at risk. Repeated exposure without protection can contribute to noise-induced hearing loss, which is often permanent.

You may not notice the effects right away. Hearing damage can develop gradually, making it easy to overlook until you begin having difficulty understanding conversations, turning up the TV, or hearing certain sounds.

Choose the Right Hearing Protection

There are two common types of hearing protection:

Earplugs: These fit inside the ear canal and are convenient, lightweight, and easy to carry with you.

Earmuffs: These fit over the ears and provide another effective option, especially when working with loud equipment.

For particularly noisy projects, wearing earplugs and earmuffs together can provide additional protection.

Protect Your Hearing During Common Yard Work

Some of the loudest tools around the house are used outdoors. Consider wearing hearing protection when using:

• Lawn mowers

• Leaf blowers

• Weed trimmers

• Chainsaws

• Hedge trimmers

• Pressure washers

Even if you only plan to use the equipment for a short period, it’s a good habit to put on hearing protection before starting.

Don’t Forget Indoor DIY Projects

Noise exposure isn’t limited to yard work. Power tools used for home repairs can also be surprisingly loud. Drills, circular saws, sanders, shop vacuums, and other equipment can create significant noise.

When possible, take breaks from noisy work and avoid running multiple loud tools at the same time.

Give Your Ears a Break

One of the simplest ways to reduce your risk is to limit the amount of time you spend around loud noise. Take regular breaks and give your ears some quiet time between projects.

If you notice ringing in your ears, muffled hearing, or a feeling of fullness after using loud equipment, consider it a warning sign that your ears may have been exposed to too much noise.

Make Hearing Protection Part of Your Routine

Hearing protection works best when you actually use it. Keep a pair of earplugs or earmuffs with your lawn and power tools so they’re always within reach. Just like safety glasses and gloves, hearing protection should be considered an essential part of your DIY safety gear.

Protect your ears today so you can continue enjoying the sounds you love for years to come.

If you have concerns about changes in your hearing or experience frequent ringing in your ears after noise exposure, schedule a hearing evaluation with a hearing professional.

📍 141 E Aurora Rd. Ste 3. Northfield, OH 44067
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

Understanding the Different Types of Hearing Loss

Understanding the Different Types of Hearing Loss

Hearing loss is more common than many people realize, and it can affect people of all ages. But did you know there are different types of hearing loss? Understanding the type and cause of hearing loss is an important first step toward finding the right treatment and improving your ability to communicate.

The Three Main Types of Hearing Loss

Hearing loss is generally classified into three main types: conductive, sensorineural, and mixed hearing loss. Each affects the hearing system differently.

1. Conductive Hearing Loss

Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound is unable to travel efficiently through the outer or middle ear to the inner ear.

Common causes include:

• Earwax buildup

• Ear infections

• Fluid in the middle ear

• A perforated eardrum

• Problems with the tiny bones of the middle ear

• Abnormal growths or blockages

Because the inner ear may still be functioning normally, conductive hearing loss can sometimes be temporary or treatable with medical intervention. Depending on the cause, treatment may include removing earwax, treating an infection, or addressing an underlying ear condition.

2. Sensorineural Hearing Loss

Sensorineural hearing loss is the most common type of permanent hearing loss. It occurs when there is damage to the inner ear, particularly the sensory cells of the cochlea, or the auditory nerve pathways that carry sound information to the brain.

Common causes include:

• Natural aging

• Long-term exposure to loud sounds

• Certain medications

• Head or ear injuries

• Certain illnesses or medical conditions

• Genetic factors

Sensorineural hearing loss often makes speech difficult to understand, particularly in noisy environments. Hearing aids are a common treatment option and can help make speech and other important sounds more accessible.

3. Mixed Hearing Loss

As the name suggests, mixed hearing loss is a combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss.

For example, someone may have permanent hearing loss related to aging or noise exposure and also experience temporary hearing loss from earwax buildup or a middle-ear problem.

Treatment depends on the causes involved. Addressing the conductive component may improve hearing, while hearing aids or other hearing technology may be recommended for the sensorineural component.

