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What Is Tinnitus? Tinnitus is the perception of sound — like ringing, buzzing, or humming when no external sound is present. It can come and go, or for some, it becomes a constant companion that affects concentration, sleep, and peace of mind. While many people assume tinnitus starts in the ears, the real story goes much deeper — into the brain’s sound system. Meet the Thalamus: The Brain’s Sound Gatekeeper The thalamus sits deep in the center of your brain, just above the brainstem. Think of it as your brain’s filter or switchboard — it decides which sensory signals (like sound, touch, or vision) are important enough to reach your conscious awareness. In a healthy system, the thalamus helps you ignore background noise so you can focus on what matters. But when hearing damage or loss occurs, the thalamus can become overactive, trying to fill in missing sounds. That overactivity creates a false signal, which your brain interprets as a real tone — the hallmark of tinnitus. The Cortex: Where Sound Is Actually 'Heard' The auditory cortex, located on the outer layer of your brain above your ears, is where sounds are processed and understood. When the thalamus keeps sending phantom sound signals, the cortex hears them as real, even though nothing is happening in the ear itself. Over time, the thalamus and cortex form a feedback loop, constantly reinforcing the false sound. And because these brain areas also talk to the emotional centers (like the amygdala and limbic system), stress, anxiety, and poor sleep can make tinnitus seem even louder. Why You 'Hear' a Sound That Isn’t There Here’s the simplified chain reaction: Ear damage or hearing loss → less sound input to the brain. Thalamus → turns up the 'volume' to compensate, sending false signals. Auditory cortex → interprets those signals as sound. Limbic system → emotional stress makes the loop stronger. So even though tinnitus feels like an ear problem, it’s really a brain perception issue involving the thalamus and cortex. Calming the Brain: Treatment Approaches There’s no one-size-fits-all cure, but many treatments help retrain the thalamus and calm the brain’s response: Sound Therapy / Hearing Aids – Restores natural sound input, helping the thalamus relax and reducing phantom activity. Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT) – Combines counselling with sound therapy to teach the brain to filter out the tinnitus signal. Cognitive and Mindfulness Approaches – CBT, meditation, and relaxation techniques quiet the limbic (emotional) response, lowering distress and perceived loudness. Neuromodulation Therapies – Emerging treatments like rTMS or bimodal stimulation aim to rebalance brainwave activity between the thalamus and cortex. Whole-System Support – Nutrients like magnesium, zinc, and B12, good sleep, hydration, and reducing silence (using background sounds) all help regulate the nervous system. A Simple Way to Explain It “Tinnitus happens when the brain’s sound filter (the thalamus) keeps sending a false signal, and the sound center (the cortex) hears it as real.” At Frequency Hearing At Frequency Hearing, we help patients understand what’s happening in their brain — not just their ears. Through advanced hearing testing, sound therapy, and personalized counselling, we can help your brain retrain its sound filters and find relief.

