HEARING impairment has been considered the most prevalent form of impairment worldwide.
On Tuesday people across the world took part in the ‘International Ear and Hearing Day’ to create awareness of the importance of the effects of impaired hearing.
Richards Bay-based audiologist, Dr Laila Karma, said uMhlathuze has a high incidence of noise induced hearing impairments as it is largely industrial.
‘Early detection allows for prompt and successful management. Some hearing losses are treatable and reversible if detected early,’ Karma said.
‘Regular checkups are important for people prone to ear infections and those on medication for cancer, malaria, tuberculosis and diabetes.’ Dr Karma said.
South African Association of Audiologists (SAAA) President, Kelly Nathan, said hearing impairment detrimentally impacts the quality of life.
‘Consequences include an inability to communicate effectively, a delay in speech and language development in babies and young children, learning difficulties at school, isolation, stigmatisation and depression.’ Nathan said.
In partnership with the World Health Organisation’s campaign, SAAA has declared the month of March as hearing awareness month, developing a concept dubbed ‘Shake Your Sugar’ which provides a basic ‘self hearing check’.
‘Shaking a prepackaged sugar sachet creates a soft high pitched sound which is typical to the sounds that disappear first in most types of hearing loss.
‘Both ears should hear the sound at the same volume when shaken at arm’s length. You should also take note if the sounds change over time. Do not stop checking if you can hear it the first time.’ said Nathan.