Hearing Loss Can Affect More Than Volume

Hearing loss isn't always simply about sounds becoming quieter. Some people can hear that someone is speaking but struggle to understand the words, especially when there is background noise.

You may notice that:

• People seem to mumble.

• You frequently ask others to repeat themselves.

• You have difficulty following conversations in restaurants or groups.

• You turn the television volume higher than others prefer.

• You struggle to hear someone who is speaking from another room.

• You rely heavily on lip-reading or watching someone's face.

• Certain voices or sounds seem easier to hear than others.

These can all be signs that it's time to have your hearing evaluated.

How Do You Know Which Type You Have?

A professional hearing evaluation can help determine whether hearing loss is present, what type it is, and how severe it may be. A hearing professional may evaluate your ability to hear different pitches and volumes and may also perform other tests to determine whether the issue involves the outer, middle, or inner ear.

Understanding the type of hearing loss is important because the appropriate treatment depends on the underlying cause.

Don't Ignore Changes in Your Hearing

Hearing changes can happen gradually, making them easy to overlook. Family members may notice a problem before you do, or you may simply begin adjusting your daily habits without realizing it.

If you've noticed changes in your hearing, difficulty understanding conversations, or increased difficulty hearing in noisy environments, consider scheduling a hearing evaluation.

Better hearing starts with understanding your hearing. Identifying the type and cause of hearing loss can help you take the next step toward better communication and staying connected to the people and activities that matter most.

📍 141 E Aurora Rd. Ste 3. Northfield, OH 44067
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

Why Hearing Health Matters for Overall Wellness

When we think about our overall health, we often focus on things like heart health, nutrition, exercise, and regular medical checkups. But one important part of wellness that is sometimes overlooked is hearing health.

Your hearing affects much more than your ability to hear conversations. It plays an important role in communication, relationships, independence, mental well-being, and staying connected to the world around you. Taking care of your hearing can be an important part of taking care of your overall health.

Hearing and Communication Go Hand in Hand

Hearing allows us to communicate with family, friends, coworkers, and healthcare providers. Even a mild hearing loss can make conversations more difficult, especially in restaurants, group settings, or places with background noise.

When hearing becomes challenging, people may begin asking others to repeat themselves, turning up the television, or avoiding conversations altogether. Over time, these difficulties can become frustrating and may affect relationships and social activities.

Addressing hearing concerns early can make it easier to stay engaged and communicate confidently.

Hearing Health and Mental Well-Being

Struggling to hear can be tiring. Constantly trying to fill in missed words or follow conversations requires extra effort and concentration.

For some people, untreated hearing difficulties can also lead to frustration, embarrassment, or withdrawal from social situations. Staying connected with others is an important part of emotional well-being, and good hearing can help make those connections easier.

Your Hearing Helps You Stay Independent

Hearing plays an important role in everyday safety and independence. Being able to hear alarms, doorbells, approaching vehicles, announcements, and other environmental sounds helps you remain aware of what's happening around you.

Maintaining your hearing health can also help you continue participating in the activities you enjoy, whether that's spending time with family, attending community events, enjoying music, or simply having a conversation with a friend.

Hearing Health Is Part of Preventive Care

Just as you monitor your blood pressure, vision, dental health, and other aspects of wellness, your hearing deserves regular attention.

A hearing evaluation can identify changes that you may not have noticed yourself. Hearing loss often develops gradually, making it easy to adjust to changes without realizing how much your hearing has changed.

Regular hearing checks can establish a baseline and help identify changes early.

Don't Ignore the Signs

Some common signs of hearing difficulty include:

• Frequently asking people to repeat themselves

• Having trouble understanding conversations in noisy places

• Turning the television or radio up louder than others prefer

• Feeling like people are mumbling

• Difficulty hearing on the telephone

• Avoiding restaurants, gatherings, or group conversations

• Relying heavily on lip-reading or watching people's faces

• Experiencing ringing or other sounds in your ears

If any of these sound familiar, it may be time to have your hearing checked.

