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REVERSE HEARING LOSS Copyright, Legal Notice and Disclaimer: Please note that much of this publication is based on personal experience and anecdotal evidence. Although the author and publisher have made every reasonable attempt to achieve complete accuracy of the content in this Guide, they assume no responsibility for errors or omissions. Also, you should use this information as you see fit, and at your own risk. Your particular situation may not be exactly suited to the examples illustrated here; in fact, it’s likely that they won’t be the same, and you should adjust your use of the information and recommendations accordingly. Any trademarks, service marks, product names or named features are assumed to be the property of their respective owners, and are used only for reference. There is no implied endorsement if we use one of these terms. No part of this publication shall be reproduced, transmitted or resold in whole or in part in any form, without the prior written consent of the author. All trademarks and registered trademarks appearing in “REVERSE HEARING LOSS” are the property of their respective owners. The owner of this eBook is permitted to print one hardcopy of this eBook for personal use. This rule has been established to prevent unauthorized production and distribution of this eBook. Finally, use your head. Nothing in this Guide is intended to replace common sense, legal, medical or other professional advice, and is meant to inform and entertain the reader. So have fun with “REVERSE HEARING LOSS”, and get your stuff done. Copyright © 2015 - All rights reserved worldwide. 2 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Table of Contents Introduction ............................................................................................................................ 4 The Anatomy of the Ear ..................................................................................................... 5 Hearing Loss ......................................................................................................................... 10 Treating Hearing Loss ....................................................................................................... 23 The Amish Way of Healing .............................................................................................. 35 Effects of Nutrition on Hearing ..................................................................................... 54 Preventing Hearing Loss .................................................................................................. 72 Apps for Hearing Loss....................................................................................................... 85 Resources for Hearing Loss ............................................................................................ 95 Conclusion ............................................................................................................................. 98 15-Day Action Plan ......................................................................................................... 102 3 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Introduction A mong the many blessings of nature, hearing is one that humans can never be grateful for enough; we generally take this sense for granted. It is only when people lose their sense of hearing that they realize how bland and blank that life can become. Understanding the way that our ear works is important in order to grasp how hearing loss is a phenomenon that affects so many people all over the world. The contents of this book target topics that revolve around determining the causes of hearing loss as well as the way it can be treated most effectively. Since this problem has become quite common, a number of treatments are being introduced to treat the ear. Amidst these invasive surgical treatments, many natural ways of healing can restore hearing in a person who loses this capability. In the subsequent chapters of the book, you will read about natural ways like The Amish Way to Healing and Healing Hearing with Nutrition. Both doctors and patients alike often overlook these methods; however, extensive research has shown that natural remedies for hearing loss are both productive and healthy. If your loved one has gone through the terrible trauma of losing their hearing, this book will be a valuable resource for you to learn about and familiarize yourself with the necessary details regarding this condition. You can then stand in a better position to suggest treatment options and to make sure that the patient is being looked after properly with all remedies and areas of improvement being explored. Lastly, you will get to know about the many preventive measures that can be taken to ensure a healthily functioning sense of hearing. These measures range from having a healthy lifestyle and taking proper nutrition, to cleaning the ears regularly and taking a couple of essential exercises into consideration. Alongside these techniques, we will also discuss the many hearing loss apps that can be used by those whose hearing is not totally lost, but may have reduced to some extent. 4 REVERSE HEARING LOSS The Anatomy of the Ear The Sense of Hearing I n the same way that all other structures and processes in the body have an organized and working system, the sense of hearing is also a system with many components and smaller processes to complete it. For a person to hear sound and then communicate information as a response, the entire body has to function in connection to the brain. Although the common statement is that “we hear with our ears”, the functions going on inside the body are highly complicated and work at a deeper level. How does the ear function help you to recognize different types of sounds? How does it record different pitches, volumes and frequencies? 5 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Answering questions like these means understanding the exact anatomy of the ear. Once the many nitty-gritties of the basic bodily functions of our hearing system are understood, then the loss of hearing can be identified easily. As part of the anatomy of the ear, there are two main topics for discussion. 1. Parts of the ear and the hearing system in general 2. The process of hearing (i.e. receiving and processing sound) Parts Of The Ear It will come as a surprise for many that the ear itself is a complicated organ. There are many parts, some that have very important functions and others that are just present for support. While a detailed anatomy is usually on the fingertips of medical professionals, knowing a bit about the structure of the ear is a must for general readers as well. The structure of the ear is divided into three main parts, namely the external, middle and inner sections of the ear. Within each part, various smaller parts work together to receive and process sound. External Ear: The external ear contains two parts: the pinna and the ear canal (external auditory meatus). The pinna is the specifically shaped structure that is made up of soft cartilage and is covered by the skin. This is the entrance to the ear. It is attached to the ear canal, which is 2.5cm in length and 0.7cm in diameter in the average adult. Middle Ear: The parts of the middle ear are connected to the ear canal from the outside. The middle ear contains: 6 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Eardrum Tympanic Cavity Ossicles (three soft bones) o Malleus (also called the hammer is attached to the eardrum o Incus (also called the anvil bridges the gap between the malleus and the stapes o Stapes (also called the stirrup is the footplate, which is the smallest bone in a human. Inner Ear: The inner ear includes a number of important parts: Oval Window: The oval window connects the middle ear to the inner ear. Semicircular Ducts: The semicircular ducts are filled with fluid. They communicate the position of the head to the brain. These ducts play an important role in helping the brain interpret balance. Cochlea: Cochlea is a spiral-shaped structure that converts sounds into signals for the brain to interpret. These signals, when sent to the brain, are broken down into messages and then given to the body to bring about action. Auditory Tube: The auditory tube is a support organ in the inner ear. Its function is to drain excess fluid that collects inside the ears. It is connected to the back of the throat, thus providing the fluid a passage to exit the ear structure. The Process of Hearing The process of hearing involves all the above parts of the ear in combination with the cognitive and processing ability of the brain. Together, this makes 7 REVERSE HEARING LOSS up the sense of hearing. Hence, when discussing the hearing ability in human beings, we will refer to the parts discussed above. Receiving Sound Waves When the ear receives sound, it is sent to the auditory cortex, which is a special region located at the back of the brain that is dedicated to process the sound waves in the body. The most important component of the ear in regards to the reception of sound waves is the eardrum. It is in the eardrum that these waves collect and then travel into the inner ear for processing. While travelling in the eardrum, these waves cause vibrations and make the entire auditory structure vibrate in order to sense the presence of sound. These waves then reach the ossicles, which are three small bones in the middle ear. From here, they are passed on to the cochlea. It is believed that “true hearing” (when a person feels there is noise in their surroundings) begins when the sound waves reach the cochlea. The cochlea transforms sound waves into nervous impulses that are sent to the brain. Since the function of the cochlea is so important, it deserves some detail. Inside the cochlea resides a sensory organ called the corti. An Italian anatomist named Alfonso Corti discovered the corti in 1851. It was discovered that the corti contains 15,000-20,000 sensory cells, each of which has its own tiny hairs. This hair is able to pick up the most sensitive of sounds by detecting minute vibrations in the cochlear fluid. Moreover, each hair is specialized to detect different types of sounds that belong to various frequencies. Combined, they enable human ears to hear sounds belonging to the frequency range of 20 Hz to 20 KHz and a volume range of 5 to 15 decibels. The hairs in the cochlea are extremely sensitive. They need to be cleaned and taken care of very delicately because, once they are destroyed, they will never grow back. The next part of sound processing begins in the brain. When signals are received, the brain interprets them and orders the body to behave in a certain 8 REVERSE HEARING LOSS manner. Each of these behavioral patterns is either previously recorded or is introduced into the body with new sound frequencies. This is the reason why when you hear a sound that the brain has processed previously, you behave exactly how you behaved the previous time. This learning ability of the brain, combined with the hearing process in the various parts of the ears, is what completes the sense of hearing. 9 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Hearing Loss What Causes Hearing Loss? 1. Damage to the inner ear: Any damage caused to the inner structure of the ear results in permanent hearing loss. As mentioned previously, the ossicles and the eardrum are very sensitive parts that can be 10 REVERSE HEARING LOSS damaged even if one cleans the ear too vigorously. Extreme caution and care need to be exercised when inserting a cleaning tool or inspection devices into the ear to make sure that the tiny fragile bones are not disturbed. 2. Abnormal bone growth or tumors: The growth of tumors, even if they are not cancerous, can cause hearing functions to be impaired. A bulging tumor can block the passage of the ear canal, hindering sound waves from reaching the cochlea. Examples of these tumors include osteomas, exostoses, acoustic neuroma and benign polyps. Multiple treatments have been designed to clear the tumors; however, in many cases, only partial hearing is ever restored. 3. Exposure to loud noises: Constant and persistent exposure to loud noises can cause significant damage to the inner ear structures. Such damage is often permanent and leads to hearing loss in people of all ages. Often times, exposure to intense noises cannot be avoided because people work at jobs involving manufacturing, assembly line plants, airplane communication, noises created by motorbikes, and heavy machineries. According to research, more than 30 million Americans are exposed to dangerous levels of noise at work. Ear protectors are the easiest solution to this problem. Apart from work, many unhealthy and undesirable noises are part of the lifestyle choices made by us. For instance, continuously attending concerts and rock shows during which music is played above 100Hz can cause temporary or permanent damage to the eardrum and ossicles only after 15 to 29 minutes of exposure. The same way, if the sound of music and singing is above 85 decibels, it can cause damage to the ear. Tinnitus, which means experiencing continuous ringing in the ears, is usually a result of such exposure. In many cases, tinnitus ceases within a few minutes or hours; however, in many others, it becomes a persistent problem. 11 REVERSE HEARING LOSS 4. Injury or pressure changes: Injuries such as severe head trauma can result in the dislocation of the ossicles, or permanent damage to the nerves running through the ears. Contact sports like wrestling, boxing and rugby are the causes of intensive injuries around the brain and ears. Apart from injury, sudden and massive changes in pressure resulting from activities like scuba diving, flying or swimming without proper gear cause changes in air pressure in the ear canal. While the eardrum does have the ability to heal in a few weeks, if the damage is severe, surgical procedures may be required. 5. Medicines: Did you know that regular use of aspirin increases the risk of hearing loss? Other than this, many intensive medicines like those prescribed for cancer have the power to affect hearing adversely. Whenever such medication is administered, a patient’s hearing is constantly monitored to record distortions and impairment levels. Many times, adverse side effects on hearing clear up after the drug is discontinued. 6. Chronic diseases: Diseases like high blood pressure, diabetes, heart attacks and strokes – all of which have no connection to the ear whatsoever – have the power to affect hearing because they may reduce or interrupt the flow of blood between the inner ear and the brain. As these diseases are chronic, hearing may be lost for good. 7. Use of earphones: The use of earphones and earplugs has gone up considerably. With more and more people listening to loud music and commentaries using headphones that aim the sound waves directly into the inner ear, the chances of inner ear damage have increased considerably. The extent of hearing loss depends on the level of volume and on the duration of listening time. 8. Buildup of Earwax: Earwax is naturally present in the ears for lubrication and protection of the inner structures. Moreover, it also 12 REVERSE HEARING LOSS protects the ear canal against the collection of bacteria and dirt within the ear canal. However, when earwax keeps accumulating, it hardens and consequently leaves an uncomfortable feeling. With a clogged ear, earaches are common and, in more extreme cases, hearing impairment may also occur. Still, removing earwax at home is highly dangerous since poking into the ear can damage the sensitive nerves and hearing organs. If you think you have a clogged ear, it is best to consult a doctor who will use special tools to remove the earwax without causing any pain. 9. Heredity: Is it possible to have hearing impairments, if such a condition is in your genes? Yes, medical research has proven that family history often results in the malformation of the ear and its inner organs. Studies show that almost 70 percent of deafness cases are passed on by recessive genes and 30 percent by dominant genes. Such a case of hearing loss has a very slim chance of being treated. What’s Age Got To Do With Hearing? It is undeniable that hearing loss can happen at any age; the number of young children with hearing aids and ear issues has increased significantly in the last two decades. Data from the U.S. government reveals that close to 5.2 million children between the age of 6 and 19 have impaired hearing because of exposure to unfavorable environments or due to being born with abnormal hearing function. Still, what if you have never been injured or if you have never worked in a facility or environment that is exposed to loud noises. What would be the cause of hearing loss? 13 REVERSE HEARING LOSS According to many studies completed by the National Institute of Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), in the same way that aging affects the overall condition of the body and its organs, it also affects the ears and their inner structure. This means that, as a person ages, the ears age as well; eventually, their function to detect noises deteriorates. This condition is known as presbycusis. An extensive research conducted by NIDCD indicates that one in every three Americans between the age of 65 and 75 suffers from impaired hearing. Those who are 75 and older also have a certain level of deterioration in their hearing levels. These studies conclude that despite all the care you take to keep your ears and their structure safe, as you age, hearing distortion is usually an inevitable result. What does age have to do with hearing? In the previous section, the function of the brain was outlined in great detail. In the hearing process, the brain plays a major role in the processing of sound waves and in the initiation of behavior. A young person’s brain is alert and active; hence, it has a lot of processing power and can interpret thousands of nervous signals at a time. Similarly, the structures in the inner ear are young and in their prime, so detecting even the most minute of sounds in the surroundings. With age, the processing ability of the brain weakens; it understands much less than it used to, thus reducing the capacity to hear. Similar age-related structural changes in the brain are also responsible for confusion that may be felt while deciphering difficult words. These behaviors are quite among the aged and are evidence that hearing is definitely affected by the aging process. What can be done to prevent hearing loss that occurs due to age? Even though the prevention of hearing loss is the topic of discussion in the next few chapters, it is essential to mention here that while age-related hearing loss may not be unavoidable, doctors predict that the onset can be delayed to an extent. Since the main reason for this type of hearing impairment is the 14 REVERSE HEARING LOSS slower functioning of the brain, efforts should be made to keep the brain healthy and strong. Proper nutrition and lots of challenging brain exercises are the key to ensuring that brain cells are active and accustomed to working smoothly under pressure. Auditory exercises and a healthy lifestyle are some sure-shot ways to help detail the effects of aging on hearing. Types of Hearing Damage Identifying the type of hearing damage or loss is the first step towards treating it. Comprehensive Auditory Evaluation (CAE) is necessary to be done before medical professionals can estimate the extent of damage to the outer and inner ears. A couple of tests like the Speech Audiometry Test or the Balance Test are conducted on patients to determine which part of the ear has been affected. Once the results of these tests are evaluated and studied at great lengths, doctors can determine which type of hearing damage the patient is suffering from. There are three main types of hearing losses that have been identified. 