Earwax buildup can be professionally removed using safe and effective methods. First, the professional will examine the ear canal to assess the extent of the blockage. Our removal techniques include:

• Manual removal: Using specialized instruments such as a lighted curette to extract earwax.

• Irrigation: Flushing the ear canal with a controlled stream of water to dislodge and remove wax.

These methods are performed in a controlled environment to minimize discomfort and avoid injury. Following removal, we may provide advice on preventing future buildup and maintaining ear health. A referral to a medical specialist will be made as necessary.

Sensorineural Hearing Loss
This type of hearing loss occurs due to damage to the inner ear (cochlea) or the auditory nerve. It is often permanent and can result from aging, noise exposure, or certain illnesses. Sensorineural loss affects the ability to hear faint sounds and often reduces clarity of speech. Should there be any medical concerns with your hearing loss, you will be referred to the appropriate medical specialist.

Conductive Hearing Loss
Conductive hearing loss happens when sound is blocked or reduced as it travels through the outer or middle ear. Causes may include ear infections, fluid buildup, earwax, or abnormalities in the ear structure. This type of hearing loss is sometimes temporary and may be treatable with medical intervention. Should you have conductive hearing loss that may be medically treatable, we will refer you to an appropriate medical specialist.

Mixed Hearing Loss
Mixed hearing loss is a combination of sensorineural and conductive hearing loss. It involves damage in both the outer or middle ear and the inner ear or auditory nerve. Treatment may require addressing both components to improve hearing. Should any component of your hearing loss be medically treatable, we will refer you to an appropriate medical specialist.

Hidden hearing loss:

This condition often results in difficulty understanding speech in noisy environments despite having normal hearing on a standard hearing test. Difficulty hearing in noise could be caused by extended high frequency hearing loss or issues with the inner ear or auditory nerve.

Auditory neuropathy:

This condition is characterized by disrupted transmission of sound signals from the inner ear to the brain. People with this condition can detect sounds but have poor speech understanding, particularly in noisy settings, because the timing and clarity of nerve signals are impaired.

Auditory processing disorder (APD):

This condition affects how the brain processes sound. Individuals with APD may struggle to focus on speech in background noise, have difficulty following rapid speech, or confuse similar sounds. This condition reflects issues in central auditory pathways rather than the ear itself.

Each of these conditions requires specialized evaluation and management to improve hearing ability and communication in challenging environments. A referral to a medical specialist will be made as necessary.

Tinnitus is the perception of ringing, buzzing, hissing, or other sounds in the ears or head when no external sound source is present. It is a symptom rather than a disease and can vary in intensity and duration, affecting one or both ears.

Proven tinnitus treatments focus on managing symptoms rather than curing the condition, as no universal cure exists. Click here to learn more about tinnitus care at our clinic.

At Harmony Audiology, personalized tinnitus care is provided to tailor treatment plans according to individual needs and hearing profiles. A referral to a medical specialist will be made as necessary.

Hyperacusis: a condition characterized by an increased sensitivity to everyday sounds that are typically well-tolerated by others. Individuals with hyperacusis may find normal environmental noises uncomfortably loud or even painful. This heightened sound perception can interfere with daily activities and negatively impact quality of life.

Hyperacusis is often associated with hearing loss, tinnitus, head injuries, or neurological disorders, but the exact cause can vary. The condition can also coexist with other auditory processing issues.

Misophonia: a strong emotional reaction—such as anger, anxiety, or distress—to specific everyday sounds like chewing, tapping, or breathing. While not a hearing disorder, it affects how the brain processes sound, making certain noises feel overwhelming.

At Harmony Audiology, personalized evaluation and management plans are provided to support individuals experiencing sound sensitivity, focusing on compassionate care and effective treatment strategies.

Ototoxicity refers to ear poisoning, which occurs when certain medications or chemicals damage the inner ear or the auditory nerve, leading to hearing loss, tinnitus, or balance disorders. Common ototoxic agents include certain antibiotics (like aminoglycosides), chemotherapy drugs (such as cisplatin), loop diuretics, and high doses of aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Treatment for ototoxicity primarily focuses on early detection and prevention of further damage. Discontinuing or adjusting the dosage of the ototoxic medication under medical supervision is essential. Hearing aids and assistive listening devices can help manage resulting hearing loss. In some cases, corticosteroids may be used to reduce inflammation. Monitoring hearing regularly during treatment with known ototoxic drugs allows for timely intervention.

At Harmony Audiology, we emphasize the importance of early identification, regular monitoring, and personalized management plans for patients affected by ototoxicity. We work together with medical specialists to help you navigate this condition best.