IN Carlynton-Montour Winter 2018 | Page 21

Health & Wellness S p e c i a l S e c t i o n the ear, or ruptured eardrum. Damage to the inner ear can happen with age, or constant exposure to loud noises over an extended period of time. These cause wear on the nerve cells in the cochlea that send sound to the brain. When they are damaged, signals aren’t transmitted as effectively, causing loss of hearing. Heredity, aging, occupational and recreational noises, some medications, and some illnesses may cause either partial or full hearing loss, but there are ways to treat hearing loss. Treatment can include surgical procedures, hearing aids, or cochlear implants. Preventive measures can also be taken to protect against noise-induced hearing loss and to avoid age-related hearing loss. Be sure to wear protective earmuffs if you work in a loud environment or are hunting, going to concerts or doing other loud activities for an extended period of time. It is also important to have your hearing tested on a regular basis. Early detection is key to preventing complete hearing loss. Dr. Lori A. Howard Board Certified Doctor of Audiology Dr. Laura Di Pasquale-Gregory Board Certified Doctor of Audiology Pittsburgh Audiology & Hearing Aid Center, Inc. Doctors of Audiology • Risk-Free Trial Periods • Over 10 Major Hearing Aid Brands • Advanced Digital Technology • Tinnitus Therapy • Real Ear Hearing Aid Verification • LIFETIME FREE CLEANINGS • Interest-Free Financing • Senior Citizen Discounts • Repair & Service All Makes • Approved Insurance Providers • LIFETIME FREE BATTERIES * *Some exclusions may apply. NOW INTRODUCING A NEW HEARING AID LEASING PROGRAM AS LOW AS $99/MONTH 412.424.0444 www.pghaudiology.com Moon Twp. Office 963 Beaver Grade Rd. Suite B 5 Convenient Locations | Serving Pittsburgh for Over 60 Years! Most Insurances Accepted Mouth Health Your mouth can tell a lot about your overall health. Investing in your oral health is also investing in your general health. There are several conditions that are linked to oral health including endocarditis and cardiovascular disease. When bacteria from your mouth—or other parts of your body—spread through your bloodstream, they can attach to your heart, causing an infection in the inner lining called endocarditis. Research suggests that poor oral health is linked to clogged arteries and stroke as well. Keeping tabs on your oral health is critical for warding off bad breath and poor health. It is important to brush at least twice a day, floss, eat a healthy diet, replace your toothbrush every three to four months, and avoid tobacco use to maintain a healthy mouth. Visiting your dentist for regular cleanings can also ensure that oral hygiene is at its best. Continued on page 22 > Carlynton-Montour ❘ winter 2018 19