Shep Talk

Hearing loss is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide, and its causes, progression, and impact can vary from person to person. One crucial question often arises: do both ears experience the same hearing loss? Understanding whether hearing loss affects both ears equally is important for diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management. In this article, we will explore the different factors that influence hearing loss, how it may impact each ear, and what this means for treatment options.

Types of Hearing Loss

Before delving into whether both ears experience the same hearing loss, it’s important to understand the different types of hearing loss. There are three primary categories:

1. Sensorineural Hearing Loss: This type is caused by damage to the inner ear (cochlea) or the auditory nerve. It is typically permanent and often age-related.
2. Conductive Hearing Loss: This occurs when sound waves are blocked from reaching the inner ear. It can be caused by ear infections, fluid in the ear, or a perforated eardrum. This type of hearing loss is often treatable with medical or surgical interventions.
3. Mixed Hearing Loss: This type combines both sensorineural and conductive hearing loss and can be more complex to treat.

Asymmetrical Hearing Loss: The Difference Between Ears

In many cases, hearing loss does not affect both ears equally. Asymmetrical hearing loss refers to a condition where one ear experiences a greater degree of hearing loss than the other. This can occur for several reasons:

1. Different Causes in Each Ear

Hearing loss may be caused by different factors affecting each ear. For instance, one ear may be more prone to infections or injury, while the other remains unaffected. Noise exposure can also contribute to asymmetrical hearing loss, particularly if a person has been exposed to loud sounds or music more on one side.

2. Age-Related Hearing Loss (Presbycusis)

Age-related hearing loss generally affects both ears, but the extent of the damage can differ. As people age, the hair cells in the cochlea, responsible for transmitting sound signals to the brain, naturally degrade. However, it is not uncommon for one ear to experience more significant hearing loss than the other. Environmental factors, genetics, and lifestyle choices can all influence the rate at which this occurs in each ear.

3. Ear Infections or Injuries

Conductive hearing loss can result from infections or physical trauma. If an infection occurs in one ear, it may lead to temporary or permanent hearing loss in that ear. For example, otitis media (middle ear infection) is a common cause of hearing loss in children, often affecting only one ear.

4. Tinnitus and Cochlear Damage

Another factor that can lead to asymmetrical hearing loss is tinnitus, a ringing or buzzing sound in the ears. Tinnitus often accompanies sensorineural hearing loss and can affect one ear more than the other. Damage to the cochlea, possibly due to loud noise exposure, can also result in uneven hearing loss between the two ears.

The Impact of Asymmetrical Hearing Loss

Asymmetrical hearing loss can have significant effects on a person’s ability to hear and process sound. When one ear is more affected than the other, it can create difficulties in understanding speech, especially in noisy environments. The brain relies on both ears to locate sound sources and to differentiate between sounds. When one ear has a reduced capacity to hear, it can become harder to determine the direction of sound, a phenomenon known as binaural hearing.

People with asymmetrical hearing loss may also experience difficulty in hearing in certain situations, such as group conversations or when there is background noise. They might find it harder to concentrate, leading to increased fatigue, social withdrawal, or even feelings of isolation.

Diagnosing and Treating Asymmetrical Hearing Loss

When both ears do not experience the same level of hearing loss, a thorough diagnosis is essential to understand the underlying causes. A hearing test performed by an audiologist is the most reliable method of assessing the degree of hearing loss in each ear.

1. Audiogram

An audiogram is a test that measures the ability to hear various sounds at different frequencies and intensities. The results will indicate whether the hearing loss is symmetrical or asymmetrical, and whether it is caused by a conductive or sensorineural issue.

2. Medical and Surgical Interventions

For individuals with conductive hearing loss in one ear, medical treatments such as antibiotics for infections, surgery to repair a perforated eardrum, or a hearing aid may help restore hearing in that ear. For sensorineural hearing loss, treatment options may include hearing aids, cochlear implants, or other assistive listening devices.

If you’re seeking professional guidance and support, Melbourne Audiology Centre offers comprehensive hearing tests and tailored treatment plans to help manage hearing loss, ensuring that each ear receives the appropriate care and intervention.