1. Conductive Hearing Loss: Conductive hearing loss (CLH) is a conduction that relates to the mechanical movement of sound waves. When this movement is hindered in the form of a blockade or an abnormality that prevents the middle ear from transmitting sound waves to the inner ear, a patient is said to be suffering from conductive hearing loss. When the middle ear’s ability to transmit sound decreases, sound is not recorded by the ear at its true intensity. This means that while the original sound may have been extremely loud, what reaches the inner ear (and the cochlea) is very dim with low intensity, which can also be considered as a distortion of the sound wave. In other words, the true intensity of mechanical energy is not being transmitted in the ear in such a condition. A patient suffering from CHL 15 REVERSE HEARING LOSS cannot hear low voices, minute sounds or far away noises, all of which already have very low intensities. Some causes of CHL are as follows. Malformation of any part of the ear Allergies Tumors Collection of fluid in the middle ear Trapped foreign materials in the ear Infection in the ear canal There are many treatment options for conductive hearing loss. Since it is usually the result of a temporary condition that hampers mechanical energy, most cases of this condition are curable. After a medical or surgical procedure, patients are able to hear fully or partially. In the case that hearing is recovered partially, hearing aids can be used. 2. Sensorineural Hearing Loss: The words “sensory” and “neural” – which together make up the second type of hearing loss – indicate that this is a result of nerve and sensory neuron damage in the inner ear. More specifically, auditory nerve dysfunction results in the loss of hearing in patients suffering from this condition. 16 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Research has revealed that in a case of sensorineural hearing loss, the corti inside the cochlea becomes injured. Other cases include damage to the tiny hairs that are specialized at detecting different types of sounds or a problem with the inner fluids of the ear. Such damage always leads to the sensory inability of the auditory nerves to transmit sound signals to the brain via the auditory pathways. Unlike conductive hearing loss, sensorineural problems do not stop at merely lowering the intensity of sound. Instead, this loss is coupled with low intensity with a complete distortion of the original message, so much so that the hearer cannot determine the exact message even if it is very loud. Common reasons for sensorineural hearing loss are: Toxic drugs Aging Trauma to the head Intensive exposure to loud noises Illnesses like otosclerosis or autoimmune inner ear disease Genetic hearing impairments Virus Encephalitis Meniere’s disease Treating sensorineural hearing loss is not easy. Surgical options are not enough to make the sensory hair work again, nor are they able to build nerve connections to the brain. In most cases, the damage is a permanent condition and no cure has yet been found to reverse the neural shock received by the body. 3. Mixed Hearing Loss: Mixed hearing loss results when the impairment can be detected as being sensorineural, with conductive loss affecting a few parts of the ear. Mixed hearing loss usually signals that the inner and middle ear 17 REVERSE HEARING LOSS have both suffered damage. In other words, the inner ear loses sensory experience while the middle ear reduces the mechanical intensity of sound. The result is a coupled effect of minimal sound detection. Mixed hearing loss cases are worse than both types happening separately; while the mechanical component can be fixed, the sensory and neural one is permanent. The causes of MHL combine both of those related to conductive and sensorineural loss. The many different types of hearing loss conditions are all classified under these three broad categories outlined above. While there are no strict lines, the second type is medically considered the worst of all because it results in pain and uncomfortable feelings for the patient, not to mention that it is also incurable. Conductive and sensorineural are both being researched thoroughly and studied to make constant discoveries about their causes and treatments. Regardless of the type of hearing loss, caution must be exercised when examining the inner ear and when determining the extent of damage done. Since treatment options are based on this examination, audiologists prescribe extensive treatments to be wholly and unconditionally confident about their decision. Can Infections Lead To Hearing Loss? Hearing loss is a result of a number of causes and illnesses. The previous topics have highlighted a number of reasons for hearing loss that can cripple a patient and completely devoid their body of sound. Such conditions, as hard as they are to bear, put the patient at a high risk of other neural and sensory diseases. Hearing loss caused by aging is a phenomenon that is both natural and controllable. However, unlike age-related hearing loss, other more serious 18 REVERSE HEARING LOSS ear conditions are severely damaging to the overall health of the brain and the body. Some of the most commonly occurring hearing disorders are: Cerumen Impaction: This is the medical name for the collection of compressed earwax. As mentioned previously, the collection of hard earwax leads to a hearing distortion that can be fixed by cleaning it. Otitis Externa: Also called swimmer’s ear, this is the inflammation of the outer and middle ear. The target of inflammation is the external auditory canal. Cholesteatoma: Cholesteatoma is the collection of a mass in the middle ear that is made up of squamous cell epithelium and lots of cholesterol. This condition usually affects the middle ear. Otosclerosis: This is a type of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss that is classified by the growth of a long bone-like structure in the ear. This growth fixes the location of the stapes, thus preventing them from vibrating. Trauma: Trauma is another type of hearing disorder that results in severe injury. Infections: Many infections are not easily or directly noticeable. These are caused by infections and misophonic bacteria that raise havoc in the middle and inner ear. In the next topic, the last hearing disorder that is caused by infections inside the ear will be discussed in further detail. Hearing Loss Caused By Infection To make the understanding of hearing loss clearer, we discussed the many causes of all types of hearing losses. It is important to understand that the damage of the ear and its many components can be caused by infections and bacteria-related issues. 19 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Broadly speaking, sound waves do not reach the inner ear when they are being blocked by a hindrance in the ear canal or the eardrum. This hindrance can be the result of numerous instances, such as the insertion of a foreign object, a tumor, or even a serious infection. Many times, the attack made by infectious bacteria can cause irreparable damage to the ear and its inner structures. Infections have the power to give a patient severe earache and might even make them extremely dizzy and uncomfortable. In this regard, the first infection that deprives many people of the ability to hear is called the acute OTITIS media. The most common patients with the OTITIS infection are children. Since they are more active and tend to play in all kinds of outdoor conditions, they are more prone to this infection. Although such an infection in your child’s ear may have passed without any damage many times before, repeated occurrence is a sign of distress. What Is OTITIS Media? OTITIS media is a medical name for the inflammation of the middle ear, and acute OTITIS media is the name of the infection that results from this condition. Studies have shown that acute OTITIS media is the result of a cold or allergy when the body is being attacked by bacteria. When these bacteria host on the body and leave it weak or fragile, it gives the organisms the perfect chance to enter into the small ducts and canals within the body. The presence of bacteria and viruses often result in the collection of pus and mucus, both of which accumulate behind the eardrum. In this location, pus blocks the eustachian tube (auditory tube), hence causing a lot of swelling and pain. In a healthy individual, the eustachian tube should remain 20 REVERSE HEARING LOSS collapsed so that the path to the sensitive middle ear remains closed. However, when it fails to do so, bacteria and other germs in the nose and the throat enter the middle ear easily. The presence of bacteria in the ear has also been attributed to a condition called the upper respiratory disease. Since the ear and the throat are directly connected via the auditory tube, bacteria from the lungs can easily travel to the eardrum. As the bacteria multiply, air is pushed out of the middle ear, creating a vacuum-like condition that sucks in more and more bacteria from the surrounding pathways. Another reason why this ear infection is found mostly in children is that the eustachian tubes in toddlers and adolescents are shorter, horizontal, and straighter. This structural difference makes it even easier for the surrounding bacteria to travel to the ear quickly. In the initial and the last stages of the infection, during the time when the pus is leaking, there is a high chance of fluid collection in the middle ear. This fluid sometimes also finds its way to the pinna, indicating the person that something is wrong with the inner working of the ear. Such a condition is called OTITIS media effusion. If not taken care of, these fluids can collect in the ear for weeks, thus causing the infection to worsen and permanently affect the hearing ability of the patient. As a standard, if fluids remain in the middle ear for more than three months and hearing is impaired for six weeks at a stretch, you should get your patient tested by an Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) specialist. How Does It Affect Hearing? Regardless of the extent of acute OTITIS media, hear loss and impairment is inevitable. Since the collection of fluids creates an imbalance in the ear, conversion of sound waves into signals and then transmission of these signals is adversely affected. Children and adults with this infection experience a loss of hearing of about 24 decibels. 21 REVERSE HEARING LOSS In mathematical terms, 24 decibels is equal to a loud whisper. This means that those affected by this ear infection cannot identify or interpret whispers. It should be noted that the intensity and consistency of the fluids in the ear vary from one patient to the next. If the pus and fluids are of a thicker consistency, the 24 decibels increase to 45 decibels, thus increasing the extent of hearing loss greatly. In children, detecting acute OTITIS media is not easy. However, certain signs and symptoms have been listed that help parents, guardians and doctors in detecting the infection in children. These include: Misunderstanding speech Talking louder than normal Ignoring moderate sound levels and volumes Exhibiting a delayed development in speech Misunderstanding of messages and hearing muffled voices can be a very dangerous condition in a school-going child. A child that cannot process the most basic instructions in a classroom setting will be unable to stay abreast with academic work and expectations. At an age when mental and cognitive development is at its peak, an acute OTITIS media infection can make the path to learning very difficult, thus resulting only in an extremely slow and unresponsive development and learning levels in a child that only leads to delayed language and skill development. 22 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Treating Hearing Loss What are my options? O nce a patient has been diagnosed with hearing problems, the most common solution suggested by doctors is the use of a hearing aid. However, before a patient is advised to proceed with any kind of treatment, it is very important for the doctor to first diagnose the exact symptoms and root cause of the problem; the risk of further damage to hearing is minimized and prevented. There are a number of available 23 REVERSE HEARING LOSS treatment options, from being medically supported by a professional to utilizing more natural and organic cures. Depending on the nature and extent of the problem, most of the disorders related to hearing loss have medical cures. However, in a few cases of higher severity, it is highly challenging to cure this ailment, especially in those patients that are suffering from irreversible hearing disorders that may be caused by inherited genes or by traumatic accidents. With the recent advancements in audiology, there are now many possible treatments for such patients. In these treatments, such patients may not be able to regain their hearing ability completely, but they may be able to discern various sounds to a certain extent. This advancement in hearing loss treatment is a big leap forward for such patients; researchers are trying their best to aid them with the most accessible treatment options. While these cases may be severe, there are numerous ways through which you can avoid hear loss and may even prevent it completely, especially when you age or when you are bound to deal with occupational noise. Taking a well-balanced diet, preferably enriched with a combination of anti-oxidation components, is the best way to prevent hearing loss and any other associated disorders. Natural Hearing Since using hearing aids can be uncomfortable and uneasy, most patients tend to avoid their usage. Many people are actually unaware of the fact that there are more natural ways of controlling hearing problems, and even of preventing such problems from further damaging your ear. The best herb recommended for prevention is Gingko Biloba, which is believed to prevent cochlear damage and other associated disorders, along with lubrication of the neurological functions of our bodies. It has been observed that hearing loss may occur from head trauma or neck damage; so, treating such distresses may result in curing hearing problems in those patients. As mentioned before, a well-balanced diet also keeps your hearing preserved. It is best to avoid animal fat and replace it with refined 24 REVERSE HEARING LOSS sources of carbohydrates. Consuming cold-water fish enriched with omega3 fatty acids regulates the blood supply of your ear in the same way that it regulates the whole circulation system in the rest of the body. Include fresh juices, vegetables, fruits, fiber-associated foods, seeds and herbs in your daily diet, which are all very useful and effective in conserving your hearing. Also, cut down on your salt intake; excessive salt in your daily diet can cause fluids to retain inside your ear, which may consequently develop into a hearing disorder. The use of foods that are rich in vitamin A and E are the best way of preserving your hearing. It will not only help in protecting your hearing, but will also prevent you from developing any hearing disorders. Doctors may advise their patients to utilize supplements rich in various types of vitamins in order to protect your hearing from developing any associated problems. Medical Treatment There are many associated hearing disorders related to your ear, and each type requires a different set of medication. In severe cases, surgery may be required. For conductive hearing loss – in which the middle ear bones are damaged – surgery is the most common medical solution offered to such patients. For patients who might be suffering from some form of bacterial infection in their ear or from a blockage of earwax, antibiotics are advised in order to clear away all the bacterial growth present within the ear. If a person is diagnosed with a case of permanent hearing loss, which is condition commonly found in people who have aged above 80 years, then using a hearing aid is the best available option for them. In other cases, hearing assistance devices and associated technologies are also recommended to patients suffering from hearing loss as a good alternative to hearing devices. With the advancement of hearing aid technology, a cochlear implant is proving to be an innovative invention of helping people with a severe and irreversible form of hearing loss. The cochlear implant may not make patients 25 REVERSE HEARING LOSS completely able to hear speech clearly and loudly, but it assures a miraculous sound travel and the discerning ability to stir up in their ears. Healing Through Nutrition Antioxidants, such as vitamin A and E, are some of the highly recommended food components that should be consumed for preserving and protecting hearing abilities. They are known to neutralize the oxygen value up to the normal limit that is required by your body. Similarly, it also helps to maintain oxygen levels in our ear for the maintenance of good hearing abilities. The most popular antioxidant-enriched foods are leafy vegetables, lentils, dried beans and bananas. Vitamin C is found in berries, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cantaloupes, cauliflowers, peppers (red, green and yellow), tomatoes, strawberries, sweet potatoes, papayas, snow peas, grapefruits, honey dew, kale, kiwis, mangoes, turnips, nectarines and peaches. Vitamin E is found in sunflower seeds, spinach, pumpkins, red peppers, broccoli, carrots, chard, mustard, turnip greens, mangoes and nuts. Vitamin B-12 is very important for your nerves and associated cells. It has been observed that people who have low levels of vitamin B-12 are more likely to develop hearing loss and other disorders as they age. In addition, food enriched with vitamin D can help in conserving your hearing ability and it is mostly found in food such as milk, salmon, tofu, eggs and salami. It helps in maintaining your bone density ratio, which can then shield you against the development of diseases like osteoporosis. It is also observed that people who consume a diet that is abundant in omega-3 fatty acids are more likely to successfully shield themselves from losing hearing sense. These fatty acids are found in cold-water fish and fish oil. Nutritionists may advise patients who are in danger of developing hearing disorders to begin taking fish oil capsules in order to overcome the symptoms and preserve their sense of hearing. 