Music or Nature? Why Your Ears Deserve Both This Summer Do you enjoy listening to music while gardening, walking the dog, or working on a summer project? A great playlist can help set the mood. It can boost your energy while pulling weeds, help you stay focused while painting a fence, or make a long walk fly by. But what happens when you turn the music off for a little while? That’s when something amazing starts to happen. Summer Is Full of Sounds You Don’t Want to Miss When you step outside and remove your earbuds, you might notice things you usually don’t hear. A bird calling from the trees. The soft hum of bees near the flowers. Leaves rustling in the wind. Even your own footsteps on the grass. These natural sounds, are more than just background noise. They can calm your mind, lower stress, and help you feel more connected to your surroundings. Listening to nature, even for a few minutes, gives your brain and ears a much-needed break from constant input. Why You Should Rotate Between Music and Nature Rotating between music and natural sound isn’t just a nice idea, it’s a healthy habit. Here’s why: Your ears and brain need quiet time. Constant audio, even music, can cause listening fatigue. Nature sounds are proven to reduce stress and support mental health. Taking breaks from earbuds helps protect your long-term hearing. It keeps you more aware of your environment, which can be both peaceful and safer. Even a short break from your playlist can make a difference. Try This Simple “Sound Rotation” Routine Next time you're out enjoying your favourite hobby, give this a try: Step 1: Start with your music. Pick a few songs you love and enjoy them while you begin your activity. Step 2: Take a 10-minute break. Pause the music. Take out your earbuds. Just listen. Notice the world around you and breathe it in. Step 3: End with low-volume music or silence. Let your ears wind down slowly as you wrap up your task or activity. This approach lets you enjoy the benefits of both sound worlds while giving your ears the balance they need. A Quick Reminder for Earbud Users If you wear earbuds regularly, remember: Keep the volume below 60 percent Take breaks often Avoid using them all day Watch for signs of hearing stress like ringing or muffled sound If you’re unsure about your hearing or just want peace of mind, a quick hearing check can help. Your Summer, Your Sound Summer is full of music, laughter, birdsong, and memories waiting to be made. Whether you’re tuning in to your favourite band or the sounds of nature, take care of your hearing so you can enjoy it all. Have questions about hearing health, earbuds, or custom hearing protection for summer hobbies? We’re happy to help.  Your ears are with you every step of the way. Let’s help them hear it all.

Are Hearing Aids the New Glasses? Cool Tech That Helps You Hear (and Translate!) Better  Glasses Used to Be a Hassle. Now They're Fashionable. Not long ago, people were embarrassed to wear glasses. Today, many wear them without a prescription just to look sharp. Glasses became part of fashion and everyday life. Now the same shift is happening with hearing aids. Modern hearing aids, especially those from Oticon , are no longer big beige devices that whistle at the wrong time. Today, they are small, smart, and designed to help you hear clearly in every part of your life. Some can even help you understand different languages. Oticon Hearing Aids Are Smarter Than Ever Oticon is one of the world’s top hearing aid companies. They have been helping people hear better for over 100 years. Today, their focus is on helping your brain understand sound, not just making things louder. This is called BrainHearing™ technology . Oticon’s latest models, including Intent , Real , Own , and More , use artificial intelligence to adjust to your surroundings in real time. These devices help you hear clearly in quiet rooms, busy restaurants, or while walking outside. Some models work with apps that even let you translate conversations from other languages into sound you can understand. Yes, Language Translation Is Possible Not every Oticon hearing aid has built-in translation. But if you use an Oticon model with Bluetooth and the Oticon Companion app , you can stream translated audio from your smartphone directly into your hearing aids. This is helpful if you are: Travelling in another country Talking with someone who speaks a different language Living in a multilingual home or community Free or low-cost translation apps that work with Oticon hearing aids Here are three free or low-cost translation apps that work with Oticon hearing aids when used through your phone. 1. Google Translate Real-time speech translation Works with over 100 languages Easy to use with your phone’s microphone You can stream translated speech into your Oticon hearing aids using Bluetooth Download for iPhone Download for Android 2. iTranslate Voice or Reverso Translate and Learn Speak into your phone and hear the translation Great for casual conversation or travel Streams clearly into your Oticon hearing aids if your phone supports it iTranslate for iPhone Reverso for Android 3. Microsoft Translator Translates spoken words and displays the text Offers speech playback you can stream into your hearing aids Also works well for group conversations Download for iPhone Download for Android Use the Oticon Companion App to Control Everything Whether or not you use translation apps, the Oticon Companion app gives you full control of your hearing aids. You can: Adjust volume and settings Switch between listening programs Stream calls and music from your phone Check battery life Use SpeechBooster to focus on voices Track your hearing habits with HearingFitness Get remote support from your audiologist Oticon Companion for iPhone Oticon Companion for Android Hearing Aids Are No Longer Something to Hide Just like glasses became stylish, hearing aids are becoming something people are proud to wear. Oticon designs their hearing aids to be small, sleek, and comfortable. Some are nearly invisible when worn. Today’s hearing aids help you: Hear clearly in noisy places Understand multiple languages Stay connected to calls, music, and smart home devices Control everything from your smartphone At Frequency Hearing, we are proud to offer the latest Oticon hearing aids and support tools. These are not just for hearing better. They are for living better . If you are thinking about hearing aids for yourself or someone you care about, now is the time to take the next step. The technology is ready and the experience is easier than ever.