3. Hearing Aids and Cochlear Implants

In cases where one ear has a greater degree of hearing loss, hearing aids or cochlear implants may be used to amplify sound in the affected ear, allowing for better hearing balance between both ears. These devices can significantly improve quality of life by restoring a sense of hearing in the affected ear, though they may not fully reverse the loss.

For personalised hearing solutions, the Templestowe Hearing Clinic offers expert advice on the best hearing aids and cochlear implants tailored to your needs, ensuring optimal outcomes for those with asymmetrical hearing loss.

Managing Asymmetrical Hearing Loss

While both ears may not experience the same level of hearing loss, there are several strategies to manage asymmetrical hearing loss effectively:

1. Using Hearing Aids in Both Ears: Even if one ear has more severe hearing loss, using hearing aids in both ears can help maintain balance in sound perception. This is known as binaural amplification.
2. Assistive Listening Devices: In certain cases, directional microphones or FM systems may be used to help improve hearing in noisy environments by focusing sound from a particular direction.
3. Coping Strategies: Developing strategies to cope with hearing loss, such as maintaining eye contact, lip-reading, or using visual cues, can improve communication in everyday situations.

Conclusion

The answer to whether both ears experience the same hearing loss is, in many cases, no. Asymmetrical hearing loss is a common occurrence and can be caused by various factors such as age, injury, infections, and exposure to noise. It is important to seek professional advice if you suspect hearing loss in one or both ears, as early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve quality of life. With the right treatment, individuals with asymmetrical hearing loss can continue to enjoy a fulfilling life with proper hearing aids, cochlear implants, or other assistive devices.

If you’re experiencing hearing loss, it’s crucial to consult with a qualified audiologist or ENT specialist who can provide tailored advice and solutions to help manage your condition effectively.

Following significant weight loss, many individuals face a new challenge: excess skin that remains after shedding pounds. This surplus skin can lead to discomfort, restrict clothing choices, and hinder physical activities. Beyond aesthetic concerns, it can cause practical issues like skin irritation and infection due to trapped moisture. Addressing loose, sagging skin often requires a combination of non-invasive treatments such as radio frequency and surgical procedures like body lifts or abdominoplasty.

Here’s an exploration into the reasons behind excess skin and the surgical interventions aimed at enhancing both appearance and comfort post-weight loss.

Weight Loss

Loose skin can be a major challenge after significant weight loss. Many patients struggle with this issue as they attempt to enjoy the benefits of their healthy lifestyle changes by embracing the thinner, lighter body they deserve. Unfortunately, this excess skin prevents them from showing off their accomplishments and may cause discomfort.

Excess skin can make it challenging to wear clothing and may chafe and irritate the skin. Infections can also develop when perspiration gets trapped in the folds of loose skin. The lack of comfort can hinder the ability to exercise, which is essential to long-term success in weight management.

Non-invasive treatments, such as skin-tightening procedures like radio frequency, ultrasound, and needling, can help to tighten the skin for a smoother appearance. These methods are usually well-tolerated and provide gradual results. In some cases, surgical solutions are required to remove the redundant skin. This can include a lower body lift (also known as a panniculectomy) to remove the apron of extra skin that hangs below your belly button or a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty).

Patients who undergo a surgical procedure for excess skin should be at or near their ideal weight and have maintained a stable weight for several months before their surgery. Ideally, they will be non-smokers and free of any conditions that could affect healing.

Hormonal Changes

If you lose a lot of weight, especially after bariatric surgery, hormonal changes can cause sagging in certain areas of the body. In some cases, this is not a problem, but in other situations, it can be a reason to consider excess skin removal and/or body lift surgery.

One of the best ways to determine if you have loose skin is to perform a pinch test. If you can pinch more than an inch of fat, you likely have loose skin. The other type of fat, visceral fat, is dense and packed tightly around the organs and not easily pinched.

Excess skin can affect your confidence and make it difficult to wear certain types of clothing. It can also increase your risk of skin infections, skin rashes, and other health issues. A plastic surgeon like Associate Professor Dean White can perform one or more procedures that remove excess skin and tighten the remaining tissue to give you a sleeker, more toned appearance.

