Audiology/Otolaryngology/Hearing aids and ear infection

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Expert: Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D. - 6/29/2009


Question
Can my hearing aids be the cause of my ear infection? Thank you so much for your time. Alan

Answer
Hi Alan,
I'm going to need a bit more information, most importantly, what type of ear infection are you talking about?  

In general, hearing aids are major carriers of bacteria and fungi. It is very important to clean your hearing aids either after removing them from your ears or prior to insertion.  You can purchase special solutions for this and you should discuss this with your audiologist. And never, NEVER, stick your hearing aid in your mouth to wet it for easier insertion.  If you have difficulty inserting it, talk to your audiologist about purchasing special gels made for this.

Hope this helps.
Dr. Harriet B. Jacobster, AuD
Board Certified in Audiology

Audiology/Otolaryngology

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Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D.

Expertise

I am a Board Certified Doctor of Audiology with 25 years of experience. I can answer questions regarding hearing loss, both general and specific, dizziness and vertigo, auditory processing disorders, hearing aids, aural rehabilitation as well as specialized audiologic testing, i.e., Auditory Brainstem Response, VideoNystagmography, Otoacoutic Emissions. I have worked with both pediatric and adult populations. Because of my extensive musical background, I am able to respond to questions regarding the special needs of musicians.

Experience

I have been an audiologist for over 25 years with a specialty in electrophysiology of the auditory and vestibular systems and pediatric evaluations. I currently work in my private consulting practice providing services to nursing homes and schools. My Doctoral research was on specialized techniques in Auditory Brainstem Responses.

Organizations
American Academy of Audiology, - American Speech Language Hearing Association, - Hearing Loss Association of America

Education/Credentials
Au.D. (Doctor of Audiology), Nova Southeastern University, 2000. Board Certified Doctor of Audiology (American Board of Audiology) Certificate in Audiology from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

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