Small Steps Can Make a Big Difference

Protecting your hearing doesn't have to be complicated. Limiting exposure to loud sounds, using appropriate hearing protection, keeping up with regular hearing evaluations, and addressing hearing changes when they occur can all help support long-term hearing wellness.

Most importantly, don't wait until hearing difficulties begin interfering with your daily life before seeking help. Early attention can give you more options and help you stay connected to the people and activities that matter most.

Your Hearing Is Part of Your Overall Health

Wellness is about more than simply treating problems when they arise. It's about paying attention to the different parts of your health that help you live a full, active, and connected life.

Your hearing is an important part of that picture.

If you have noticed changes in your hearing or simply haven't had your hearing checked recently, consider scheduling a hearing evaluation. A simple hearing check can be an important step toward better hearing—and better overall wellness.

📍 141 E Aurora Rd. Ste 3. Northfield, OH 44067
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

How Bluetooth Hearing Aids Make Everyday Life Easier

Hearing aids have come a long way. Today’s Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids do much more than simply make sounds louder—they can connect directly to many of the devices you already use every day, making communication, entertainment, and staying connected easier and more convenient.

Stream Audio Directly to Your Hearing Aids

One of the biggest benefits of Bluetooth hearing aids is the ability to stream audio directly from compatible devices. Whether you’re listening to music, watching television, or enjoying a podcast, sound can be delivered directly to your hearing aids.

Instead of turning the volume up for everyone in the room, you can enjoy clearer, more personalized sound at a comfortable level.

Easier Phone Conversations

Phone calls can be challenging when background noise, poor acoustics, or unclear speech make it difficult to understand the person on the other end.

With compatible Bluetooth hearing aids, phone calls can often be streamed directly to your hearing aids. This can make voices easier to hear and reduce the need to hold the phone in a specific position.

Some newer hearing aids can also work with your smartphone to provide hands-free calling, depending on the hearing aid and phone.

Connect to Your Favorite Devices

Bluetooth hearing aids can connect with more than just your smartphone. Depending on the model, you may be able to connect to tablets, computers, televisions, and other compatible devices.

This means less switching between devices and more freedom to enjoy the technology you already use.

Adjust Your Hearing Aids From Your Phone

Many modern hearing aids have companion smartphone apps that allow you to make adjustments without touching the hearing aids themselves.

You may be able to change volume, adjust listening programs, check battery levels, or make other personalized changes—all from your phone.

This can be especially helpful when you move between different environments, such as a quiet home, a busy restaurant, or an outdoor event.

Stay Connected Without Missing the Moment

Perhaps the biggest benefit of Bluetooth hearing technology is convenience. Your hearing aids can become part of your everyday technology rather than something you only think about when you need to hear better.

Whether you’re talking with family, watching your favorite show, listening to music, or taking an important phone call, Bluetooth technology can help you stay connected to the people and things that matter most.

Is Bluetooth Right for You?

Bluetooth capabilities vary between hearing aid models, smartphones, and other devices. If you’re considering new hearing aids, ask your hearing care professional about which connectivity options are compatible with your devices and fit your lifestyle.

At Cardinal Hearing Center, we’re here to help you find hearing technology that fits the way you live—not just the way you hear. Stop by or contact our office to learn more about today’s connected hearing aid options.

📍 141 E Aurora Rd. Ste 3. Northfield, OH 44067
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

What Services Can Be Done During Walk-In Hours?

Need a little help with your hearing aids? Our Walk-In Clinic makes it easy to get quick assistance without an appointment!

During walk-in hours, our team can help with a variety of common hearing aid needs, including:

• Hearing aid cleanings and basic maintenance

• Replacing domes, wax filters, and receiver wires

• Troubleshooting hearing aid issues

• Pairing your hearing aids with your phone or other devices

• Helping with Bluetooth connectivity

• Providing hearing aid supplies

• Answering questions about your hearing aids and accessories

Whether your hearing aids aren't working quite right, you need a replacement filter, or you're having trouble connecting them to your phone, we're here to help.