Some of these include a lower body lift (tummy tuck) to remove excess skin and fat from the stomach and buttocks; panniculectomy to remove an apron of excess skin on the stomach called a pannus that can hang down over the genitals and onto the thighs; arm lift (Brachioplasty) to tighten arms; breast lift (mastopexy) to firm up or reduce size; and neck lift (rhytidectomy) to improve sagging cheeks and a double chin.

Pregnancy

A woman’s body goes through a lot of changes during pregnancy. In some cases, the skin can stretch and lose its elasticity due to weight fluctuations and hormonal changes during this time. As a result, it may take some time for the skin to return to its pre-pregnancy tightness. In this case, a body lift can help to reduce excess skin in the arms, breasts, and torso.

Those who experience this condition often find that non-invasive treatments such as radio frequency, ultrasound, chemical peels, and needling can improve the skin’s elasticity and give it a more toned appearance. However, for those who are experiencing more severe sagging, surgical intervention is typically needed to achieve a more defined body contour.

A body lift is a procedure that removes excess fat and tightens the remaining skin to give it a more sculpted form. This is usually done in conjunction with liposuction to enhance results. It can be performed on the lower and upper body, including the abdomen, buttocks, and inner thighs. It can also be performed on the chest (abdominoplasty) to tighten loose muscles and remove an apron of excess skin (also known as panniculectomy).

Prospective patients for this surgery should be healthy enough to undergo a surgical procedure and be at or close to their ideal body weight. In addition, they must be willing to commit to wearing compression garments for a minimum of three weeks. Patients should also be prepared to avoid strenuous activities for the first six weeks after treatment to minimise swelling and promote faster recovery.

Ageing

Ageing affects the body in various ways, often resulting in loose or sagging skin, especially after significant weight loss. If you’ve lost a substantial amount of weight and are nearing your ideal body weight, you might consider cosmetic surgery to address these concerns.

Unlike temporary solutions, such as non-invasive treatments, cosmetic surgery like a body lift offers more enduring outcomes. However, it’s essential to note that maintaining results requires dedication to a healthy lifestyle, including proper diet and regular exercise, as weight regain can occur post-surgery.

A body lift procedure encompasses several techniques aimed at tightening and contouring the skin. Liposuction may be used to remove excess fat, enhancing the overall shape and helping to minimise visible incisions. These incisions are strategically placed in natural skin creases or areas easily concealed by clothing or hair, minimising noticeable scarring.

Included in a body lift can be a rhytidectomy, focusing on removing excess skin from the neck to rejuvenate its appearance. Often combined with a neck lift for comprehensive results, this addresses signs of ageing around the neck area. Additionally, procedures like a lower body lift or thigh lift are performed to reduce excess skin in specific areas, like the abdomen and inner thighs, respectively. These surgeries typically require several hours and necessitate hospital stay for monitoring.

In the context of ageing, these procedures aim not only to enhance physical appearance but also to restore a more youthful contour by addressing skin laxity and excess tissue that can result from natural ageing processes or significant weight fluctuations.

In conclusion, addressing excess skin after significant weight loss requires a tailored approach that may involve both non-invasive treatments and surgical procedures like body lifts. These interventions aim not only to improve aesthetic appearance but also to enhance comfort and quality of life. Whether considering a tummy tuck to remove excess skin or a comprehensive body lift for a more sculpted physique, individuals should consult with qualified professionals to explore their options and ensure they are well-prepared for the recovery process ahead. By choosing the right course of action, patients can achieve the smoother, toned look they desire, marking a positive milestone in their weight loss journey.

Podiatrists treat a wide range of muscle, bone and tendon conditions that affect the feet and ankles. They often consult with physiotherapists when they suspect a pathological gait pattern is caused by something higher up in the body such as the knee, hip or spine.

Having both health professionals in the same appointment allows for a comprehensive assessment of your condition from the start. This results in better treatment outcomes and reduced reliance on pain medications.

