Cochlear North America has launched the “Don’t Miss the Moments That Matter” campaign to encourage the more than 37 million Americans with hearing loss to seek professional evaluations. According to Dr. Candice Colby-Scott, a board-certified otolaryngologist and fellowship-trained neurotologist at Great Lakes Bay ENT, addressing hearing loss is essential to preventing cognitive decline and maintaining social connections during active summer months.
Why Summer Is the Ideal Time for Hearing Health
Social gatherings, family vacations, and outdoor events often highlight the challenges of untreated hearing loss, according to Dr. Colby-Scott. When individuals struggle to follow conversations in noisy environments like restaurants or family settings, they experience increased listening fatigue. This seasonal pressure serves as a practical indicator that it may be time for a professional hearing evaluation.
The Link Between Hearing Loss and Cognitive Health
Untreated hearing loss is not merely an auditory issue; it carries significant health risks. Dr. Colby-Scott reports that severe, untreated hearing loss can increase the risk of memory and thinking problems by as much as five times. Furthermore, the condition is linked to a higher incidence of falls and worsening balance issues. Hearing loss deprives the brain of necessary signals, which can diminish a person’s ability to remain mentally active and connected to their environment.
When Should Patients Consider Cochlear Implants?
Cochlear implants become a clinical consideration when traditional hearing aids no longer provide sufficient benefit for bilateral hearing loss or for those who have lost hearing in one ear. According to Dr. Colby-Scott, the evaluation process begins with audiometric testing and a clinical review of the patient’s goals.
- Evaluation: Assessment of hearing thresholds and speech understanding in noise.
- Procedure: A typically straightforward outpatient surgery.
- Activation: Occurs approximately two weeks post-surgery, followed by ongoing support from the clinic and Cochlear North America.
Planning for Long-Term Medical Compatibility
As patients evaluate their options, MRI compatibility has emerged as a vital factor in device selection. Dr. Colby-Scott emphasizes that choosing a device that minimizes barriers to future medical imaging is a key part of long-term health management. The Cochlear Nucleus Nexa System is designed to allow many MRI scans to be performed without removing the internal magnet, helping patients maintain continuity of care.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I am a candidate for a cochlear implant?
Candidates are typically those who struggle to understand speech in noise even with hearing aids, or those who have lost hearing in one ear. A consultation with a specialist like Dr. Colby-Scott can determine if you meet the specific clinical criteria.
Is the surgery for a cochlear implant complex?
Dr. Colby-Scott describes the cochlear implant procedure as a typically straightforward outpatient surgery, followed by activation of the device approximately two weeks post-surgery.
Can I still get an MRI if I have a cochlear implant?
Yes, though it depends on the device. Newer platforms, such as the Cochlear Nucleus Nexa System, are designed to remain compatible with many MRI scans without requiring the removal of the internal magnet.
Are you or a loved one struggling to keep up with conversations this summer? Visit www.cochlear.com/us to learn more about the evaluation process and find a local specialist to discuss your hearing health options.