No appointment is necessary during our designated Walk-In Clinic hours! Stop by Cardinal Hearing Center and let us help keep your hearing aids working their best.

Walk-In Clinic Hours:
Monday: 1:00–3:00 PM
Thursday: 2:00–4:00 PM
Friday: 9:00–11:00 AM

Have questions? Give us a call at 330-468-4288. We look forward to seeing you!

📍 141 E Aurora Rd. Ste 3. Northfield, OH 44067
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

The Importance of Routine Hearing Aid Maintenance

Hearing aids are an important investment in better hearing and staying connected to the people and sounds around you. Like any technology, they perform best when they are properly cared for. Routine hearing aid maintenance can help keep your devices working reliably, improve sound quality, and potentially extend their lifespan.

Why Is Hearing Aid Maintenance Important?

Hearing aids are exposed to earwax, moisture, dust, skin oils, and everyday debris. Over time, these can build up and interfere with the microphones, receivers, speakers, and other components.

Even when your hearing aids appear to be working normally, routine maintenance can help prevent small issues from becoming bigger problems.

1. Keep Sound Clear

Earwax and debris can clog hearing aid filters, domes, and microphone openings. This may cause sounds to become weak, muffled, distorted, or quieter than usual.

Regular cleaning and replacement of filters and domes can help your hearing aids deliver the sound they were designed to provide.

2. Prevent Common Problems

Many hearing aid problems are caused by something simple, such as a clogged filter, dirty microphone, low battery, or moisture buildup. Routine care can help identify these issues early and reduce unexpected problems.

If your hearing aid suddenly seems quieter or isn't working properly, maintenance should be one of the first things to consider.

3. Protect Your Investment

Hearing aids can be a significant investment. Proper care can help protect that investment by reducing unnecessary wear and keeping your devices functioning properly.

While routine maintenance cannot prevent every repair, taking good care of your hearing aids may help them last longer.

4. Maintain Comfort

Domes, tubing, and other parts that come into contact with your ear can collect debris over time. Keeping these components clean and replacing them when necessary can help maintain a comfortable fit.

Your hearing care professional can also check whether your hearing aids are still fitting properly and make adjustments when needed.

Simple Hearing Aid Maintenance Tips

A few simple habits can make a big difference:

• Clean your hearing aids regularly using the cleaning tools recommended by your hearing care professional.

• Check your domes and filters for wax or debris and replace them as needed.

• Keep your hearing aids dry. Remove them before showering, swimming, or using products such as hairspray.

• Store them properly when you're not wearing them, preferably in a safe, dry location.

• Check rechargeable devices regularly and keep the charger and charging contacts clean.

• Schedule professional cleanings so your hearing care provider can inspect the devices and address problems you may not be able to see.

Don't Ignore Changes in Performance

If your hearing aids aren't sounding as clear or loud as they normally do, don't simply assume the devices are wearing out. A professional cleaning or minor adjustment may be all that's needed.

Your hearing care provider can inspect the hearing aids, clean hard-to-reach areas, replace worn components, and make sure the devices are functioning properly.

Make Maintenance Part of Your Routine

Just like changing the oil in your car or scheduling regular dental cleanings, hearing aid maintenance is an important part of protecting your investment. A few minutes of regular care can help you get the most out of your hearing aids and enjoy more consistent performance.

Need help with your hearing aids? Cardinal Hearing Center is here to help with hearing aid cleanings, troubleshooting, supplies, and other routine maintenance needs. Contact our office or stop by during our Walk-In Clinic hours to keep your hearing aids performing their best!

📍 141 E Aurora Rd. Ste 3. Northfield, OH 44067
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

Rechargeable vs. Disposable Hearing Aid Batteries: Which Is Right for You?

When it comes to hearing aids, one of the most common questions patients have is: Should I choose rechargeable hearing aids or hearing aids that use disposable batteries?

Both options have their advantages, and the best choice depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and hearing needs. Here’s what you should know before making your decision.