Physiotherapy

Podiatry and physiotherapy are two healthcare professions that play a crucial role in the management of musculoskeletal conditions. Both offer personalized assessments, diagnoses and treatments for a wide range of foot and ankle conditions as well as other broader musculoskeletal conditions such as back pain. However, they differ in terms of their scopes of practice, expertise, treatment approaches and referral requirements.

Physiotherapists at Toowoomba physiotherapy clinic are skilled in using manual therapy interventions to alleviate pain and improve muscle flexibility, strength, and mobility. They can also provide valuable education on proper body mechanics and injury prevention strategies.

Podiatrist Toowoomba is a medical professional who specializes in diagnosing, treating and preventing conditions related to the feet, ankles and lower legs. They use a variety of tools such as syringes to administer pain medications, nail splitters and nail anvils for ingrown toenails, scalpels and cryotherapy equipment to freeze off plantar warts.

A physiotherapist will assess the biomechanical function of the lower leg and hip muscles and the joints in your foot and ankle to identify the root cause of your pain and develop an appropriate treatment plan. They may recommend arch supports or orthotics, shoe advice and a programme of stretching exercises to help reduce the symptoms of shin splints. In addition, they can help you build up the muscles and ligaments in your foot and ankle by providing you with a program of progressive resistance exercises.

Podiatry

Podiatrists are trained to assess and treat a wide range of foot and ankle conditions. They can provide custom orthotic inserts to support the feet and lower limbs, redistribute pressure, enhance shock absorption, and correct imbalances that can contribute to injury.

In addition, podiatrists can help you develop a comprehensive exercise program that will increase the strength and flexibility of your feet and ankles to decrease the likelihood of future injuries. For example, if you have an abnormal walking pattern that leads to poor biomechanics of the foot and ankle, such as overpronation, a podiatrist can teach you exercises to prevent this from happening again.

Our co-founders, PhysioPod founders Lauren Earles and Luke Bertram have discovered that combining the expertise of both a physiotherapist and a podiatrist in one initial appointment achieves optimal outcomes. This is the concept behind the Collective Body Consult.

A physiotherapist and podiatrist are both highly specialised healthcare professionals that work together to improve musculoskeletal health and function in the feet and ankles. They have different areas of focus but are both important members of your healthcare team. Understanding their differing roles can help you decide which healthcare professional you should see when managing your musculoskeletal conditions.

Collaborative Care

The collaborative care model involves two healthcare professionals who specialize in different areas of the body working together. This allows each profession to share their expertise and treatment approaches without competing for patients. The two professions have a shared goal of improving patient outcomes. This approach to healthcare is becoming increasingly popular in the US and other countries. It also reflects current health policy encouraging “one-stop-shop” services that meet patient demand at the point of contact.

Podiatrists often refer to physical therapists for foot and ankle problems. This ensures that each professional provides a complete and comprehensive assessment of the problem. In addition, it eliminates the need for patients to receive a referral from their primary care physician.

Physiotherapists are trained to assess and treat the entire musculoskeletal system using a wide range of techniques including targeted exercises, stretches and manual techniques such as joint manipulation and dry needling. This enables them to identify whether the pain is caused by an imbalance of muscles or movement patterns in other parts of the body.

In a recent randomized clinical trial, participants were referred to either their podiatrist or to both their podiatrist and a physical therapist. The physical therapists followed up with patients as recommended by the podiatrist and sent progress notes to the podiatrist before each follow-up appointment. The results of this study showed that the uPOD+PT group had a faster response to treatment than the uPOD only group.

Preventive Care

Physiotherapists are trained to assess and treat the entire musculoskeletal system, including joints and the feet. They are also able to design preventive exercises and techniques to strengthen specific muscles, improve flexibility, and enhance mobility, reducing the risk of future injury. They often incorporate these strategies into their care plans for patients with foot and ankle injuries.

Unlike podiatrists, physiotherapists are able to identify and treat pathological gait patterns that are caused by musculoskeletal problems such as excessive load on one side of the body (hip hiking) during swing phase or an excessive heel strike in stance phase. They can then prescribe biomechanical devices such as functional orthotics to modify the angles of movement in the lower extremity which will reduce the load on certain tendons, bones and other structures.