26 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Food containing generous amounts of magnesium plays a vital role in protecting your inner ear bones, especially if they are at risk of being damaged during loud sound exposures. Magnesium is found in bananas, artichokes, broccoli, soybeans and squash. It is believed that zinc has the power of protecting your hearing ability from diseases like tinnitus, cochlear damage and other related syndromes. Zinc is found richly in foods such as red meat, poultry, beans, cooked oysters, seafood, whole grains, fortified cereal, dairy products, chocolate, mushrooms, spinach and cashews. Selenium is abundantly found in fortified breads, tuna, Brazil nuts, beef, poultry products and grains. Food rich in beta-carotene and other carotenoids are watermelons, tomatoes, tangerines, sweet potatoes, apricots, asparagus, beets, broccoli, cantaloupes, carrots, corn, spinach, squash, pumpkins, pink grapefruit, peaches, nectarines, kale, mangoes and green peppers. Other foods rich in antioxidants are beans, eggplants, prunes, onions, alfalfa sprouts, red grapes, plums, raisins and apples. Amish healing The Amish community is renowned for their traditional ways of life and use of natural remedies in curing ailments, as well as in preventing them. They use a variety of medical herbs in ointments, poultices, salves, tea and bitter tonics for this purpose. Folk medicine plays an essential role in the Amish ways of creating cures for all sorts of ailments. It has been observed that these folk medicines most commonly comprise of corn silk and pumpkin seeds. A number of the most popular remedies for ear infections practiced by the Amish community are described as follows. 27 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Ear candle - The Amish people use the traditional ear candles for clearing out wax from ears. This is done by covering one end of dowel rod with a linen cloth that has been dipped into melted paraffin wax. Once the paraffin wax cools down, you can remove the dowel rod. Then, you can put the pointed cone-shaped tip covered with paraffin wax inside the ear by lighting the other end with fire. For this, the patient needs to sit upright so that the wax does not drip inside the ear when it melts. This process is a very old technique of clearing out extra wax from the ear and it is still practiced by the Amish. Garlic - Garlic has exceptional pain-relieving abilities that are regularly used by the Amish for ear infections; it has antimicrobial constituents that are extremely useful in curing such infections. It is used in the form of garlic oil, which is extracted by using a couple garlic cloves and heating it in two tablespoons of sesame oil or mustard oil. When the solution turns black, it is strained. A few hot drops of this solution are used to clear away the infection. These drops can also be mixed with other drops to have a speedier cure for the ear infection. Salt - Salt is the most common and readily available home remedy for relieving pain and controlling infection in your ears. For this, you need to heat a cup of salt on a pan. When it is sufficiently heated, put the salt in a sock, or cover it with a cloth and tie the end with a rubber band. Then, lay down and press the cloth-covered salt bundle on your infected ear, doing so while the salt is still quite warm. This will help in extracting the infected fluid from your ear and in easing the pain that is caused by the infection. Basil - Basil leaves are also known to relieve pain that is a result of an ear infection. A few basil leaves are crushed and their juice is extracted. This juice is applied around or over the ear by making sure it does not 28 REVERSE HEARING LOSS enter your ear canal. Another technique is to mix the basil leaf oil with mustard oil. You can then dip a cotton ball into the oil mixture and apply it around the ear as well as within the outer lining of the ear. Olive oil - Olive oil is considered to play the best role in clearing out wax blockage within the ears. When extra wax blocks the ears, it may give an opportunity for infections to develop and cause painful aching in the ears. Olive oil is usually heated and then applied as drops into the ear when it is still warm. When these drops of oil are exposed to the earwax, it melts the wax instantly and the ear canal passage starts to clear out. You can then clean the ear canal with cotton swabs. It is important to note here that being careful with ear swabs is essential as the eardrum could easily be damaged accidentally. Using warm mustard oil can also give the same positive results. Apple cider - Apple cider vinegar is very useful in treating infections that are caused by fungal growth inside the ear. Apple cider vinegar is mixed with an equal amount of water quantity. You can then dip a cotton swab in the mixture and place it on your ear, keeping it there for about five minutes. After that, remove the cotton swab. You will notice the infectious fluid draining out of your ear. You can repeat this process after regular time intervals, until the whole infection is removed from the ear. Onion - The consumption of onion your daily diet routine plays a vital role in preventing hearing loss and other associated diseases. Similarly, onion juice is also used for clearing out infectious fluid from the ear canal. You can chop up a small onion and heat it in a microwave for about ten minutes. Use the onion juice inside your ear for five to seven minutes and turn your head to a side to let the fluid from the infection drain out of your ear. You can also use a baked onion by covering it up in a piece of cloth and placing it over your ear for ten minutes. Repeat the process until fluid from your ear’s infection has completely drained out. 29 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Warm water - Applying heat to the infected area helps in relieving the any pain that is associated with that infection. For quick pain-relief remedy, you can always use a piece of cloth that has been dipped into lukewarm water, or you can place a warm water bottle against your infected ear to ease the uncomfortable feelings. It should be noted here that heat must not be applied consecutively to the infected ear, since it may cause further damage. Instead, it is advised to apply heat at regular intervals so that you can get relief from pain while keeping your ear canal risk-free from further damage. Breast milk - Breast milk is known to be enriched with natural antibodies that fight against all sorts of infections. It is particularly used to cure ear infections. You can use a dropper to add a few drops of breast milk inside the infected ear and then repeat the process after every four to five hours. Within two to three days, pain will be relieved considerably. Breast milk is also used in curing eye infections and minor cuts. Mango leaf juice - The Amish community regards mango leaf juice as a highly responsive treatment for ear infections and associated pain. You can crush or grind a few mango leaves to extract the juice and put it into your infected ear with the help of a dropper. It is best advised to use this juice by warming it a little. When this juice enters your ear canal, it works as an instant pain reliever and drains the infected fluid out of the ear. Tea tree oil - Tea tree oil is believed to have adequate antibacterial abilities and it is specially used in treating infected ears and earaches. It is used by making a mixture of three drops of tea tree oil, two tablespoons of olive oil, one teaspoon of colloidal silver and one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar. This mixture is then warmed up and is put inside the infected ear with the help of a dropper, where it will now remain until the mixture settles. You then need to turn your head to drain out the mixture as well as the infected fluid out of the ear; the pain will be eased swiftly. It is required to repeat this process after every 30 REVERSE HEARING LOSS few hours and for two to three days altogether in order to completely eliminate the ear infection. Nutrition and Hearing Loss What are antioxidants? Antioxidants are natural substances that play a vital role in the efficient development of cellular structures of our bodies. They help in preventing adverse effects of free radicals. Free radicals are substances that are released when food components are broken down into energy components; they may enter the bloodstream, thus creating risks of developing diseases like heartrelated disorders or even cancers. Antioxidants shield our cells from such intruding substances and protect our bodies from multiple different diseases. How essential are they for cellular development in our bodies? In scientific terms, an antioxidant is a molecule that inhibits the oxidation of other molecules. When your body needs to put up its best defense against Mother Nature or when any part of your body is exposed to the environment for damage, antioxidants jump in. It is important to understand here that old cells die and new cells are born; this is a very natural process carried out in your body 24 hours a day. When a cell dies, it is replaced by new ones. When your body metabolizes oxygen, it has been observed that there is a one to two percent chance of cell damage occurring during that process, and those damaged cells may then turn into free radicals. These free radicals are sources of trouble and may damage your body functions. They are called free radicals because they are lacking a crucial molecule, and looking for a partner molecule to get associated with in order to obtain energy and growth potential. These free radicals may set up on the journey of killing cells, but this is not particularly harmful as your body will regenerate new ones to replace them. 31 REVERSE HEARING LOSS The only concern is that sometimes, while killing a cell, a free radical may also damage the DNA structure of cell. This could consequently expose you to a number of associated diseases. Hence, this is where antioxidants come into action and protect your cellular development process, as well as their delicate structure, against the rampage of free radicals. They also help to maintain a healthy blood flow, which goes on to help in keeping your body organs intact and efficient. Antioxidants are abundantly found in fruits and vegetables. It is observed that people who consume more fruits and vegetables as core parts of their daily diet are less likely to remain protected from diseases. Still, this is not a proven fact. Antioxidants include components such as vitamins A, C and E, selenium, lycopene, lutein, beta-carotene. Therefore, foods that are rich in such components are unarguably essential for keeping the anti-oxidation process working effectively. How do antioxidants help in preventing hear loss? It is believed that when your body takes a sufficiently rich diet with vitamins A, C and E alongside healthy doses of magnesium, you become prone to exposure of loud noise. Moreover, you are effectively protected from permanent hearing loss and other associated disorders. In previous research, it was believed that hearing loss problems might develop from exposure to loud sounds or damaging noises, since this would harm your inner ear’s hair cells that are responsible for carrying out sensory hearing. However, recent research has shown that hear loss actually occurs from the formation of free radicals in the inner ear cellular structures, which is responsible for molecular binding that could cause the death of other cells. Hence, the best solution available for such problems is to conserve your hearing by keeping your anti-oxidation process streamlined. For these reasons, it is recommended that people who work at noisy places where they are required to be exposed to loud sounds, or those attending noisy events or using earplugs for music, that they consume an antioxidantrich diet, supplements or a pill. This will act as a strong force of resistance 32 REVERSE HEARING LOSS against the oxidation process and the rise of free radicals in your bloodstream. According to research, exposure to cancer chemotherapeutic agents like cisplatin and the use of antibiotics for an extended period can also cause hearing loss in patients, for the same underlying reasons. Antioxidants consumed through natural products such as vegetables and fruits and other magnesium-enriched diets are the most suitable sources, but now it is also available in forms of supplements and pills. It is best that you take these supplements or pills with the prescription of a doctor, who will advise you exactly how much is required for you to consume, depending on your state of hearing ability. Using A Combination Of Antioxidants The use of antioxidant therapy for the prevention of hearing loss is believed to be working successfully as it has helped quite a number of patients who were developing hearing loss or were suffering from tinnitus and other related disorders. A number of studies revealed that out of all the components blended in antioxidant structures, vitamin E is the starring factor. It not only helps in preventing hear loss, but it also helps in gaining it back. This is particularly true for patients who suffered a sudden idiopathic hear loss, noise-induced cochlear damage and cisplatin-induced cochlear damage. In addition, a supplement with combination of vitamin E, vitamin C, beta-carotene and phosphatides are observed to solve the issues of discomfort for patients suffering from idiopathic tinnitus. With the help of research, it has been concluded that using a single antioxidant for preventing hear loss may not be doing as much good as expected. It is advised to use a combination of antioxidants in supplements or as pills for such patients. This is because the use of a simple antioxidant may act as a pro-oxidation component in the process, especially in patients who smoke or consume heavy quantities of tobacco. Conclusively, it is best that an antioxidant-enriched diet should be consumed for protecting yourself from hearing disorders like tinnitus and other forms of cochlear damage. Furthermore, for the standard therapy of such disorders, 33 REVERSE HEARING LOSS patients are recommended to use supplements that are a combination of antioxidant components, which will create a more powerful shield against the free radicals and overcome the general hearing problems in a more effective and harmless manner. 34 REVERSE HEARING LOSS The Amish Way of Healing Brief History of Amish People T he history of the Amish dates back to 1693. Their origins have been traced back to Switzerland, where a man Jakob Ammann started the Amish traditions. Initially, this movement began as a way to restore some of the lost values of the Mennonite Faith. Those who followed Ammann and his teachings were then known as the Amish. There is a certain level of controversy regarding who the Amish are. Since they have always maintained a low profile, many believe that these people belong to the: Conservative Protestants Block The Anabaptists Clan The European Free Church Family Despite all these assumptions, the Amish have very strict values and their belief system revolves around the writings of Menno Simons. However, as 35 REVERSE HEARING LOSS time went by, the Amish split from the Mennonites during the 17th century because the latter ‘lacked discipline in their faith.’ From here on, the Amish were recognized as a separate clan. In the 18th century, many of the Amish people migrated to the United States and settled in different areas. Today, most of them are found in Pennsylvania, New York, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa and Missouri Ohio. Living in modern societies, the Amish try to hold onto centuries old European Values that they learnt from their leader. Perhaps, what is most striking about the Amish is the staunchness of their faith. They are known to live simply, dress down with plain, unprinted clothes and like to adopt as little of modern technology as possible. The reason very few Amish clans exist today is that membership to the Amish is not open to one and all. Membership begins with Baptism in the church between the ages of 16 and 25. Once admitted to the church, Amish are only allowed to marry within their people. Attendance at Sunday church sessions is mandatory and people are prohibited to use automobiles, telephone lines or the public Social Security services. Staunch followers are also not allowed to serve in the military. The emphasis on family relations is heavy and the Amish prefer to stay aloof from modern citizens belonging to America and Canada. Over the years, as the Amish progressed in their beliefs that were so different from others around them; they developed their own ways of living, teaching, socializing and healing. While it wasn’t uncommon for olden tribes and communities to have their own healing leaders who performed distinct practices to bring health to a sick person; the Amish stand aloof because they widely practice the same healing methods even today. All healing techniques used by this group of people align well with their own belief system. Staying away from modernization and societal developments is at the heart of the Amish Culture; hence, the same values are also reflected in the way they conduct their healing procedures. 36 REVERSE HEARING LOSS The Amish way of healing revolves around folk medicine. These remedies are self-created at home using domestic ingredients like teas, powders, liniments and other foods that have been part of the community for decades. These foods are mixed, churned and combined; with their essence extracted for the sick ones. These can be used to control and cure skin diseases, rashes, digestive problems, heart problems, headaches and many more conditions for which the modern man seeks professional medical help. Such traditional means of healing emphasize the power of herbal ingredients in the face of modern day medicines. After all, the effectiveness of these ingredients is the reason why the Amish still believe in folk remedies. Not only do they discourage using professional help; they do not need it either because the power of folk, herbal and homeopathic medicines has made them self-sufficient when it comes to curing and healing various illnesses. Coupled with the herbal cures, another strong healing methodology among the Amish is called, Powwowing. Powwowing belongs to the German Amish ancestry. In simple words, this term translates into ‘Sympathy Healing’, which is done with the use of chants, amulets, charms and physical manipulations to the body of a sick man. There is some controversy regarding the efficacy of Powwowing in different sects among the Amish as well. However, in most, this method is used in conjunction with herbal cures to initiate healing. Both these methods combined, the Amish have managed to stay away from modern medicine quite successfully for a number of reasons. For one, they do not have health insurance, nor do they believe in it. As a result, nontraditional treatments are very costly for them. Secondly, they do not use modern day transport. Covering miles in an Amish Buggy to reach a hospital is not only inconvenient; it is unthinkable for most adults of the tribes. Lastly, doing so can often result in the shunning of families because a strong tribal principle is ‘avoidance of the world.’ The Amish ways of healing have gained immense popularity over the years. As the world talks about noninvasive cures to ailments and turns towards the power of herbs and plants; the Amish healing methodology attracts attention. 37 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Amish publications, like The Budget, are a great source of information on the various healing methods that they use. Such gazettes are now available in many modern bookstores, again because of the same popularity of folk remedies and culture. This is not to say that the Amish way to healing always works. There are definitely some highs and lows in this type of medicine as well. However, its natural roots, non-invasive nature and minimal side effects is what makes such healing methods a high priority among those who believe in the power of alternative medical cures. The Amish Way Of Dealing With Hearing Loss How do the Amish deal with hearing loss? It is now apparent that people belonging to this group would hardly contact a modern day hospital facility to get their ears checked. While many of those who are less staunch in the beliefs do visit doctors for monthly checkups of their toddlers; those with very strict values stay clear of anything that is mainstream. In light of this, how do the Amish treat hearing loss? What are their practices and how do they involve the use of herbs in a medical field as complicated, yet sensitive, as hearing? Most of all, can modern scientific discoveries provide proof to assert that herbal cures do favorably affect hearing loss? There is a lot to explore and discover in the Amish Way of Treating hearing Loss. It would not be incorrect to say that the belief in this system is at best divided among those who consider nature powerful enough to cure hearing loss, and those who disregard its involvement completely. However, in our quest to find cures for hearing loss, the Amish way begs to be explored and considered. Since the Amish have successfully used herbal concoctions and recipes for years, their efficacy is somewhat established in the world of alternative 38 REVERSE HEARING LOSS medicine. There have been hundreds of success stories that assert that the use of herbs for treating hearing loss is, in fact, credible. The typical Amish way of dealing with hearing loss involves mixing a lot of herbs, each with its own beneficial properties. These herbs are used in their raw form, are boiled and then cooled so that their extracts can be squeezed out. Decades ago, when the Amish started developing their own alternative medical methodology; the number of herbs available was very limited. Today, when a plethora of herbs from one part of the world are available in the other, there are plenty of Amish cures for hearing loss that can be studied and applied in life. Dr. Christopher, an esteemed herbal physician and researcher has conducted various studies to experiment with herbs and conclude the benefits of each on human health; especially ear infections, aches and hearing loss. According to him, most herbs for hearing loss should be used with a ‘B&B Tincture’ solution that acts as an antibacterial agent and clears up infections within a matter of days. Herbs like garlic oil, mullein and ginkgo are highly beneficial; so much so that many patients who were considered deaf at birth were cured with these herbs combined with the tincture. Similarly, those who experienced sudden deafness because of injury or rupture of the eardrum were also cured with herbal concoctions prepared by the physician. These patients felt depressed with life because they could no longer perform even the smallest tasks like talking on the phone, having a conversation with friends or reply to a basic query. With the Amish treatments, their ear injuries, infections and pains were treated painlessly. Like any other alternative remedy, Amish cures to hearing loss do not turn up results in a day, a week or even a month. These treatments are supposed to be carried on for many months in a stretch for any difference to be seen. Dr. Christopher suggests a minimum of six months for the B&B Tincture and Garlic Oil method to give results. 39 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Moreover, a strict routine should be adopted to make sure that the potions recommended are used on a daily basis or even more frequently- as prescribed. No two patients are alike; hence, varying periods of treatment and cure are needed for the body to respond slowly and gradually. Amish hearing loss treatments have been made part of several Deafness Programs offered in Educational and Development Institutions. People who have been deaf for more than 12 to 15 years are often enrolled in these programs to help them exercise and lead a better life. With the Amish treatments, such programs have enabled chronically deaf individuals to hear again without the use of hearing aids. There are plenty of testimonials that reveal that effectiveness of Amish Herbal Remedies for hearing loss. One woman using these healing remedies reported that when her husband was struck by lightening in 1940. Since then he lost his hearing ability for the next 40 years. While hearing aids did help to an extent, the quality of life for the couple deteriorated drastically, with the husband being reduced to a fully dependent individual. After reading about the Amish Way to Hearing Loss, the woman started a strict regime defined by Dr. Christopher. Using a combination of B&B Tincture, Garlic Oil and Apple Cider Vinegar, she was able to help her husband within a short span of only 2 weeks. Not only could be hear again, he felt life being put into him again. Herbs And Amish Healing Being part of herbal and alternative medicine, the Amish cures to hearing loss make use of concoctions that are made from simple herbal combinations. Remember, simplicity is the core of Amish teachings. Hence, the same is reflected in the way herbal remedies are made and used. These can be understood by taking into account how some of the most commonly available ingredients work and what their specialties are. Before going into various success stories, testimonials and healing recipes, let’s take a look at some of the most popular herbs and ingredients used by the Amish for healing hearing loss. What makes our belief staunch in these 40 REVERSE HEARING LOSS herbs is the fact their first use is documented in history way before the Amish tribes emerged… Amish Herbs for Hearing Loss While there are thousands of herbs that are used in alternative medicine to cure ear infections, aches and inflammation; the most popular ones have been discussed in this topic to create an understanding of the Amish way of Hearing Loss. 1. Ginkgo According to historical records, ginkgo was first used in 3500 B.C as a cure for respiratory problems and heart disease. Since then, the herb has been used in many situations by various factions and societies who assert their belief in it even today. Over the years, Ginkgo also became popular as an herb that had the power to increase the flow of blood in the small nerves and vessels in the inner ear. In his book, The Healing Herbs, Michael Castleman has praised Ginkgo for its abilities to improve hearing and reduce the condition of Tinnitus- also known as ‘ringing in the ears.’ Ginkgo is best used in conditions when hearing loss is sudden and is usually the result of clogged arteries. There have been several studies that have confirmed the benefits of this herb for improving hearing. In one study, 106 participants with known hearing loss were enrolled. Half of the participants were given a very low dosage of Ginkgo Extract, close to 12mg twice daily; while the remaining half were given a dose of 120mg of Ginkgo Extract twice daily. The former being a negligible amount, was considered the Placebo group, i.e. a control for the experiment. 41 REVERSE HEARING LOSS After the 8 weeks of the trial, doctors were surprised to see that participants of both groups had recorded recovery and improvement in the ability to hear. Regardless of the amount of Ginkgo given, people with sudden hearing loss recovered remarkably when Ginkgo was used. 2. Echinacea Echinacea flowers are a native plant of North America. The Indians living on the northern plains have used them for centuries as a wound healer. After years of use, in 1800, Echinacea caught attention of the Europeans who prescribed it for a number of other ailments. Since then, a lot of research has been done on this herb and its hidden healing properties. Within the petals of the Echinacea plant are juices that are rich in antibiotics and antiviral properties- both of which can be used to treat inner ear infections. As mentioned in previous chapters, middle and inner ear infections that cause inflammation and pus can lead to hearing loss. Instead of treating these infections with modern antibiotics, the Amish prefer to use Echinacea and its natural antibiotics to clear away infections and reduce swelling. Owing to these properties, the herb also dries out the fluid in the inner ear, hence preventing clogging of the ear canal. Once the inflammation is reduced and the fluid is out of the way, sound waves reach the cochlea uninterrupted. Apart from its antibiotic properties, Echinacea is also an immune booster. With a dose of 400mg on a daily basis, this herb spikes the immune system, preparing it to deal with foreign bacteria and viral attacks in a more forceful manner. With a strong immune system, the body is in a better shape to reduce the damage done by infections in the ear. 42 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Now that Echinacea has entered the mainstream herbal market, its use and benefits are renowned in alternative medicine circles. In the United States, Echinacea has been declared safe to use by the Food and Drug Administration as well. 3. Oregon Grape Known as Berberis Aquifolium in ancient times, Oregon Grape is a very effective herb used in alternative medicine. It contains an antibiotic called Berberine that is very effective against the bacteria that settle in the inner ear. With a regular dose of Oregon Grape, those who have a hearing problem can feel relieved as the infection reduces and hearing is fully or partially restored. A dosage of 600mg is advisable for patients who are otherwise healthy. Oregon Grape may not be suitable for pregnant women. 4. Ginger and Garlic Another name for garlic is Allium Sativum. Mostly used in Pan Asian Cuisines, Garlic is one of the most common herbs found easily in every home. Many American research journals relate Chinese history in which garlic was used widely as a healer for war wounds. Similarly, during the two world wars, Garlic was used extensively on soldiers who were badly injured. Garlic extract contains natural immune strengthening properties. It is an antiviral and an antibacterial and is most effective against cold and flu causing bacteria that mostly settle in the cavity of the ear. A dose of 500-600 mg Garlic that contains 4-5mg of Allium is the best cure for ear infections. According to Castleman, Ginger has much of the same antibacterial quality as Garlic. It is highly effective against clogging of nerves in the inner ear and helps restore hearing by preventing damage done to the nerves in the inner ear that relay sound to the brain. Moreover, Ginger is also known for anti43 REVERSE HEARING LOSS inflammatory properties that reduce swelling of the pinna and the inner structures. Garlic and Ginger Oils are administered via an ear-dropper. 5. Lemon Balm Also called, Melissa officinalis, Lemon Balm is a great anti-biotic for healing open wounds. Along with antiviral properties, this herbal ingredient also has soothing effects that naturally calm the nerves and reduce inflammation. Since lemon balm is used for a number of conditions, the dosage depends on the extent and type of problem under question. For ear infections, lemon balm can be taken in the form of capsules or its extracts can also be used. Lemon balm oil is put in the ear, which are then plugged and concealed so that the liquid can soothe the inner ear and reduce inflammation of the outer pinna. 6. Onion or Onion Juice Onion is a very effective ingredient for hearing loss and ear infections. According to Dr. Christopher, it can be used by people who suffer from hearing loss due to infections, inflammations and sudden pressure changes. Onion is also one of the best herbal and home ingredients to use for earaches. Dr. Christopher recommends using Onion in this manner: 1. Put an onion in the oven and turn on the heat at 450 degrees. 2. Let the onion heat for about 15-20 minutes. Then let it cool in the oven until it can be handled. 3. Once cooled, take it out and cut it into half. 4. If an adult is using this recipe, both halves of the baked onion should be strapped to the ears and left over night. 5. In case this is not possible or if a child has a terrible earache, squeeze the onion lightly, taking out its juice in a small bowl. 44 REVERSE HEARING LOSS 6. Using an ear dropper put a few drops of juice in both ears- regardless of which one is aching. 7. Put cotton balls in the ear to make sure the juice stays in for a while. Using onion in this manner is not only cost effective; it is also the best way to soothe earaches in toddlers. Owing to inflammation and infections in the ear, a baby may experience a lot of pressure in the ear canal, making him uncomfortable and itchy. Onion juice works like a miracle in such situations and calms down the baby in a matter of minutes. 8. Chamomile Chamomile is an essential oil that is used for its soothing and calming properties. The oil is also rich in natural antibacterial that not only soothes an ear infection; it also prevents it from spreading further into the ear. When used on its own, only a few drops of Chamomile are enough to relieve earaches and ear infections. If Chamomile oil is unavailable, Dr. Christopher suggests that warm chamomile tea can also be used by cooling it down to room temperature and dipping cotton balls in it. Insert the cotton in both ears and let it stay overnight. 9. Lobelia The first use of Lobelia dates back to the 17th century. Apart from other uses, it is famous for curing middle ear infections owing to its antispasmodic properties, which relax nerves and clears away infections. Its use is known to be in conjunction with garlic or mullein flowers. It is usually used in the form of a tincture. 