🔋 Rechargeable Hearing Aids

Rechargeable hearing aids have become increasingly popular because of their convenience. Instead of replacing batteries regularly, you simply place your hearing aids in their charger when you're finished wearing them for the day.

Benefits of rechargeable hearing aids:

• Convenient: Simply place your hearing aids in the charger overnight.

• No frequent battery changes: You don't have to keep track of small disposable batteries.

• Easy to use: They can be especially helpful for people who have difficulty handling small batteries.

• Less waste: Rechargeable devices eliminate the need to regularly dispose of used batteries.

• Great for busy lifestyles: Charging can easily become part of your daily routine.

Many modern rechargeable hearing aids can provide enough power to last through a full day of typical use, although battery life can vary depending on the hearing aid, settings, streaming, and how frequently you use features such as Bluetooth.

🪫 Disposable Hearing Aid Batteries

Traditional hearing aids may use small zinc-air disposable batteries. These batteries are typically available in different sizes, with size 10, 13, 312, and 675 being the most common.

Benefits of disposable batteries:

• Easy to replace: Simply carry a few spare batteries with you in case you need them.

• No charging required: You can continue using your hearing aids as long as you have replacement batteries available.

• Convenient for travel: You don't have to worry about finding an electrical outlet or remembering a charger.

• Long-term flexibility: If your hearing aid battery runs out, replacing it takes just a few minutes.

For people who travel frequently, spend extended periods away from home, or simply prefer not to charge their devices, disposable batteries may still be a great option.

⚖️ Rechargeable vs. Disposable: Which Should You Choose?

There isn't one option that's right for everyone.

Rechargeable hearing aids may be a better fit if you:

• Want a simple, low-maintenance routine

• Don't want to handle tiny batteries

• Prefer charging your devices overnight

• Stream frequently from your phone or other devices

Disposable batteries may be a better fit if you:

• Travel frequently or spend time away from electrical outlets

• Want the ability to quickly replace a dead battery

• Prefer not to rely on charging

• Like keeping extra batteries on hand for emergencies

What About Battery Life?

Battery life varies based on the hearing aid model, battery type, amount of hearing aid use, and how much you stream. Rechargeable hearing aids generally need to be charged every day, while disposable batteries may last anywhere from several days to a couple of weeks depending on the battery size and usage.

Your hearing care professional can help you determine which option will provide the best combination of convenience, reliability, and performance for your lifestyle.

💙 We're Here to Help!

Choosing between rechargeable and disposable batteries is just one of the many decisions that comes with selecting hearing aids. At Cardinal Hearing Center, we can help you compare your options and find hearing technology that fits your needs and everyday routine.

Have questions about hearing aid batteries or considering a new set of hearing aids? Contact Cardinal Hearing Center or stop by our office—we're happy to help!

📍 141 E Aurora Rd. Ste 3. Northfield, OH 44067
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

Tips for Adjusting to New Hearing Aids

Getting new hearing aids is an exciting step toward hearing better and staying connected with the people and moments you love. Like any new experience, it can take a little time for your brain to adjust to hearing sounds you may not have noticed in a while. Don't worry—this is completely normal!

1. Wear Them Every Day

The best way to adjust is to wear your hearing aids consistently. Start by wearing them for several hours each day and gradually increase your wear time until you can comfortably use them all day.

2. Start in Quiet Environments

Begin by listening in familiar, quiet places like your home. Once you feel more comfortable, slowly introduce busier settings such as restaurants, family gatherings, or shopping centers.

3. Be Patient with New Sounds

You may notice sounds like footsteps, running water, birds chirping, or the hum of appliances more than before. These sounds have likely always been there—your brain is simply relearning how to process them.

4. Practice Conversations

Spend time talking with family and friends in different environments. The more you listen and engage in conversation, the faster your brain adapts to your new hearing experience.

5. Don't Hesitate to Ask for Help

If something doesn't sound quite right or your hearing aids feel uncomfortable, contact your hearing care provider. Small adjustments can make a big difference in your comfort and hearing success.