During the study, participants with a primary diagnosis of plantar fasciitis will be randomized to receive usual podiatric care (uPOD) or uPOD+PT treatment. Participants in the uPOD group will receive care consistent with current practice guidelines for this condition, which includes foot taping/padding, home stretching exercise instructions, over-the-counter arch support and heel cup, shoe recommendations, oral anti-inflammatories and corticosteroid injections as necessary. Participants in the uPOD+PT treatment group will receive this care plus physical therapy. All participants will be followed for 6 months for the primary outcome measure of change in their FAAM activities-of-daily living score and secondary outcomes including NPRS and patient-reported success.

In the realm of healthcare, interdisciplinary collaboration is increasingly recognized as essential for comprehensive patient care. One such collaboration that is gaining traction is the integration of clinical psychology with podiatry services, particularly concerning patients’ mental health. While podiatrists primarily focus on diagnosing and treating foot and ankle conditions, they often encounter patients whose physical ailments are intertwined with psychological challenges. Recognizing this intersection, clinical psychologists are playing a pivotal role in enhancing podiatry services, ensuring that patients receive holistic care that addresses both their physical and mental well-being.

Understanding the Interconnection

The relationship between physical health and mental health is profound and reciprocal. Chronic foot conditions, such as diabetic neuropathy, arthritis, or chronic pain, can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life, mobility, and independence. These physical ailments often lead to psychological distress, including anxiety, depression, or even feelings of isolation and frustration.

Conversely, mental health issues can exacerbate physical symptoms, leading to a vicious cycle of pain and psychological distress. Patients may experience heightened stress levels, which can increase muscle tension, worsen pain perception, and impede healing processes. Additionally, mental health disorders may contribute to poor self-care habits, such as neglecting foot hygiene or failing to adhere to treatment plans, further compromising podiatric outcomes.

The Role of Clinical Psychologists

Clinical psychologists are uniquely positioned to address the psychological aspects of foot care comprehensively. By collaborating with podiatrists, they can provide tailored interventions that target both the physical and mental dimensions of patients’ health. Here’s how clinical psychologists enhance podiatry services:

1. Psychological Assessment: Clinical psychologists conduct thorough assessments to evaluate patients’ mental health status, identify underlying psychological factors contributing to their foot conditions, and assess their coping mechanisms and support systems.
2. Psychoeducation: Patients often benefit from psychoeducation sessions, where clinical psychologists provide information about the relationship between physical and mental health, pain management techniques, relaxation exercises, and strategies to improve self-care practices.
3. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is an evidence-based therapeutic approach that helps patients identify and modify maladaptive thoughts and behaviors contributing to their psychological distress. Clinical psychologists can integrate CBT techniques into treatment plans to address issues such as pain catastrophizing, fear avoidance, or negative self-talk.
4. Mindfulness and Stress Reduction: Mindfulness-based interventions can help patients cultivate present-moment awareness, reduce stress, and enhance pain management skills. Clinical psychologists may teach mindfulness techniques, such as mindfulness meditation or body scanning, to help patients cope with physical discomfort and emotional distress.
5. Collaborative Care Planning: Clinical psychologists collaborate closely with podiatrists to develop integrated care plans that address both physical and psychological needs. By working together, they ensure that treatment approaches are coordinated, complementary, and tailored to each patient’s unique circumstances.

Your feet are like health barometers, ready to give you valuable clues about your overall well-being. Pay attention to them and see your podiatrist if you experience any of the following warning signs.

Your podiatrist will start with a thorough medical history check followed by a physical examination of your feet and ankles. They may also order diagnostic tests such as X-rays and blood work.

1. Pain in Your Toes or Feet

Pain in your feet and toes is a common sign you should see a podiatrist. This pain may be caused by overuse of your foot and ankle or from an injury. It could also be a sign of a medical condition like arthritis, diabetes or a blood clot in the leg/foot.

Any pain that persists and doesn’t get better with home treatment or over-the-counter medication is a sign you need to visit a podiatrist. It is especially important to see a podiatrist if your pain is accompanied by other signs of infection, such as redness, warmth, tenderness and a high fever.