Have you ever seen a message pop up on your phone that says something like “Your headphone volume was too loud today”? It might seem easy to ignore, but that alert is there to protect your hearing. Our phones are getting smarter, and now they can help us take better care of our health. The latest iPhones and Android phones can warn you if you have been listening to loud sounds for too long. If your phone does not do this, there are free apps that can help. These tools are a great first step toward protecting your ears and your overall health. Let us take a closer look at how this works and why it matters more than you might think. Why Loud Sounds Are a Problem When you are exposed to loud noise for a long time, the tiny hairs inside your ears can get damaged. These hairs help carry sound signals to your brain. Once they are damaged, they do not grow back, which means the hearing loss is permanent. But that is not all. Being around loud noise often does more than just hurt your hearing. It can also make you feel: Tired or worn out Stressed or anxious Less focused during the day This happens because your brain is working overtime trying to process sound that is too loud or not clear. When your ears are under stress, your body feels it too. That is why hearing health is connected to your overall health and energy levels. How Your Phone Helps Many phones now have safety features that can alert you when sound levels are too high. iPhones with iOS 14 or newer include a feature in the Health app that tracks your headphone sound levels over time. If it notices your volume is often too loud, it will send a warning. Android phones with Android 10 or newer will show a message if your volume stays at unsafe levels for too long. These features follow safe listening rules from the World Health Organization. The goal is to help people lower the risk of long-term hearing loss by making them aware of dangerous sound levels. No Alerts? Try These Free Apps If your phone is older or does not have hearing safety tools built in, you can download an app that does the same job. 1. NIOSH Sound Level Meter – for iPhone This app was created by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. It shows real-time noise levels and helps you know when your environment might be too loud. ➤ Download for iPhone 2. Sound Meter – for Android This app measures the noise around you and shows the sound level in decibels. It is simple, accurate, and easy to use. ➤ Download for Android Both of these apps are free and useful at concerts, job sites, busy streets, or even noisy restaurants. Take Action to Protect Your Hearing If your phone or an app tells you that the sound is too loud, do not ignore it. Turn the volume down. Take breaks from headphones. Use noise-cancelling headphones instead of turning the volume up to block background sounds. Remember, protecting your hearing is not just about avoiding hearing aids later in life. It is about feeling your best every day. Clear hearing helps your brain work better, lowers stress, and keeps you feeling more focused and less tired. Hear is What Our Experts Say... Your hearing health is part of your overall health. The good news is that small changes can make a big difference. Pay attention to the alerts your phone gives you. If it does not have those features, download a trusted app to help. Your ears and your body will thank you. If you have concerns about your hearing or are not sure how to get started, we are here to help. Book a hearing test today online or call us at 780-737-7117. Stay healthy. Stay connected. Stay sharp.