We're Here to Help

Adjusting to hearing aids is a journey, and you don't have to do it alone. At Cardinal Hearing Center, we're committed to helping you get the most from your hearing aids. Whether you need a quick adjustment, cleaning, or have questions about your devices, our team is always happy to help.

Better hearing takes time—but with patience, practice, and the right support, you'll be enjoying clearer conversations and everyday sounds before you know it!

Getting used to new hearing aids is a process, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At Cardinal Hearing Center, our team is here to support you every step of the way—from your first fitting to ongoing adjustments and care.

If you recently received hearing aids or are struggling to adjust to your current devices, stop by our office or visit our Walk-In Clinic for help with cleanings, troubleshooting, pairing, and general hearing aid questions. We’re here to help you hear your best and stay connected to the moments that matter most!

Contact Cardinal Hearing Center today to schedule an appointment or stop in—we’d love to help you get the most out of your hearing experience.

📍 141 E Aurora Rd. Ste 3. Northfield, OH 44067
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

 Back to School Hearing Tips for Children and Parents

As a new school year begins, parents are busy shopping for supplies, organizing schedules, and making sure their children are ready to succeed. While vision screenings and school physicals are often part of the back-to-school routine, hearing health is another important factor that can directly impact a child’s learning, communication, and confidence in the classroom.

Even mild hearing difficulties can make it harder for children to follow instructions, participate in discussions, or keep up with their classmates. The good news is that parents can take simple steps to help protect and support their child’s hearing throughout the school year.

Watch for Signs of Hearing Difficulty

Children may not always realize they are having trouble hearing, and many will not complain about it. Parents and teachers should watch for signs that may indicate a child is struggling with their hearing, including:

• Frequently asking “what?” or asking for things to be repeated

• Turning up the volume on TVs, tablets, or headphones

• Difficulty following directions or instructions

• Sitting very close to screens or speakers

• Trouble hearing in noisy environments

• Speaking louder than expected

• Complaints that sounds are muffled or unclear

• Falling behind academically or appearing distracted

These signs do not always mean a child has hearing loss, but they may be a reason to schedule a hearing evaluation.

Schedule a Hearing Checkup

A child’s hearing can change over time due to ear infections, allergies, fluid buildup, noise exposure, or other conditions. Routine hearing screenings can help identify concerns early before they affect school performance.

A comprehensive hearing evaluation with an audiologist can provide a clearer picture of your child’s hearing health and determine whether additional support is needed.

Protect Little Ears From Loud Sounds

Children today are exposed to more noise than ever before through headphones, gaming systems, concerts, sporting events, and personal devices. Repeated exposure to loud sounds can contribute to permanent hearing damage.

Help protect your child’s hearing by encouraging safe listening habits:

• Follow the 60/60 rule: keep device volume around 60% or lower and limit listening time to about 60 minutes before taking a break.

• Use noise-limiting headphones designed for children.

• Encourage breaks from headphones and earbuds.

• Use hearing protection during loud activities such as sporting events, concerts, fireworks, or marching band performances.

Create a Hearing-Friendly Study Environment

A quiet and comfortable learning environment can make homework and studying easier, especially for children who have difficulty hearing in background noise.

Consider:

• Reducing background noise from TVs or other devices

• Making sure your child can clearly see your face when speaking

• Using good lighting so facial expressions and lip movements are easier to see

• Keeping communication clear and direct

For children with hearing loss, classroom accommodations such as preferential seating, assistive listening technology, or additional support from school staff may also improve their learning experience.

Encourage Children to Speak Up About Their Hearing

Children should feel comfortable telling parents, teachers, or caregivers when something does not sound right. Let them know it is okay to ask questions, request repetition, or ask for help when they need it.

Supporting open communication helps children feel confident advocating for their own hearing needs.

Don’t Ignore Ear Complaints

If your child complains about ear pain, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), pressure, muffled hearing, or difficulty understanding speech, it is important to have those concerns evaluated. Early attention can help prevent small issues from becoming bigger challenges.

Start the School Year With Healthy Hearing Habits

Good hearing plays an important role in a child’s ability to learn, communicate, and connect with others. By paying attention to possible warning signs, protecting hearing from loud sounds, and scheduling regular hearing checks, parents can help set their children up for a successful school year.