Swelling in your feet and toes is another serious warning sign. If your feet and toes are swollen and do not go down after being elevated, it could be due to an injury, blood clot, kidney issues or heart/circulation problems. It could also be a sign of an undiagnosed medical condition like psoriasis or cancer.

If you have diabetes, it’s important to see a podiatrist regularly for preventive care. Talaria Podiatrist of Thornbury can help keep your feet healthy and prevent diabetic neuropathy, in which the high levels of glucose damage nerves in the feet and legs. In addition, a podiatrist can spot discolored spots under your nails, which are often a sign of melanoma (cancer). It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

2. Swelling in Your Feet

While it’s common to experience occasional swelling in your feet and ankles after prolonged standing or walking, persistent or worsening swelling warrants attention. If you find yourself facing frequent or unrelieved swelling, it’s advisable to search for “podiatry near me” online with a lot of recommendations and select a podiatrist to address your concerns. Swelling in the ankles and feet can signal various health issues, such as blood clots, heart disease, or liver and kidney problems. Additionally, swollen feet may indicate Morton’s neuroma, a condition stemming from nerve compression in the foot. Don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Your podiatrist will be able to provide you with foot health services like custom orthotics in Thornbury that will help reduce the pain and improve your ability to walk normally again. For example, your podiatrist may recommend that you wear different shoes or use padding to ease the pain in your feet and ankles. Your podiatrist can also treat foot deformities such as bunions, which form when the bones in the front part of the foot become displaced. A bunion can cause heel pain, affect your gait and make wearing shoes difficult or painful.

The best way to know when to see a podiatrist is to talk to your family doctor about your foot and ankle concerns. Your family doctor can provide you with a referral to see a podiatrist if necessary. In addition, your podiatrist can refer you to a specialist such as a cardiologist for your heart and circulation issues or a nephrologist for your kidney and liver problems.

3. Calluses or Corns on Your Feet

Corns and calluses are areas of hardened skin that develop when a certain area is rubbed or scraped. They may be painful and can bleed when cut. If they are painful or interfere with walking, a podiatrist can diagnose and treat them. They can also help you avoid getting them in the future.

A health care provider can usually diagnose corns and calluses by looking at them and asking about your feet, shoes, and physical activities. They may want to watch you walk or stand and may take X-rays of your feet. If the corn or callus hurts, bleeds easily, or becomes inflamed, seek medical care right away. This is especially important if you have diabetes or poor circulation, since an infected corn can lead to an ulcer.

You can usually prevent calluses and corns by avoiding the friction that causes them to form. Wearing shoes that fit and using pads can keep your feet healthy. Make sure to get your feet measured by a shoe store clerk before you buy new shoes, so that you can be assured of a good fit. If you develop a callus or corn, try soaking it in warm water for several minutes and then using a pumice stone to remove the thick skin. If the corn or callus bleeds when you cut it, see your doctor right away — this could indicate an infection.

4. Numbness in Your Feet

Having numb feet is more than just the foot and toes “falling asleep.” It can be a sign of serious medical conditions, such as diabetes and nutrient deficiencies. If numbness is sudden or prolonged, it’s important to visit a podiatrist for treatment before long-term damage is done.

Numbness in the feet is most commonly caused by reduced blood flow or pressure on nerves. This can be a result of injury, such as a fall or car accident. It can also be a symptom of a neuroma, a benign growth that occurs around a nerve, such as the peroneal nerve between the third and fourth toes (Morton’s Neuroma). Sometimes numbness is caused by poor posture or tight clothing or footwear that restricts blood flow to the feet and toes.

If you experience numbness that is not caused by an injury, it may be a sign of multiple sclerosis (MS), which can cause the loss of balance and sensation in the feet and toes. Numbness is often one of the earliest symptoms of MS and needs to be evaluated right away to prevent long-term problems. A foot doctor can prescribe medication to calm irritated nerves and help slow the progression of diabetic neuropathy. They can also recommend proper shoe gear, orthotics and physical therapy to increase circulation and prevent complications.