10. Hops 45 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Hops are the female part of the herbal plant, Humulus Lupulus that is used for many medical conditions. Apart from treating digestive problems and insomnia, Hops are also used to soothe ear infections and prevent them from spreading to the inner ear and nervous system. This herb can be used as a tincture or as an extract- both of which are taken out after boiling and heating the herb. Dr. Christopher suggests placing a bag of heating hops over the ears of an adult who is suffering from earaches and infections. 11. Mullein Mullein is herb-plant from the Figwot family. This herb is native to Asia and Europe, but is now easily available in many other parts of the world. Having more than 250 different species, Mullein is an exotic herb that is used in various medical treatments. Mullein has antibacterial properties that make it the perfect antidote to cold, flues and earaches that are caused by bacterial and fungal infections. It is used as an astringent and a soothing agent that reduces inflammation and swelling in the ears, and also helps restore hearing in patients who are otherwise healthy. To use for earaches, Mullein oil is extracted from the yellow flowers of the herb. This oil is then stored, warmed and put in the ears with the help of cotton balls. Who Can Perform Amish Healing Just like modern medicine is practiced by a professional and learned doctor, Amish Healing should only be performed by someone who has knowledge of religion and is capable of directing its healing powers towards the sick. Even though the healing methods with herbs sound easy to undertake; they require a certain level of expertise and professionalism that a layman lacks. As mentioned previously, Amish healing is done with herbs, and it is coupled with Powwowing-a chanting and charm system that heals spiritually. To 46 REVERSE HEARING LOSS perform Powwowing, one needs a lot of information, knowledge and experience with chants and charms. For instance, the Amish have different chants for every ailment, disease and condition. Amulets and charms that have various types of stones, natural gems and writings on them are specific to the kind of condition being cured. Such knowledge is very important because performing a wrong spiritual healing procedure is believed to bring about side effects and worsen the condition, in extreme cases. Moreover, since only a few Amish tribes now practice Powwowing, the chants and charms used belong to the ancient times when this method of healing was more prevalent. Words and phrases used in the chants reflect a strong belief in the Amish Church, its principals and values. Hence, even if one is a staunch Amish, he may not qualify to put together specific words and phrases without knowing what they mean. Moreover, the number of times a chant is spoken is also of great importance in the Amish tradition. For instance, a chant for a very strong and persistent headache is different from one that is said for a mild and occasional ache. Similarly, when using herb and concoctions, an Amish healer has to be mindful of the kind of herbs used and their quantities. Even though the chances of experiencing side effects are slim, many herbs should not be used during pregnancies or if one has pain in the kidneys or has an eye condition such as cataract. Hence, determining the usability and feasibility of each herb and oil is something that requires adequate knowledge of alternative cures and healing processes. For this reason, Amish healing is usually only performed by a Faith Leader. An Amish Faith Leader belongs to the Old Order Amish and holds a strong believe that ‘faith’ is a healing medicine for all ailments. This leader is believed to have the power and knowledge of the unseen because he can look into the eyes of the patient or touch him lightly to understand the ailments and health conditions he is suffering from. 47 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Such a leader is also well versed in the olden day Amish healing techniques that were introduced and practiced by leaders of ancient times. An Amish Faith Leader is known to give ‘nutritional guidance with the help of the bible’ and he does not charge for his services. He does not have a degree in medical science to support his healing practices; however, for the Amish a staunch belief in God and natural ways of healing is enough proof of credibility. Owing to the popularity of Amish Healing and Herbal Concoctions, an Amish Faith Leader receives patients even outside the Amish Clans. To him, all people are equal, without any discrimination against religion, sect, race or culture. Most Common Amish Recipes for Hearing Loss After reading so much about Amish herbs and ingredients, aren’t you wondering how these should be used? While only an Amish Faith Leader can perform Amish Healing, the basic concoctions that have been put down in publications can be used by people on a regular basis. These potions, their quantities and the way they are administered should always be kept the same. Let’s take a look at some potion and meal recipes that involve beneficial herbs. Potion Recipes: Vinegar and Garlic Mixture o ¼ cup white vinegar o ¼ cup rubbing alcohol o 3 drops of garlic tincture 48 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Mix these ingredients in a sterilized bottle. Squeeze out a few drops with an eyedropper and put in both ears. Make sure the liquid runs out of the ear after a few seconds. Lemon and Salt Mixture o 1 cup salt o Juice of 1 whole lemon Mix the salt and lemon thoroughly to make sure salt particles do not rest at the bottom. Then pour the mixture on a small towel that can be wrapped around the back of the head, covering both ears. Heat the towel in the microwave so that it becomes steamy. When the heat is manageable, put the towel across the head so that the vapor goes inside the ear. The warm sensation will also help soothe inflammation. Olive Oil and Lavender Mixture o 5 drops of lavender essential oil o 1 teaspoon olive oil Mix the ingredients in a pan and warm the mixture. Soak a cotton ball in the oil mixture and apply it to the outer ear only. Make sure it does not enter the ear. This potion is ideal to relieve pain caused by infection. Apple Cider Vinegar o 2 drops of Apple Cider Vinegar o Distilled Water Put two drops of Apple Cider Vinegar in each ear for instant pain relief. When the vinegar runs out, wash with distilled water. This solution is effective but temporary. 49 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Garlic and Mustard o 2 cloves of garlic, crushed. o 2 teaspoons of mustard or mustard oil Combine both ingredients in a saucepan and heat. When the garlic starts to burn, remove and strain the mixture. Put two drops of the mixture in each ear to soothe itch and pain. Olive Oil and tea Tree Oil o 3 drops of tea tree oil o 3 drops of extra virgin olive oil Mix both ingredients in equal parts. Put in both ears to soothe and relieve infection aches. Apple Cider Vinegar and Honey o 3 cloves of garlic o 1.5 teaspoons of vinegar o ½ teaspoon honey Mix all these ingredients together and heat the mixture. Strain out the solid pieces and put a few drops in each ear. Wrap a warm towel after draining the liquid from the ears. Meal Recipes: Stuffed Potatoes 16 potatoes (1-1/2 to 2 inch diameter) 1/4 cup finely shredded, vegetarian cheese 50 REVERSE HEARING LOSS 1/2 cup Vegenaise 1/4 cup snipped fresh parsley 1 14-ounce can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped 1 tablespoon olive oil Dash ground red pepper 2 tablespoons finely shredded lemon peel 2 cloves garlic, crushed and minced Procedure: Cut the potatoes in half. Spoon out the potatoes to make them hollow from the middle. Now mix all the ingredients, except the parsley and lemon peel, to prepare the filling for the potatoes. Next, fill the potatoes with the filling and bake in the oven for 20 minutes until the filling becomes golden. When done, sprinkle with lemon peel and parsley. Indian Vegetable Curry 3 potatoes, cut in squares 1 1/2 cups green peas 1 cauliflower, chopped 3/4 tsp turmeric 3 tomatoes, chopped 1 1/2 tsp cumin 1/2 tsp chili powder 1 tsp curry 1 cup water 51 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Procedure: Mix all the above ingredients in a pot; adding water in the end. Cover with a lid and let it cook on medium heat for about 6 hours. Enjoy with brown rice. Chili and Corn Casserole For the Casserole 3 ½ cups steamed corn 3 ½ cups boiled brown rice 1 tsp crushed chili peppers 1 tsp garlic powder 3 cups homemade tomato sauce 1/8 tsp cumin ½ cup green pepper, chopped 1 tsp cayenne 1 cup chopped onion For The Topping 1 cup tofu ¼ cup chopped green pepper 1 cup tomato sauce Procedure: Combine all the ingredients for the Casseroles in a bowl. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are combined evenly with the tomato sauce. Next, take a large casserole dish and put the mixture in it. Spread it out evenly. In a separate 52 REVERSE HEARING LOSS bowl, combine the ingredients for the topping and sprinkle them over the casserole mixture. Now put the dish in a preheated oven on the middle rack at 150 degrees. One hour is usually enough for both the mixtures to settle in and form a crispy topping. Once done, garnish the casserole with additional green chilies and spring onions, chopped finely. 53 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Effects of Nutrition on Hearing The Role of Antioxidants: Coenzyme Q10 What Is Coenzyme Q10? C oenzyme Q10, also known as Ubiquinone and Ubidecarenone, is found in every cell and tissue in the body. Its presence is sometimes compared to that of many vitamins that are found in a human, that 54 REVERSE HEARING LOSS help the body regulate functions and processes. Coenzyme Q10 is naturally produced by the body in very small quantities and then distributed to cells, which use it to produce the necessary level of energy needed by them to maintain growth of cells and tissues. Apart from the production of energy, Coenzyme Q10 also works efficiently as an Antioxidant that protects and shelters the body from harmful bacteria and molecules that can cause infections and disturb the everyday working of cells. As the name, ‘Co-enzyme’ suggests, this fat soluble substance works together with enzymes in the body, aiding their purpose to digest foods, break them down to release energy and protecting the heart and other major organs of the body. Since this antioxidant works in multiple ways inside the body, it is known to be one of the necessary substances, the concentration of which has to be maintained in the blood. For this reason, Coenzyme Q10 is widely available as a dietary supplement. Role Of Coenzyme Q10 In Hearing Loss & Tinnitus Extensive research has been conducted over the years regarding the effect of a Coenzyme Deficiency on Hearing Loss and many conditions related to it. These results, though conclusive, have been limited, which is why, this correlation still remains to be solidified. In an October 2008 study, 120 patients previously diagnosed with Sensorineural Hearing Loss participated in a study to determine the effect of increased doses of Q10. The aim of the research was to understand whether Q10 has a therapeutic effect on this type of hearing loss or not. The group was divided into two factions. One was given a systemic Steroid Treatment for 2 weeks, while the other half was given managed and controlled dose of Q10. It was decided that the results of the study were to be concluded based on the results of two variables, namely; Auditory Function (Pure Tone Audiometry) and Speech Discrimination Score. 55 REVERSE HEARING LOSS At the end of the trial period, the total hearing ability improved by 75%, i.e. 90 out of the 120 patients experienced better hearing and most of these belonged to the Q10 group. The study also concluded that while the improvement in auditory function was similar in both groups, the one that received Q10 doses recorded significant improvements in speech discrimination. This study suggested that when Coenzyme Q10 deficiency is restored, the hearing ability of patients improved because Q10 positively affected the tiny hair follicles in the inner ear, thus improving the sensory response of the earbrain connection. Another study with Q10 aimed to gauge the substance’s effect on Tinnitusa hearing loss condition characterized by ringing in the ears. In Berlin, Germany, researchers put together a group of 20 patients who were experiencing ringing in their ears. The study, which lasted for 16 weeks, aimed to understand if higher levels of Q10 help ease this condition. At the beginning of the trail, the level of Q10 in the participant’s bodies were tested and recorded. They were also made to answer a Tinnitus Questionnaire (TQ) that would record the efficacy of the substance being tested. Over the 16 weeks, patients were given 100mg of Q10 thrice a week. At the end of the study, the Q10 levels were measured again. Tests revealed that the plasma concentration of Q10 was elevated and stayed high until 4 weeks after the study. As far as Tinnitus was concerned, it was observed that 7 patients who recorded the biggest change in Q10 Levels- beginning with a very low concentration before the study- recorded a reduction in their TQ Score. From a score of 38, the post-study results came down to 24- indicating a considerable improvement in Tinnitus. 56 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Foods That Contain Coenzyme Q10 Do foods contain Q10? Yes, they do; albeit in very limited quantities. Since Q10 is fat-soluble, it is mostly found in meaty dishes that still have some fat in them. Some of the most popular sources of Q10 are: Fatty Fish: The leaner your serving of fish, the lesser the amount of Coenzyme Q10 in it. This means that, within the seafood category, options that have fat usually have more Q10. Salmon, Tuna, Mackerel and Herring are some varieties that are rich in this substance. For instance, a 3-ounce serving of herring has almost 2.3mg of Coenzyme, while the same serving of Trout has 0.9mg of the antioxidant. Beef and Poultry: Since beef has high fatty tissue content, it is a rich serving of Coenzyme Q10 as well. A 3-ounce steak serving of beef has 2.3mg of Q10; while the same serving of chicken has about 1.4mg of the same. Hard-boiled Egg: A hard-boiled egg has a very small amount of Coenzyme Q10; close to 0.1mg. Coenzyme Q10 Supplement There are a number of Q10 supplements available in the market. While some need to be prescribed, others are available over the counter (hence, their comparison to Vitamins). However, it is important to know how much Q10 to take on a daily basis. The first step in this regard is to be tested on the level of Q10 present in your body. Depending on the deficiency, doctors prescribe certain levels of Coenzyme Q10 Supplement that should be taken by a patient. Somewhere between 50mg to 1200mg of Q10 can be taken on a daily basis. This dose is split into multiple capsule intakes spaced throughout the day. 57 REVERSE HEARING LOSS The Role of Magnesium in Hearing Loss The Need For Magnesium Among the many nutrients and minerals needed by the body for proper functioning, magnesium ranks high on the list. It is one of those substances that is required in moderate quantities, but is extremely important for the internal organs to stay healthy and ward off bacterial and viral infections. According to official U.S. figures, the dosage of magnesium should be in these quantities: Children 1-8 years: 80mg- 130mg Males 13-30 years: 240mg-400mg Females 13-30 years: 240- 360mg If these quantities are not maintained naturally, doctors often recommend patients to take supplements to up their intake of magnesium. Be it the heart, the kidneys or even the general immune system; the need for magnesium can never be overlooked. Magnesium Deficiency And Hearing Loss Magnesium also plays a major role in the case of hearing loss. Permanent and temporary hearing loss has been linked to Mg deficiencies via a number of clinical and laboratory studies. Regardless of whether hearing deteriorates suddenly or over a period, Mg has a role to play in two types of hearing loss: Noise related hearing loss Age related hearing loss It is assumed that a myriad of metabolic functions of the body are affected by a lack of Mg, which eventually leads to a weakened Auditory System. It is a well-known fact that if a person is exposed to loud and unpleasant noises 58 REVERSE HEARING LOSS at work or because of lifestyle choices, the chances of damaging the tiny hair inside the inner ear are very high. However, since not every person exposed to noises experiences hearing loss; it has been concluded by extensive research that the deficiency of Mg is the second factor that pushes the auditory system over the deafness threshold. Evidence from these studies shows a strong negative correlation between noise sensitivity and the Mg concentration in the body. How can Mg deficiency bring about such dire consequences? It is believed that when a human is constantly exposed to noise, there is an inevitable increase in stress levels. With this increase, a natural reaction of the body is the urinary excretion of Magnesium - which increases as stress levels gradually increase. Hence, when the body becomes short on this mineral, it is susceptible to noise or age induced hearing loss. Studies To Confirm The Effect Of Magnesium To present this correlation medically, a number of studies have been conducted. Since Magnesium is a safe mineral, experiments have been done of animals as well as humans. Study #1: In a clinical study, half of the 300 military personnel who participated were given a daily dose of 167mg of Magnesium supplement and the other half were given placebo supplements. Since this was a blind study, both groups were unaware of how much magnesium, or no magnesium at all, they were ingesting. After a period of 2 months, both groups were tested. The one that received controlled amounts of magnesium recorded an increase in the minerals quantity in the body. It was concluded that these individuals were less likely to experience hearing loss when they went for service; and even if they did eventually go through noise-related hearing loss, it would be milder than the placebo group. 