Audiologists advise every one to have their hearing checked at least once every three years. If you have young children, safeguard them from noisy concerts, construction, music or other ear-damaging levels of sound. One good way to measure informally for hearing loss is to do the Finger Rub Test. Put your fingertips near your ear and rub the fingers lightly together, pulling your hand away from your ear. A normal hearer will be able to hear the fingers rubbing even when the arm is fully extended. A person with higher frequency hearing loss will not be able to pass this little test and should visit a local audiologist.

Noise can also provoke the onset of tinnitus in many people. Tinnitus is a ringing or chirping in the ears that only the individual can hear. Tinnitus can vary from a quiet hiss to a loud squeal and can be very bothersome. It is often a sign of hearing loss related to noise damage. Sometimes people will have brief episodes of tinnitus after loud events, which fades, but after a while, may become permanent, once enough damage is done. Learn about urban noise pollution laws and city regulations and help keep Oregon green and quiet!

Take care of your ears! You start out with two, and they are not able to repair or regrow the vital parts of hearing. Keep a set of soft foam earplugs handy, in your car or purse, to use when needed. Avoid noisy places where you must shout or raise your own voice loudly to be heard. It is simply too loud for you to be there!

Submitted by Marsha Johnson, AuD, Director of the Oregon Tinnitus & Hyperacusis Treatment Clinic, located near Lloyd Center. www.tinnitus-audiology.com"