If you have concerns about your child’s hearing, consider scheduling a hearing evaluation with a hearing professional. A simple hearing check today can make a big difference in your child’s confidence and classroom success tomorrow.

📍 141 E Aurora Rd. Ste 3. Northfield, OH 44067
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

Can Stress Affect Tinnitus?

If you've ever noticed that the ringing, buzzing, or humming in your ears seems louder during stressful times, you're not imagining it. While stress doesn't typically cause tinnitus on its own, it can make existing tinnitus more noticeable and bothersome. Understanding the connection between stress and tinnitus can help you better manage both.

What Is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is the perception of sound without an external source. People often describe it as:

• Ringing

• Buzzing

• Hissing

• Roaring

• Clicking

• Whistling

For some, tinnitus is a mild annoyance. For others, it can interfere with concentration, sleep, and overall quality of life.

How Does Stress Affect Tinnitus?

When you're stressed, your body enters its "fight-or-flight" response. This causes the release of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, increasing your heart rate and making your brain more alert.

Unfortunately, this heightened state of awareness can also make your brain pay more attention to tinnitus. As a result:

• The ringing may seem louder.

• You may notice it more often.

• It can become harder to ignore.

• Sleep may become more difficult.

This often creates a frustrating cycle:

Stress increases tinnitus → tinnitus becomes more noticeable → increased frustration and anxiety → even more stress.

Breaking this cycle is an important part of tinnitus management.

Can Tinnitus Cause Stress?

Absolutely.

Many people who develop tinnitus experience emotional reactions such as:

• Anxiety

• Frustration

• Irritability

• Difficulty concentrating

• Depression

• Trouble sleeping

Living with constant noise can be exhausting, especially when it interferes with daily activities or restful sleep. This is why addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of tinnitus is so important.

Tips to Help Manage Stress-Related Tinnitus

While there isn't a universal cure for tinnitus, there are several strategies that may reduce its impact.

Practice Relaxation Techniques

Deep breathing, meditation, yoga, and mindfulness exercises can help calm your nervous system and reduce stress levels.

Stay Active

Regular physical activity improves circulation, reduces stress hormones, and boosts mood. Even a daily walk can make a difference.

Prioritize Sleep

Fatigue often makes tinnitus seem worse. Try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule and create a quiet, relaxing bedtime routine.

Use Background Sound

Soft music, a fan, white noise machine, or nature sounds can help mask tinnitus, especially at bedtime.

Limit Stress Triggers

Whenever possible, identify situations that increase your stress and develop healthy coping strategies.

Protect Your Hearing

Avoid prolonged exposure to loud noises and wear hearing protection when appropriate. Preventing additional hearing damage may help keep tinnitus from worsening.

When Should You See an Audiologist?

If tinnitus is persistent, worsening, or interfering with your daily life, it's a good idea to schedule a hearing evaluation.

An audiologist can:

• Check for hearing loss

• Identify possible underlying causes

• Discuss treatment and management options

• Recommend hearing aids or sound therapy if appropriate

• Provide education and resources to help you manage symptoms

In many cases, treating hearing loss can also reduce the perception of tinnitus.

You're Not Alone

Tinnitus affects millions of people, and while stress can make it feel more overwhelming, there are effective ways to manage both. Learning healthy stress-management techniques and seeking professional guidance can make a significant difference in your comfort and quality of life.

If you've been experiencing persistent ringing or buzzing in your ears, don't ignore it. A comprehensive hearing evaluation is the first step toward understanding what's causing your symptoms and finding solutions that work for you.

Schedule a Hearing Evaluation

At Cardinal Hearing Center, we're committed to helping patients better understand and manage tinnitus. Whether your symptoms are new or you've been living with tinnitus for years, our team can evaluate your hearing, answer your questions, and discuss personalized treatment options.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward better hearing and greater peace of mind.

📍 141 E Aurora Rd. Ste 3. Northfield, OH 44067
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com