59 REVERSE HEARING LOSS While safety aids that protect the ears against loud noises should never be replaced; their function can be aided by a safe and controlled use of Magnesium Supplements. Study #2: To test the immediate effect of Magnesium deficiency, guinea pigs were used in another trial. These guinea pigs were given a diet that was low in Magnesium and drinking water that was supplemented with varying levels of Mg. These animals were then exposed to 95dB of noise for 16 hours a day over a period of 4 weeks. At the end of the trial, the guinea pigs had gone deaf because of such intense exposure to noise and very little Magnesium intake. The amounts with which their noise thresholds shifted were inversely proportional to the quantity of Mg in the drinking water. Here are the results: Amount of Mg Supplement Noise Threshold Shift 4.5 16.8 2.5 22.7 0.5 34.2 Is A Magnesium Rich Diet The Solution? In light of the studies, it is clear that a diet that is rich in magnesium and fulfills the daily dosage requirement is the best way to ensure that the body is equipped to fight against noise and age related deafness. Both these instances are gradual and surface with time, hence, the regular intake of magnesium on a daily basis provides ample of ammunition for those who are exposed to extremely loud noises. The following are Top 10 Magnesium rich foods that should be a part of your daily diet in controlled quantities: 60 REVERSE HEARING LOSS 1. Leafy Greens: 79mg in 100g 2. Nuts and Seeds: 534mg in 100g 3. Mackerel Fish: 97mg in 100g 4. Beans and Lentils: 86mg in 100g 5. Whole Grains: 44mg in 100g 6. Avocado: 29mg in 100g 7. Plain nonfat yogurt: 19mg in 100g 8. Bananas: 27mg in 100g 9. Figs: 68mg in 100g 10. Dark Chocolate: 327mg in 100g Combining these foods with other nutritious substances can prevent hearing loss to a large degree. It must be remembered that Magnesium rich foods should be taken on an ongoing basis. Including them in your diet once or twice a month will, most likely, make you deficient in this mineral. If you are then exposed to loud noises, the auditory system can come under a lot of pressure. Role Of Vitamin D In Hearing Loss In the previous chapters where the Anatomy of the ear was discussed, the talk of three tiny bones inside the ear was given a lot of importance. Collectively known as the Ossicles, these bones play a crucial role in making sure that the sound waves reach the inner ear uninterrupted. From bridging the inner and middle ears, to performing essential vibrations, if it were not for the ossicles, hearing would be impaired and inaccurate. In many people, who cannot hear properly or are moving towards permanent 61 REVERSE HEARING LOSS hearing loss, the ossicles’ malfunction is the biggest reason. Why do these bones stop functioning? There are a number of conditions that affect the Ossicles, hindering their function for hearing. A disease known as Otosclerosis is particularly related to hearing loss. In this condition, the ossicles get twined into a hard mesh like structure, thus losing their flexibility and ability to vibrate when sound enters the middle ear. While Otosclerosis is mostly genetic, in many cases it can be healed via surgery and constant doses of Vitamin D to help the Ossicles regain their flexibility and overall structure. It is important to remember that, though tiny, these bones are just like other bony structures of the body. They are made from similar materials and have similar characteristics, just like the bones in the other parts of the body. Hence, when a person experiences arthritis or the weakening of bones in the body as he ages; are the ossicles also affected? As degradation progresses in the body, bones in the ear are also affected. This means that with age, ossicles also lose their strength if sufficient doses of Vitamin D are not taken. Since the skin only produces 1/3 of the Vitamin D needed by the body, additional sources have to be relied upon. Hence, Vitamin D and hearing loss are highly correlated. Vitamin D deficiency is one of the most common cases found in aging people. Since many people are ignorant of the amount of Vitamin D they consume on a daily basis, by the time they are old, the bones in the body are already on the way to degradation and erosion. What does Vitamin D really do? Vitamin D is essential for the bones because it stimulates the absorption of Calcium. Since Calcium is the main ingredient needed for bone strength and health, it needs to be taken in every day. However, if you take calcium without the essential dose of Vitamin D; the former will only be present in the bodywithout being absorbed. Hence, the role played by Vitamin D for maintaining healthy bones can never be disregarded. 62 REVERSE HEARING LOSS How Does The Body Become Vitamin D Deficient? There are many reasons for the body to become deficient in Vitamin D. When the deficiency increases out of control, the erosion of the bones’ surface begins, leading to hearing loss and many other problems. If you identify yourself with any of the following habits and lifestyle, it is an indication that the supplies of Vitamin D in your body may be depleting. 1. Chain smoking 2. Living very far from the equator, without any sunlight 3. A life full of stress 4. Medical conditions like Kidney and Liver Problems reduce Vitamin D supplies 5. Taking Drugs that reduce Vitamin D in the long run 6. Heavy alcohol consumption Increasing Vitamin D Intake If millions of people suffer from bone degradation and thousands of these experience temporary and permanent hearing loss, why is Vitamin D not being taken? The biggest problem that most nutritionists report in regards to Vitamin D is that this nutrient is found naturally in a very limited number of foods and in very little quantities. There are two ways to increase Vitamin D intake for the body. Both these methods are often implemented together to make sure that the bones receive enough of this nutrient. It is important to understand that the natural stores of Vitamin D have to be supplemented to make sure that the bones are healthy and able to take up the stress and strenuous activities of life. 1. Increasing Intake With Supplements 63 REVERSE HEARING LOSS This means that if you want to up your intake of Vitamin D, taking supplements and additional foods is the best way. The Top 10 Foods that are rich in Vitamin D are: Cod Liver Oil: 10,000IU in 100g Trout Fish: 759IU in 100g Mushrooms: 446IU in 100g Tofu: 157IU in 100g Fortified Cereals: 333IU in 100g Caviar: 117IU in 100 g Dairy Products: 110IU in 100g Pork: 93IU in 100g Hard Boiled Eggs: 87IU in 100g Plain Soy Yogurt: 53IU in 100g 2. Increasing Intake With Sunlight Another excellent source of Vitamin D for the body is sunlight. Since outdoor activities and sports are limited for those old age individuals, it is highly beneficial for them to spend time outdoors, sitting under the sun. Basking in the sun exposes one’s skin to sunrays. Since the skin is the biggest absorption organ, it takes in a lot of Vitamin D that is needed by the body on a daily basis. Some easy ways to take in Vitamin D from the sun are: Talking long walks in the early afternoon when the sun is overhead. Spending time by a pool or the beach on a sunny day. Opening up windows and doors in a home to let sunlight in all through the morning and afternoon. Building a skylight in the roof for regular doses of sunlight and Vitamin D. 64 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Many professionals suggest that if sunlight is absent in the part of the world you live in, Ultraviolet Lamps and Bulbs can be a substitute. The radiations emitted by these lamps are, in some ways, similar to those given out by the sun. Hence, exposure to these lamps can also provide a limited dose of Vitamin D. A number of studies have been conducted that correlate skin color with Vitamin D deficiency. These studies reveal that Dark Skinned people (Asians and Hispanics), who need the least amount of Vitamin D are less prone to age related hearing loss than White Skinned people whose skin produces very little of its own Vitamin D. How Can Nutrition Improve Your Hearing The role played by a nutritious diet for hearing loss can never be underestimated. Eating a healthy diet that contains the most important nutrients and antioxidants is the best, most natural way to make sure that hearing is not affected in humans as they age. Since half of the baby boomers experience some kind of hearing impairment, it is safe to assume that hearing loss has become a common problem nowadays. Numerous studies and researches have been carried out that correlate the long-term consequences of healthy and unhealthy diets on the ability to hear when one crosses the age of 60. We have previously provided evidence that aging does in fact affect hearing; leading to a condition called Presbycusis. Now let’s look at the same link with the inclusion of a nutritious and healthy diet. Studies That Prove The Positive Effects Of Nutrition On Hearing In one particular clinical trial, 21 rats aged 2 were used as a subject of the study. These rats were considered old in the animal kingdom; hence, the case 65 REVERSE HEARING LOSS of hearing loss could be tested. These rodents were divided into 3 groups of 7, and each group was given a different supplement. Group One was given a supplement of ALC (acetyl-L-carnitine), Group Two was given ALA (alpha-lipoic acid) and Group Three was given a Placebo Sugar Pill. For six weeks of the trial, the rodents were monitored. In the placebo group, the level of hearing seemed to have deteriorated as the rats aged more with time. They had a delayed response to noise and their decibel thresholds started to shift. Those who had either of the two supplements were unaffected by age related hearing loss. In fact, hearing improved in these two groups of rats and they were able to hear various sounds much more easily. This means that taking supplements did not only hinder hearing loss, it also improved the hearing condition even if it was on its way to deteriorate. Overall, the placebo group lost 3-7dB of hearing, while the latter two groups experiencing an improvement 7-10dB. It was also noted that most of this improvement came about 6 months after the treatment was halted. Moreover, the ALA Group was more effective at improving hearing for low frequencies, while ALC was more effective for higher frequencies. The results of this study indicated that taking both these compounds together as dietary supplements, has a phenomenal effect on reducing hearing loss and preventing Presbycusis. Such studies are proof enough to bust myths that have made humans believe that age related hearing loss is an inevitable consequence of getting older. With the correct nutrients and supplements, inner ear infections and other conditions can be prevented from spreading so much that hearing is lost for good. An extension of the same study also concluded that supplements like ALA, ALC and Coenzyme Q10 have the power to subsequently reduce freeradical damage everywhere in the body. This means that when these substances are taken as prescribed, the sensitive membrane of the cells called Mitochondria, are protected from damage; hence ensuring their smooth and healthy growth. 66 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Most nutritious foods for hearing loss To an extent, all such nutrients are naturally found in meat, fruits, vegetables and nuts, which makes their consumption not only beneficial but highly necessary as well. In the previous topic, we talked about three main nutrients; Magnesium, Coenzyme Q10 and Vitamin D. Apart from these, there are many more supplements of a nutritious diet that are needed in ample amounts. Amino Acids and Antioxidants Amino Acids have proven to be highly effective against noise induced hearing loss. While a regular human being may experience temporary hearing loss after being exposed to unusually high noises, those who take n-acetyl-cysteine, a type of amino acid, are known to be protected against any ear damage due to loud noises. Similarly, antioxidants like Alpha Lipoic Acid are very necessary in protecting and regenerating the mitochondria of the hair follicles in the inner ear, thus improving hearing. Vitamins Apart from Vitamin D, many other types of vitamins are responsible for various functions that need to be in sync for hearing to be top notch. o Vitamin A: Deficiency of Vitamin A reduces sensory functions and adversely affects noise susceptibility. Not only this, the importance of Vitamin A is apparent from its role in the development of the inner ear structure as well. o Vitamin B Complex: Vitamin B Complex helps in improving the ability to hear. Supplements of Vitamin B Complex reduce ear pressure and have been used for years as a therapeutic remedy for acute hearing loss and tinnitus. o Vitamin C: Vitamin C supplements have proven beneficial for the growth and maintenance of cochlear hair. Moreover, Vitamin C is 67 REVERSE HEARING LOSS a natural immune booster, which means it is the best way to strengthen the immune system without taking unnatural supplements. Since ear infections are a top cause of hearing loss, including Vitamin C in your diet is essential for healthy hearing. Most doctors recommend a regular dose of vitamin C on a daily basis. Large stores of Vitamin C are found in foods like: Oranges Guavas Fresh Herbs Strawberries Lemons o Vitamin E: Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant. When added to the dietary requirements of those with noise related hearing loss, it significantly improved recovery rates and made the sense of hearing stronger. Foods that have the most Vitamin E are: Sunflower seeds Leafy greens Almonds Mangos Olive oil Broccoli Kiwi Bell peppers Papaya o B12: Deficiency of B12 is associated with nervous and vascular breakdowns, both of which are detrimental to healthy hearing. Moreover, the lack of B12 also inhibits the protective coating of the neurons in the inner ear. Consuming B12 is hard for vegans and vegetarians because this nutrient is mostly found in animal meat that is acted upon by beneficial bacteria and fungi. 68 REVERSE HEARING LOSS B12 is mostly taken in the form of synthetic supplements. However, for those who want to keep it all natural, foods rich in B12 are: Nori, an edible seaweed Spirulina o Vitamin B6: Vitamin B6 is responsible for the regulation of fluids in the ear. Its deficiency creates hindrances in the brainstem auditory pathways. Minerals The biggest cause of age related hearing loss is the deterioration of cochlear hair in the ears that vibrate and oscillate when sound waves enter the pinna. In this regard, minerals are essential to ensure healthy growth and flexibility of these hairs. A diet that is lacking essential quantities of zinc, copper and iodine contributes to cochlear lesions that eventually lead to hearing loss. Iron, in particular, is needed for the healthy upkeep of the middle ear that suffers unprecedented damage in its absence. In a Chinese study, school-going children who were otherwise healthy were made to take controlled doses of iodized salt. Over a period, iodine helps improve impaired hearing and other ear related conditions like infections, swelling and aches. Omega 3 Fatty Acids Omega 3 Fatty Acids are the good fats found in many types of foods. These fatty tissues are essential for the body to perform everyday functions that involve the immune system. Since fat stores are located all over the body, and are needed for tissue repair - consuming essential Omega 3s is necessary to reduce inflammation and repair tissues within the affected skin. Foods that are rich in Omega 3 include: 69 REVERSE HEARING LOSS o Olive Oil o Red and black beans o Flaxseed o Walnuts o Coconut oil o Sacha Inchi Oil o Chai Seeds Folate Folate is known to prevent birth defects- deafness from birth being one such problem. Adequate amount of folate in the body ensures that it functions and responds to infections and bacteria promptly, which prevents sudden hearing loss. Since folate is water soluble, it passes out of the body every now and then. Hence, regular doses have to be taken. Some foods that contain folate include: o Broccoli o Asparagus o Lentils o Beans o Avocado Potassium Potassium plays an important role in dictating the way cells interact within the inner ear, making it one of the most needed nutrients for a healthy sense of hearing. As we age, potassium levels in the body drop and the ears the first organ to notice this decrease. Both, noise and age 70 REVERSE HEARING LOSS related hearing loss can be prevented with adequate intake of potassium throughout one’s life. Foods that have a high concentration of potassium include: Apricots Bananas Melons Oranges Spinach Lima Beans Yogurt Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA), as mentioned previously in clinical studies, is an essential supplement needed by the body. Since ALA is an enzyme facilitator and a powerful antioxidant, it protects the ear from freeradical damage and also helps generate mitochondria in the inner ear. It also helps nervous function in the body, enabling sound to be converted to nervous signals efficiently. Some foods that contain ALA are: o Sweet Potatoes o Spinach o Broccoli All these studies show that nutrition is a key element that keeps hearing loss and other related problems at bay. A healthy diet and a lifestyle that ensures all nutrients are taken in the right balance is necessary to prevent noise and age related hearing loss in adults as well as senior citizens. 