Today we went to Los Gatos to visit the Audiologist for the first time. We were referred to the ear specialist by the Neurologist, just to make sure everything is working as it should be. Surprise! They found one of my ears was completely filled with fluid and the other was unresponsive.
Wow! So the next step will be to consider tubes in the ears..they thought perhaps with my reflux/swallowing/aspirating issues, the fluid does not move like it does for others so the tubes may be a big help! They will also schedule an ABR, Auditory Brain Response test. This explanation is from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association:
"The auditory brainstem response (ABR) test gives information about the inner ear (cochlea) and brain pathways for hearing. This test is also sometimes referred to as auditory evoked potential (AEP). The test can be used with children or others who have a difficult time with conventional behavioral methods of hearing screening. The ABR is also indicated for a person with signs, symptoms, or complaints suggesting a type of hearing loss in the brain or a brain pathway.
The ABR is performed by pasting electrodes on the head—similar to electrodes placed around the heart when an electrocardiogram is run—and recording brain wave activity in response to sound. The person being tested rests quietly or sleeps while the test is performed. No response is necessary. ABR can also be used as a screening test in newborn hearing screening programs. When used as a screening test, only one intensity or loudness level is checked, and the baby either passes or fails the screen."
This is really exciting news! What if my hearing has been affecting my speech and balance? What if the Audiologist can help me hear better and I can speak more clearly? Can't wait to see what happens next!
Wow! So the next step will be to consider tubes in the ears..they thought perhaps with my reflux/swallowing/aspirating issues, the fluid does not move like it does for others so the tubes may be a big help! They will also schedule an ABR, Auditory Brain Response test. This explanation is from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association:
"The auditory brainstem response (ABR) test gives information about the inner ear (cochlea) and brain pathways for hearing. This test is also sometimes referred to as auditory evoked potential (AEP). The test can be used with children or others who have a difficult time with conventional behavioral methods of hearing screening. The ABR is also indicated for a person with signs, symptoms, or complaints suggesting a type of hearing loss in the brain or a brain pathway.
The ABR is performed by pasting electrodes on the head—similar to electrodes placed around the heart when an electrocardiogram is run—and recording brain wave activity in response to sound. The person being tested rests quietly or sleeps while the test is performed. No response is necessary. ABR can also be used as a screening test in newborn hearing screening programs. When used as a screening test, only one intensity or loudness level is checked, and the baby either passes or fails the screen."
This is really exciting news! What if my hearing has been affecting my speech and balance? What if the Audiologist can help me hear better and I can speak more clearly? Can't wait to see what happens next!
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