Dr. Izzy’s Sound News

Presented By: Isidore Kirsh, Ph.D., F.A.A.A. (N.J. Lic. #678)

Dr. Isidore Kirsh Ph.D., F.A.A.A.

Wondering About OTCs? We Can Help

Last fall, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration published final rules establishing a new class of hearing devices — those available over the counter (OTC). Though specific to the United States, the new category may understandably spark questions for anybody seeking hearing care. What does it mean for you? More than ever, it’s important to seek hearing help from a trained hearing care professional. Hearing loss is complex, and self-treating could worsen an existing problem. Working with a highly trained provider can help you make safe, effective decisions for your ear health.

OTC Hearing Aids Are for Adults Only

The new class of FDA-regulated hearing instruments will be approved only for those 18 and older with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. They will not be available for children and might not align with one’s actual hearing loss, which could be greater than perceived. The majority of the company’s offering OTCs do not require a hearing test so basically, you’re fitting yourself with a non-prescriptive hearing instrument!

The Right Fit Plays a Big Role To maximize comfort and functionality, hearing aids must be custom fitted to each individual and programmed to support their listening lifestyle. Hearing professionals are especially skilled in helping ensure the right fit now and in the future as your hearing needs change.

You May Need Other Support Hearing loss can go hand in hand with tinnitus (ringing in the ears) or balance issues and is also associated with serious conditions such as dementia. A comprehensive hearing evaluation may help uncover additional medical needs that self-treating would likely not detect.

Self-Treatment Bypasses Critical Diagnostics It takes a trained professional to get to the bottom of hearing loss, which can have causes ranging from earwax buildup to head trauma, noise exposure, infection, disease, or even some medications. Self-treating without the benefit of a diagnostic evaluation can mean missing key answers.

In a world of choices, deciding the right approach for your hearing wellness can feel overwhelming. You’re not alone. We’re here to help with the personalized advice and care you deserve. So don’t wait. Call to schedule your appointment today! Dr. Izzy and his Staff are always available to provide you with solutions for your hearing care needs. Please visit us at www.gardenstatehearing.com or call 732-818-3610 (Toms River/Whiting) or 609-978-8946 (Manahawkin).

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Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

6 Tips For Healthy Postpartum Care

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

The postpartum period can be overwhelming and challenging if it’s your first child, but it can also be a special time for bonding with your new baby. With the sudden drop in progesterone hormone after childbirth, the blues can occur and this can take a toll in the first few weeks. If depression occurs, it can be a difficult situation, but it is important to prioritize your own well-being so you can ultimately give more to your new family.

Here are 6 tips to help a new mom navigate postpartum depression:

1. Bond with your baby. This is a special time for you to get to know your new little one. Spend time cuddling, talking to, and looking at your baby. This will also help to build a strong attachment between the two of you.

2. Ask for help. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from family and friends. They can help with things like cooking, cleaning, and taking care of the baby. You may also want to consider hiring a postpartum doula to help with breastfeeding and baby care.

3. Join a support group or play group with other moms. You are not alone in this journey, and connecting with other new moms can be a great way to find support, advice, and friendship. You can find support groups online or in your local community.

4. Consider therapy or counseling. It is normal to have a range of emotions during the postpartum period, but if you find yourself struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, or other mental health concerns, seeking therapy or counseling can be a helpful.

5. Take time for self-care. Make time to do things that you enjoy and make you feel good. This can be anything from reading a book, walking, or having a bath.

6. Keep a journal. Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be a great way to process your emotions and reflect on your experiences. You can also look back on it later and see how far you’ve come.

Being a new mom is a wonderful and rewarding experience but can also be challenging especially in the first few weeks when you’re missing so much sleep! If you are having trouble with breastfeeding, let your baby set the pace and keep yourself hydrated. I have more tips on postpartum depression and breastfeeding in the longer, more detailed version of this article which is posted on my website. To read that version, visit suzycohen.com and sign up for my free weekly email.

In summary, be patient with yourself and your baby. Your baby is new to the world, just like you are new to being a parent. Be patient and understanding with yourself and your baby. You will both make mistakes, but you will also make progress. You are going through a lot right now and it is okay to take a break when you need it. With time, you will find your footing and will be able to navigate the postpartum period with ease.

Residential Dementia & Alzheimer’s