71 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Preventing Hearing Loss Steps to prevent hearing loss H earing loss can happen to anyone. It does not matter how old you are, but if your ears are being exposed to loud noise regularly, you are in a serious risk of damaging your hearing. It has been observed that a considerable percentage value of workers suffer from hearing loss who are being exposed to occupational noise. Whether it is noise at work, or that of a lawn mower, or noisy events such as concerts, or that of a hair dryer, coffee mixers, grinders, garbage disposal, mp3 players, loud noise has proved to be extremely dangerous for ears and may cause noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). Hearing loss may not always be reversible, and in some severe 72 REVERSE HEARING LOSS cases, it may cause permanent damage to your ears and the connected auditory nerves. With the help of recent studies, it has become evident that free radicals are the main reason of hearing loss in most cases, and they are responsible for damaging your hearing ability more than the damaged underlying hair cells in the ear canal. Therefore, it is easier to follow such steps and adapt such a lifestyle that helps in preventing hearing loss and development of other associated hearing disorders. Hearing loss can also be preserved with the help of a well-nourishing diet plan, which is rich in antioxidants, which counter the effect of free radicals. Lifestyle choices To prevent your hearing ability from being damaged, and reduce risk of developing age-related hearing loss, there are a few useful tips that you should consider applying in your lifestyle. It is best that you avoid exposure of excessive noise to your ears. If the sound is too loud for your ears, that you are unable to hear your own voice or the voice of others speaking, then you might be at risk of damaging your hearing ability. For example, if the ambient noise is too loud in a movie theatre or restaurant, you can either avoid getting such exposure or ask the supervisor to turn it down. It is advisable to buy such appliances and devices for your house, that create the least amount noise. For example, while buying a generator for your house, it is best that you check its noise limit before you purchase it. Since you are exposing yourself, other family members and your neighbors to such noise, which may risk in causing hearing loss. Wherever you have doubt that you are going to be exposed to loud noise and have little choice of avoiding it, you can always use ear protection. Earplugs are soft, plastic or rubber-made ear protecting item, which you can get easily off the shelf. Musicians and singers usually use them, where they are trying to quieten the ambience noise 73 REVERSE HEARING LOSS and synchronize frequencies, in order to hear themselves play or sing to the audience. Earplugs can lower the noise levels from fifteen to twenty decibels. Earmuffs are also very useful specially to protect your ears from occupational noise, and widely used in such organizations. Earmuffs cover your ear completely, giving a more secure protection to your ears. The most common occupations that put your ears to risk include those of firefighters, police officers, factory workers, entertainment industry professionals, musicians, military personnel, heavy industry workers, construction workers, farmers, miners etc. Ear cleaning For healthy ear conditions and good hearing abilities, ears do not need to be cleaned, unless signs of an ear infection or other hearing disorder appear. Ear infections can be the most painful thing a person experiences, and they are usually developed due to clogged ears by either over consummation of earwax in the ears, by fungal growth or any other infectious host. Clogged ears can also be caused by undiagnosed allergies. What appears to be a recurring cold, may actually be an unidentified development of allergy in the body. This may put your hearing ability in serious risk. It is best to get your ears checked and identify any associated allergies that may be causing ear congestion. The ears should be cleaned by the doctor in case of excessive earwax accumulation, and may cause symptoms of the following ear problems start to surface. Earache, pudginess of the ear or the sensation you get when you wear earplugs. 74 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Tinnitus, ringing of the ears or noisy ears Partial hearing loss, which may be caused due to trauma or accident Itching ears, odor or discharge of fluid from ears Cough For cleaning ears, it is best to use a piece of cloth, which has been dipped in lukewarm water, and clean the outer ear with it. Do not insert anything in the ear canal on your own. The cloth therapy will immediately ease out the pain and give relief from discomfort. Other methods of ear cleaning include use of mineral oil, baby oil, mustard oil, olive oil or glycerin, to be used with a dropper into the ear. This is mostly recommended for clearing our infectious fluid from the ear, which gets discharged out. Removing earwax manually is also effective, depending on the condition and symptoms of the patient. A suction instrument is used to clear out the wax congestion from the ear canal. Then, a magnifying glass is used to inspect the inner condition of the ear. This method is used on conditional basis; especially for those patients who might be suffering from diabetes, or have very weak immune system, or whose ear canal is extremely narrow, or the eardrum might be perforated. Nutrition Hearing loss can be prevented by consuming a well-balanced diet that is rich in antioxidants such as vitamin A, E and C, B-12, Omega-3, zinc, magnesium etc. these anti-oxidants fight against the free radicals that are produced when your ears are exposed to loud noise. These free radicals damage your cochlea and even the bone structure of your ear, creating a high risk of hearing disorders. Examples of food rich in vitamin A, E and C include most of the fruits and vegetables. Magnesium is abundantly found in bananas, soybeans, artichokes, squash and broccoli. While zinc is found in mushrooms, chocolate, spinach, cashew and oysters. Maintaining vitamin D levels in your body is also very important, especially for preventing your ears from getting damage. The vitamin D levels keep your ear structure intact and protects it 75 REVERSE HEARING LOSS from developing weak bone density disorder, known as osteopenia. Vitamin D is found in salami, milk, tofu, salmon and eggs. For those who are suffering from hearing loss or associated disorders, they are prescribed by doctors to take supplements or pills, which constitute of a combination of the above-mentioned anti-oxidants, for efficient results and rapid recovery. Exposure to certain chemicals Hearing loss associated with exposure to chemicals begins with high frequency of damage and result in irreversible hearing loss. They may be caused by being exposed to lead solvents, which are commonly found in crude oil, automobile exhaust and gasoline, and asphyxiates. These chemicals, along with noise are proved extremely hazardous for hearing ability and ear functionality. The risk of hearing loss from ototoxic chemicals is way higher than the risk of being exposed to loud noise alone. These ototoxic chemicals damage the cochlear structure of the ear and affect the auditory system of the body. The auditory nerves connecting the ear with the nervous system may be seriously severed and disrupt the sound waves reception to the ear. Hearing loss caused by such ototoxic chemicals may be crossed out to some extend by taking anti-oxidation supplements or pills. Following are the categorical summary of ototoxic chemicals that contribute in hearing loss. Pesticides and Herbicides: organophosphates, paraquat Metals: lead, organotin compounds (trimethyltin), mercury Asphyxiants: hydrogen cyanide, carbon monoxide 76 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Solvents: ethyl benzene, xylene, trichloroethylene, white spirits/Stoddard, carbon disulfide, fuels, perchloroethylene, p-xylene, toluene, styrene, Drugs: antibiotics, antimalarial, inflammatory (non-steroidal) antineoplastic, diuretics, anti- Hear loss associated with exposure of such ototoxic chemicals to human ear is being widely researched now and industries are focusing on making a more secure environment for their workers to work in. protective measures are being taken to prevent hearing loss who are prone to work in such environments. Recent studies have shown that the risk of developing hearing disorder in such environment is so high and dangerous, that it is assumed to damage the auditory nerves more than the level of damage that is expected from getting exposed to noisy environments. Workers whose occupations are linked to those industries such as oil companies, vehicle industry and companies who exploit resources to extract energy resources, are more at risk of developing hearing disorders than others. The risk is high enough to cause hearing loss in a speed, which is difficult to control, and prevent. In addition, once a person’s hearing gets affected in such scenario, it is almost impossible to cure. Therefore, such industries need to focus more on these underlying problems and secure a healthy working environment for their employees. Using exercise to prevent hearing loss It has been proved through recent studies that exercise is not only god for your physical fitness, but it vitally helps in preserving your hearing ability. However, exercise beyond your fitness level may harm your body. In addition, with the help of extensive research, it became evident that people, who expose their ears to extremely loud music or ambient noise, may also risk their ears to develop sensorineural hearing loss. So, make sure to keep the volume down and do a well-structured workout. 77 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Exercise for hearing loss Using elliptical and other cardiovascular exercises is the best way you can prevent your ears from suffering hearing problems. This is mainly because when you age, the functioning of your ears is directly associated with that of your heart. Hence, such cardiovascular exercises helps to ensure a better blood flow throughout your entire body, it also helps in regulating it within the brain. And since your auditory nerves travel all the way from your ears to your brain, a regulated blood flow keeps their functions streamlined as well. For this reason, people who exercise regularly, especially cardio workout, tend to develop hearing problems very late as they age. A physically fit person in his 50s may have the same level of good hearing ability like a person in his 30s. People, who exercise regularly, are observed to possess better neural reliability of cochlea and the outer surrounding hair cells, since they are being provided oxygen-rich blood supply through the blood channels. Such healthy regulation of blood flow also ensures in preventing from various toxic-related disease, infections and viruses. Additionally, it clears your ear from free radicals and inflammation. As people age, they need to exercise more, especially aerobics exercises. Since age-related hearing loss is likely to develop in almost everyone, you can still avoid it for a long time if you keep and maintain a good healthy heart and physical fitness. According to research, regular exercise reduces your chance of hearing disability to 15%. How to start? Most of the diseases and infections caused in your air is due to intoxicating effects of free radicals and infections in your ear. All of this can be avoided if you do a well-designed workout routine regularly. Exercise not only helps in regulating your blood supply, it also helps in preventing your body from developing serious ailments such as diabetes and neurological disorders. For an effective workout result, you need to structure the whole routine in such 78 REVERSE HEARING LOSS a way that it begins with stretching exercises and warm up drills. This enables your body muscles to get flexible and become lose. So that when you begin with the actual workout, your muscles will not strain and feel stiff by the end of the day. Starting with proper resistance exercise without warming up first, can seriously damage your connective tissues wrapped around those muscles. In addition, while exercising, it is important that you take breaks. If your heart rate shoots up and you start to feel breathless, it is time that you stop the workout immediately. Sit down for a while and drink plenty of water, until your heart rate becomes normal. Whenever you exercise on machines, it displays a chart of ideal heart rate and weight according to age and height. It is best to keep track of such data since it will tell you exactly how much your body holds the stamina for that particular exercise. Tips for a better workout Here are a few helpful key points that you need to consider while exercising, for elevating your workout results and body fitness. The most important fact to remember is that you should not exercise more than your fitness level and body stamina. Always warm up and do stretch exercises before you begin your actual workout, so that all your body muscles feel lose and flexible. Overdoing a workout more than your body stamina can take, may cause a sudden loss of hearing ability, dizziness, nausea and even tinnitus in which your ears may start ringing. If you start to notice any of those symptoms, stop right there are take a break from your workout. Take deep breaths and drink plenty of water, for your body to stabilize. To avoid this scenario, always take breaks and short gaps between the workouts. If you feel such symptoms for an ongoing period, you need to consult a doctor immediately. In such a case, it might be caused by a hearing disorder associated with the inner ear, or a hearing abnormality, or even a hereditary defect. 79 REVERSE HEARING LOSS If the music is too loud in the gym or fitness club, ask your supervisor to turn it down. Because ambient noise is the most common risk factor of causing hearing loss and related disabilities. The sound should never be loud at a level that you are unable to hear the other person talking, at your arm’s length. The ideal noise level is from 30 to 40 dB. Any sound louder than this limit may harm your ears. If the supervisor does not lower the volume, you may use earplugs or earmuffs to protect your ears, since health should be the number one priority. The same rule applies to hearing music via earplugs. Recent studies have shown that listening to music through ear plugs in high volume for a prolonged period, may cause hearing disability at a very high frequency rate. Especially if the sound is higher than 85dB and your ears are being exposed to it for a consecutive span of time, you are seriously damaging your ears. Hence, while exercising or listening to music randomly, make sure the volume is not higher than this limit, as the purpose of staying healthy and maintaining fitness is being defeated. Using the right foods to prevent hearing loss Citrus-rich foods The fluid-filled hearing and balancing structure of the ear requires a substantial amount of mixed nutrients to carry out its functions in the most efficient manner. If you are concerned about protecting your hearing ability, and preventing yourself from age-related hearing loss, you need to include citrus-rich foods in your daily diet routine. Citrus is rich in vitamin E and vitamin C. They are the core sources of antioxidant agents that protect your ears from noise-induced ear damage and hearing disabilities. Citrus foods also help in regulating a pollutant-free blood flow in your entire body. 80 REVERSE HEARING LOSS In this way, these foods not only keep your brain functioning and nervous system healthy and intoxicated, but it also regulates an efficient flow of blood through the connecting auditory nerves and inner ear hair cells. The regulated blood flow provides these hair cells with oxygen-rich blood supply, and other vitally useful nutrients. Hence, it protects your hearing and other body functions from intruding toxins that may cause certain diseases, infections, viruses and other disorders. Examples of citrus foods rich in Vitamin E and C are oranges, papaya, clementine, lemons, grapefruit, tangerine, mandarin, pomelo, citron etc. Vegetables rich in citrus include asparagus, Brussel sprouts, broccoli, bell peppers, collard greens, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, potatoes, spinach, turnip greens etc. Dietary supplements Many dietary supplements are advised by nutritionists, who might be developing symptoms of hearing disability or auditory malfunction. The supplements comprise of four starring components including alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) and acetyl- L- carnitine (ALC). They are considered to form the foundation in preventing hearing loss. The latter two compounds that are commonly found in supplements include coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and glutathione. They also contribute in providing potential value in the antioxidation process. Following are the key benefits of some useful components are either found in dietary supplements or should be naturally counted in your diet. Their recommended dosage according to a report on “Natural Strategies for Preventing Hearing Loss” by Life Extension Magazine is also mentioned as follows. 