The Hidden Danger of Reusable Silicone Earplugs: A Cautionary Tale Reusable silicone earplugs are marketed as a versatile solution for noise reduction and water protection , often advertised for sleeping, swimming, mowing, flying, and studying . While they may seem like a convenient and cost-effective option, they can pose serious risks if not used properly . I recently had a client visit my clinic with a concerning issue—her reusable silicone earplug had become stuck deep inside her ear . Despite our best efforts, we were unable to safely remove it, and she had to seek medical attention. This experience serves as a warning for others who might consider using these types of earplugs. Why Silicone Earplugs Can Be Risky Soft and Sticky Texture – While designed to mold to the ear, silicone can become lodged in the ear canal, making removal difficult Breakage or Fragmentation – Some reusable silicone plugs can break apart , leaving small pieces stuck inside the ear. Creates an Airtight Seal – This may seem beneficial, but if pushed too deep , it can lead to ear infections, discomfort, or even temporary hearing loss . Not One-Size-Fits-All – Everyone’s ear canals are different, and a poorly fitting plug can either fall out too easily or get stuck too deeply . A Safer Alternative: Custom-Fit Ear Protection Instead of risking a stuck earplug, I always recommend custom ear molds tailored to each individual's ear shape. These provide: A Secure & Comfortable Fit – No risk of them getting stuck or falling out. Better Noise Reduction – Designed for sleep, work, or loud environments. Safe Water Protection – Ideal for swimming without the risk of ear infections. Long-Lasting & Durable – Unlike silicone earplugs, which wear out over time. Whether you need sleep molds, musician earplugs, or hearing protection for loud environments , custom earplugs are the safest and most effective choice . While reusable silicone earplugs may seem convenient, they can pose serious risks —as my client unfortunately experienced. If you’re looking for comfortable, safe, and effective ear protection , I highly recommend exploring custom-fit earplugs . Your ears are too important to take chances with! Want to learn more about custom ear protection? Visit our clinic to explore options tailored to your needs.

 How to Prevent Ear Pressure When Flying: Tips & Expert Advice If you've ever felt your ears pop or become clogged while flying, you're not alone! This happens due to rapid air pressure changes during takeoff and landing. The good news? There are simple ways to prevent discomfort and protect your ears while traveling. Why Does Ear Pressure Happen? Your ears have small passages called Eustachian tubes, which help equalize pressure between your middle ear and the outside environment. When a plane ascends or descends, the air pressure changes quickly, and if your Eustachian tubes don’t adjust fast enough, you may feel discomfort, fullness, or temporary hearing loss. How to Prevent Ear Pressure While Flying Simple Strategies for Ear Comfort: Swallow, yawn, or chew gum – These actions help open the Eustachian tubes, making it easier for your ears to adjust. Try the Valsalva maneuver – Pinch your nose, close your mouth, and gently blow as if trying to exhale through your nose. Drink water – Staying hydrated keeps your nasal passages clear and helps with pressure regulation. Use filtered earplugs – Special earplugs like EarPlanes help slow down pressure changes, reducing discomfort. Avoid sleeping during takeoff & landing – This ensures you can actively equalize pressure as needed. Additional Precautions for Frequent Flyers For those who often experience ear discomfort while flying, some find relief using nasal sprays or decongestants before travel. However, it's important to consult your doctor or an ENT if you have frequent issues, chronic sinus problems, or concerns about your ear health. A healthcare professional can recommend the best approach for your individual needs. When to Seek Medical Advice: If you experience severe ear pain, prolonged hearing loss, or fluid drainage after flying, consider following up with your doctor or an ENT specialist. Most people can prevent ear pressure with simple tricks like chewing gum, swallowing, or using filtered earplugs. If you frequently experience discomfort while flying, talking to a medical professional can help you find the best long-term solutions. Safe travels and happy ears!

Can AirPods Replace Hearing Aids? A Deep Dive into the Truth As technology evolves, everyday gadgets like AirPods Pro 2 are expanding their capabilities. With their Hearing Aid feature , AirPods Pro 2 offer a glimpse into a future where accessibility meets convenience. But can they truly replace traditional hearing aids? Let’s break it down. What AirPods Pro 2 Offer Apple’s Hearing Aid feature uses your device's Hearing Test results or a professional audiogram to customize sound output. It aims to help users with mild to moderate hearing loss by: Amplifying sounds for better clarity. Reducing ambient noise with Noise Reduction . Enhancing conversations with features like Conversation Boost . For those dipping their toes into hearing assistance, these features provide a valuable starting point. The Limitations of AirPods Pro 2 Despite their impressive features, AirPods Pro 2 are not a complete substitute for hearing aids. Here’s why: Designed for Mild Needs AirPods Pro 2 can assist with mild to moderate hearing loss, but severe or complex cases require the precision of medical-grade hearing aids. No Professional Oversight Unlike hearing aids fitted by an audiologist, AirPods lack professional adjustments, verification tests like Real Ear Measurements , and personalized support. Not Built for All-Day Use AirPods have limited battery life compared to hearing aids, which are designed for extended daily wear. Durability Challenges Hearing aids are engineered for resilience in various conditions, including moisture and wear. AirPods are not optimized for the same rigorous demands. Why Choose Traditional Hearing Aids? Hearing aids are specifically designed to improve hearing health. They offer: Customization : Tailored settings to match the unique hearing profile of each ear. Professional Support : Adjustments, troubleshooting, and ongoing care from audiologists. All-Day Functionality : Longer battery life and comfort for daily use. Longevity : Built to withstand environmental challenges and daily wear. At Frequency Hearing , we prioritize personalized care. From accurate hearing testing to fine-tuning settings, we ensure you have the tools and support needed to thrive. What’s the Verdict? While AirPods Pro 2 can be a helpful starting point for individuals exploring hearing assistance, they are not a replacement for hearing aids. Hearing loss is complex, and effective management requires expert care, precision, and devices designed for medical use. Take the First Step Toward Better Hearing Your hearing is unique—don’t settle for a one-size-fits-all solution. If you’re exploring hearing aids or unsure where to begin, Frequency Hearing is here to help. Book an appointment to discover customized solutions that prioritize your hearing health and quality of life. Let us help you truly hear the world around you.

For those who are sensitive to noise, everyday sounds can feel overwhelming. Managing your environment and making thoughtful adjustments can greatly improve your comfort and overall well-being. Whether at home, work, or out in public, these recommendations can help you create a more peaceful and manageable soundscape. 1. Transform Your Home into a Quiet Haven Your home should be a place of comfort and tranquility. Here’s how to reduce noise and create a calming environment: - **Soundproof Your Space**: Add heavy curtains, rugs, and door seals to block noise from outside. Acoustic panels on walls can further dampen sound. - **Invest in Quiet Appliances**: Look for low-noise options when buying fans, dishwashers, or washing machines. Whisper-quiet appliances can make a big difference in maintaining a serene atmosphere. - **Use White Noise Machines**: Soothing background noise, like gentle rain or soft static, can mask disruptive sounds and create a consistent, calming environment. --- ### **2. Equip Yourself with Personal Noise-Reducing Tools** Sometimes, managing noise on the go requires portable solutions: - **Noise-Canceling Headphones**: Perfect for work, travel, or relaxation, these headphones actively reduce background noise, allowing you to focus or unwind. - **Earplugs**: Foam or silicone earplugs are an affordable and effective way to reduce noise levels in various settings. - **Custom Earplugs**: For a more comfortable and durable solution, consider custom-molded earplugs designed specifically for your ears. --- ### **3. Make Lifestyle Adjustments for Peaceful Living** Incorporating quiet habits into your daily routine can help you better manage noise sensitivity: - **Engage in Quiet Activities**: Opt for hobbies like reading, knitting, or yoga that allow you to relax without added sensory input. - **Create Noise-Free Zones**: Designate a quiet room in your home where you can retreat and recharge when overwhelmed. - **Practice Mindfulness**: Techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or progressive muscle relaxation can help reduce stress associated with noise sensitivity. --- ### **4. Navigate Social and Work Settings with Confidence** Managing noise sensitivity in public and professional spaces requires clear communication and thoughtful planning: - **Set Boundaries**: Let friends, family, or coworkers know about your sensitivity and politely request adjustments, like lowering the volume of music. - **Choose Quiet Venues**: When dining out or attending events, select quieter locations or visit during less busy times. - **Request Workplace Accommodations**: If noise at work is an issue, ask for a quieter workspace, noise-reducing partitions, or the option to work remotely. --- ### **5. Address Underlying Medical Considerations** Noise sensitivity can sometimes stem from medical conditions, so don’t hesitate to seek professional advice: - **Check Your Hearing Health**: An audiologist can assess your hearing and rule out conditions like **hyperacusis** or **tinnitus**, which may contribute to noise sensitivity. - **Explore Therapy Options**: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or sound therapy can help desensitize you to certain sounds over time, making everyday life more manageable. --- ### **Embrace a Quieter Life with Support** Noise sensitivity can feel isolating, but you don’t have to manage it alone. By making small changes to your environment, using noise-reducing tools, and seeking professional support when needed, you can reclaim your peace of mind and enjoy a quieter, more comfortable life. If you’re struggling with noise sensitivity or suspect a hearing-related issue, our team at **Frequency Hearing** is here to help. [**Schedule an appointment with us today**](https://www.frequencyhearing.ca/) to take the first step toward a calmer, quieter future.

Keeping the Spark Alive: Staying Connected When One of You Has Hearing Loss Relationships thrive on connection, communication, and shared experiences. But when hearing loss enters the picture, these cherished aspects of a partnership can feel more challenging. The good news is that with understanding, creativity, and a commitment to nurturing your bond, you can overcome these obstacles and keep the spark alive. One beautiful idea to try? Silent dates. These special outings are all about creating an environment where the only sounds are each other’s voices. Let’s explore how hearing loss impacts relationships and how you can use intentional moments, like silent dates, to strengthen your connection. The Impact of Hearing Loss on Relationships Hearing loss doesn’t just affect the person experiencing it; it can ripple through your partnership. Conversations may become harder to follow, leading to misunderstandings or frustration. Background noise at busy restaurants or events might make it challenging to enjoy each other’s company fully. Over time, even minor communication struggles can feel like a barrier to closeness. But here’s the thing: hearing loss doesn’t mean you have to lose your connection. In fact, it’s an opportunity to grow together as you learn new ways to communicate and support each other. Rediscovering Connection: The Silent Date Idea One way to bring the focus back to each other is by planning a silent date. The concept is simple but powerful: create a setting where distractions fade, and you can truly hear each other, both figuratively and literally. Here’s how to plan a memorable silent date: 1. Choose the Right Environment Opt for a quiet, peaceful location. Think about a cozy spot at home, a serene park, or a quiet corner of your favorite café. The goal is to minimize background noise and allow your voices to be the main sounds in the space. 2. Set the Scene Create an atmosphere that invites closeness. Soft lighting, comfortable seating, and maybe even a shared activity like enjoying a meal or stargazing can make the moment feel intimate and special. 3. Focus on Each Other Use this time to have meaningful conversations. Whether it’s sharing stories, expressing gratitude, or simply reminiscing about favorite memories, this is your moment to reconnect. 4. Use Non-Verbal Communication Sometimes, a gentle touch or a loving look says more than words ever could. Embrace the beauty of communicating through gestures and body language to deepen your bond. Additional Tips for Staying Connected Silent dates are just one way to nurture your relationship. Here are a few more strategies to keep the spark alive when one of you has hearing loss: Practice Patience: Be understanding when conversations take extra effort. Hearing loss is frustrating for both of you, and kindness can go a long way. Use Hearing Support Devices: Encourage the use of hearing aids or other assistive devices to make communication easier. Modern technology offers incredible options that can enhance your shared experiences. Learn Together: Consider taking a class or pursuing a shared hobby. Activities like cooking, painting, or learning a new skill can bring you closer through teamwork. Be Open About Feelings: Regularly check in with each other about how you’re feeling. Discussing frustrations or fears openly can prevent them from becoming barriers. A Relationship That Thrives Through Understanding Hearing loss may change how you communicate, but it doesn’t have to diminish the love and connection you share. In fact, by embracing new ideas like silent dates and showing patience and support, you may find that your relationship grows even stronger. This holiday season, why not plan a silent date as a meaningful gift for each other? Make time to reconnect and truly hear each other in every sense of the word. At Frequency Hearing, we’re here to help you navigate the challenges of hearing loss—whether it’s through personalized hearing solutions or advice to support your journey. Let us know how we can help you and your partner stay connected. Ready to Take the Next Step? If hearing loss is affecting your relationship, we’re here to help. Book an appointment today and let us guide you towards hearing solutions that make every conversation—and every moment—count.