81 REVERSE HEARING LOSS ALA is responsible for streamlining the anti-oxidation effects of the auditory nerves and counteracting the potential damages that can be caused by free radicals. The recommended dosage is 100-to750 mg per day. While the ALS is responsible for an efficient working of the brain and the nervous system, along with the auditory nerves, and maintains an effectively functioning mitochondria. Recommended dosage for ALS is 500 to 3000 mg per day. Glutathione helps in prevention of pollutant attacks in the blood stream as well as in the internal structure of ear. It also plays a vital role in fighting against free radical and overcomes the damages caused by it. The recommended dosage is 30 to 300 mg per day. CoQ10 is essentially known to preserve the hearing ability of the ear by protecting the structure and function of mitochondria. It also helps in regulation of the anti - oxidation process within the auditory nerves and blood stream. The recommended dosage is 30 to 320mg per day. Vitamin B complex is a well-known food component for efficient functioning of the entire nervous system and hearing. Its formula is believed to carry out numerous tasks that are vital to keep your body functions intact and in order. Recommended dosage comprises of a well-balanced formula consumed in appropriate quantity. Lecithin is the excelling component for preventing or somewhat controlling age-related hearing loss. According to research, its role is associated with lubrication and protection of cell membranes. Its recommended dosage is 200 to 1500 mg per day. N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) has been observed to play its part in repairing of damaged hair cells. It is a form of amino acid, which also contributes in detoxification of impurities, free radicals and other associated pollutants. Its recommended dosage is 100 to 2500mg per day. 82 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Quercetin is known to contribute largely in protecting hearing loss by acting as an antioxidant agent. It is profoundly seen in most of the fruits and vegetables. It helps in getting rid of the free radicals, which damage the hearing abilities by destroying existing cells. Recommended dosage for this component is 30 to 500 mg per day. Resveratrol protects against loud noise exposure and its associated damages to the ear. It also acts as an anti-aging mediator by protecting the existing cells from wearing out prematurely. It is abundantly found in red wine, grape juice and grapes. Its recommended dosage is 40 to 1000 mg per day. Zinc is the most popular component that is recommended and valued by nutritionists. Zinc plays more than one role in maintaining a good function of the body process. It keeps the brain’s health and nervous system intact. It also plays a significant role in protecting the immune system of the body. It is vitally found in the inner ear and eyes, protecting them from intoxication. The best tip of preserving your hearing abilities and auditory nerves is to consume sufficient amounts of zinc in your daily diet routine. Zinc is also found in dark chocolate, which can help in recovering from acute hearing problems to your ears, or those who have been exposed to high amount of sound. Its recommended dosage is 15 to 75 mg per day. Natural fruits and vegetables with magnesium Magnesium is regarded as the most important food component for preventing hearing loss associated with loud noise exposure and occupational noise. It functions by protecting the cell membrane permeability and synchronizes the energy consumption and production process of the cellular network. It is abundantly found in bananas, potatoes, artichokes and broccoli. Oral magnesium intake is observed to provide protection against risk of developing permanent hearing loss, especially in such individuals who are exposed to loud noise for prolonged period. It also contributes in preventing a sudden idiopathic sensorineural hearing loss in adults. 83 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Consequently, a well-balanced diet is such, which constitutes of all the healthy and important food components, in proportionate quantities. With a healthy diet, it is also important that you synchronize your routine with a structured and regular workout, for maintaining physical fitness and slowing down the aging process. 84 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Apps for Hearing Loss How Can Hearing Apps Help What Are Hearing Apps? H earing Aids we’ve heard about, but what are haring apps? With the advancement in technology, a lot of progress and development have been seen recently for those who are unable to hear sounds at normal volumes. Hearing Applications are one such development that has 85 REVERSE HEARING LOSS taken the hearing impaired community by surprise. Just when they thought, they were stuck with the old school hearing aids, hearing apps came along… We do not mean to assert that the use of hearing aids is not meaningful anymore, nor do we urge anyone using them to discard these devices. What we do mean is that hearing applications have made life easier for users because they do not need to be physically strapped to your ear to turn up the volume of sounds. These applications are mostly available for free and can be downloaded on mobiles, tablets, smartphones, computers and can even be paired with television sets. Our ears have the ability to detect sounds easily. From the drop of a pin to the sound of a draught crossing the room, the lowest to the highest sounds - it can all be heard. Such is the sensitive makeup of the inner ear that enables humans to hear, understand and decipher sounds simultaneously. However, when the ability to hear becomes impaired, the colors of the world seem to drain away. How would you like to live in a ‘silent’ world? where you can hear nothing, and hence, you can say nothing. Those who have defects in the hearing ability from birth have not heard the sounds of the world at all. But what about those who could hear perfectly, and then suddenly, they couldn’t? Hearing applications are designed exactly for these people- to bring some noise back to their life. Just like it took researchers and developers years to come up with the perfect design of the hearing aid- that would amplify sounds just the right way- the development of hearing applications has taken a lot of years, time and effort as well. Hundreds of surveys were conducted, researches begun and prototypes built before the first of these applications was launched. Since hearing applications are an innovative, state of the art technology, they require input from audiologists, Deafness Centers and Institutions, people who find it hard to hear, senior citizens who fear losing their hearing and finally, the makers of the application. Input gained from these factions needs 86 REVERSE HEARING LOSS to be put together with the available technology to come up with an application that answers the needs of these individuals. How Do Hearing Applications Work Hearing Applications are basically designed to make sounds audible for those who have either suffered from temporary deafness and are on the road to recovery, those whose ears have aged with time or finally, those who have been deaf by birth. Even though each app is built on a different set of parameters and lets users perform varying tasks, the primary working of each is the same. Let’s assume you want to test a basic version of a hearing application that amplifies sound. Once you have the application on your Smartphone, here’s how it works: Connect headphones to the device and plug them in your ears. Open the hearing application you want to use. The application interferes with the sound passage and directs the sounds coming into the microphone through the application and its own microphones. When this happens, the settings of the application either change the volume of the sound by amplifying it; or translate the sound into words that can be read off the screen. This depends on the kind of application you are using and the purpose you want fulfilled. Next, if the sound is amplified, it is then sent to the headphones connected to your set. The result? You feel you are hearing a normal sound; or reading off a conversation from your screen. 87 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Initiatives To Make Hearing Apps Common To All Hence, in a word, a hearing application is a program that has the ability to record sounds, amplify them and present them to the user in a way that they can hear it despite the hearing conditions they suffer from. One of the very first initiatives and launch of hearing applications came from the Australian Government in December 2013-2014. The Australian Government’s Telecommunication Universal Service Management Agency (TUSMA) launched a hearing application in the country to help the hearing impaired as part of the National Relay Service. The government affiliated launch of the application ensured that it was available for use by one and all. The application downloads on an Apple or Android Software and can be used by the deaf to make multiple calls and receive calls just like regular people. It provides four available options to users to help them interpret calls. These include Internet Relay, Video Relay, Speak and Listen and Captioned Relay. After choosing and using one of these, common phrases can also be stored to make it easy for these people to communicate with others. In regards to Relay Services, this initiative was the first in the world to give calling access to the hearing impaired. According to the TUSMA Chairman, the new application has increased Relay Calls by a margin of 20%. Transcence, another hearing application initiative has been started by four Berkley and University of Sanfransisco graduates, Thibault, Skinner, Pieter and Noore- all four of whom have impaired hearing. It was their own experience with the world as a ‘silent’ place that urged these people to develop an application that would help others with similar problems. With Thibault born in a deaf family, Skinner a non-signer and Peter and Noore having knowledge of the American Sign Language; the application made by this powerful foursome is one of the most useful and powerful programs for the deaf. Transcence uses cutting edge technology like Speech 88 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Recognition algorithms that assign different colors to various voices in the background. These voices are recorded in real time, converted to speech and then displayed on the screen. Thus, a continuous speech interpretation system is initiated that enables a deaf person to connect with his audience without feeling left out. Not only this, once the user has read the conversation, he can respond or ask further questions by using a personalized voice in the application. With more than 360 million people around the world suffering from conditions that leave them deaf, this application, and many more in its wake, are meant to make conversations- and life in general- easy for them. While the use of an interpreter costs somewhere between $70 and $120, using hearing aid applications free of cost, even with the advanced version worth a few dollars, is definitely a better price to pay. Are Hearing Applications The Be All And End All? So are hearing applications just perfect? While many try to be, others are being improved as we speak. There is a lot to catch up with when technology changes as fast as it does in the 21st century. No doubt, these applications are yet to become a 100%, their use is definitely coming in handy. Many of the hearing applications on the market need to be fixed to eliminate background noise, to include a sensitivity scale or even to simply update versions. These changes and de-bugs are ongoing. However, what matters is that technological advancement for the deaf and hearing impaired has come a long, long way from being unable to help one of the biggest disable factions of the society. The Top 10 Apps for Hearing Loss The popularity of hearing apps has soared in the recent years. Since being hard to hear can lower the quality of life severely, hearing apps can help these individuals in everyday chores. Hearing apps are being used by thousands of 89 REVERSE HEARING LOSS people in all walks of life. As mentioned previously, these applications can be connected to various devices like televisions, smart phones, tablets and mobiles. Most hearing apps are designed to be downloaded for free. These apps offer basic functionality by helping those with impaired hearing to listen to sounds, commands and suggestions better. However, another set of apps come for a fee. These applications are advanced, offer multiple features and enhance the sense of hearing greatly. Let’s take a look at the 10 most popular apps for hearing aid. 1. Mobile Sign Mobile Sign is an aid for the deaf who can now learn the British Sign Language. To facilitate silent conversations and encourage such people to learn and feel better, Mobile Sign has over 4000 signs corresponding to different words and phrases. These signs can be searched from the predictive search engine of the application, which also keeps a list of previously searched signs in the cache. Mobile Sign is, however, only for those who have lost hearing permanently, and need to keep up with life with the help of sign language. It is available free of cost. 2. Dragon Dictation One of the best dictation apps for the deaf, Dragon Dictation breaks down and simplifies conversations for those who have hearing impairments. This application works by recording the words being spoken by one person to the other. The one who is hard of hearing then reads the works off the screen, understands and is able to reply accurately. Even though some transcribing errors have been reported, the application does a great job to make conversations easy for thousands of people all around the world. For best results, this application should 90 REVERSE HEARING LOSS run in environments that do not have a lot of background noise so that accurate dictation is taken down by the system. Dragon Dictation is available for free and can be downloaded from iTunes. 3. ASL Dictionary Another sign language application, ASL Dictionary stores over 4800 different video tutorials for different signs. It is a great learning app for those who are completely deaf and need to communicate, from the most basic phrases to the most complicated. What’s highly commendable about ASL is the feature to play videos in slow motion and to loop them together to form sentences. This provides for a very organized and structured approach to understanding which signs represent which words and phrases. Signs have been allotted for punctuation marks as well. ASL Dictionary can be downloaded for $2.99 using a Wi-Fi connection. 4. Play It Down Play It Down is a very innovative application that provides an Age Adjuster for music volumes. Depending on how hard a person is of hearing, the application lets users adjust the volume in relation to the degree of deafness. Hence, the app accesses music files and plays then as they would be heard by a partially deaf individual. This program is particularly useful for age related hearing loss because with age, the degree of deafness tends to increase. Consequently, it can be adjusted and used over the years. Moreover, when using it for the first time, the application also lets users test how old their ears are to give them an idea of how much adjustment should be made to the volume. This application is available for free. 5. Tap Tap Tap Tap is one application that has taken into account the need for hearing impaired people to listen to cues and alerts in their 91 REVERSE HEARING LOSS surroundings. It is a brilliant application that allows such people to react to alert and warning sounds by making them audible. Depending on the kind of sounds a person wants to detect, the sensitivity of the application can be adjusted at will. For instance, those whose ears are not hearing properly often miss the sound of a door creaking. With Tap Tap, whenever a door creaks or the smoke alarm goes off, the application will flash and vibrate- alerting the user that a sound is being heard. Definitely a must have application for the physically challenged. Tap Tap can be downloaded for $2.99 6. Louder TV For a mere $1.99, Louder TV now lets hearing-challenged people watch TV shows and movies with their families. Since the regular volume of the TV is not within the range that can be heard by someone whose ears have aged and are not functioning properly, Louder TV adjusts the TV’s volume in relation to how deaf the user is. By connecting headphones, the hearing impaired user can watch TV in the presence of others who enjoy it at the regular volume levels. This application works as a personal amplifier and amplifies the volume by many notches. 7. Z4 Mobile Z4 Mobile takes communication with the hearing impaired leaps and bounds ahead compared to other applications. This application bridges the gap between communication that was left by many other applications. By this we mean that the Z4 Mobile enables a signer to make calls to a non-signer and vice versa- which was previously impossible because a deaf person can’t hear and a regular individual can’t understand sign language. 92 REVERSE HEARING LOSS This application allows individuals to make ZVRS calls by connecting a video session with an interpreter who verbally translates the signals into words for the person listening to the call. With such a high capability and performance, Z4 Mobile is universal and can be downloaded on any device for free. 8. Clear Captions Clear Captions is an interpretation service that works with one’s phone and computer. It has made it easier for deaf people to understand and interpret telephone calls. In real time, while someone is talking on the phone, the call is transcribed to make it easy for you to understand. This application is so useful that is even used by people who do not have hearing problems, only to be 100% sure of what the other person on the call has said. Definitely an app you would have to keep handy for everyday calls. 9. UHear UHear is more of a daily utility application that allows anyone and everyone to test their hearing. Since it is commonly known that hearing loss only happens in old aged people, the application is designed to bust this myth because many conditions and circumstances can lead to early hearing lose as well. The features of the app are easy to use, and it takes a few minutes to tell whether you have the optimal hearing ability or not. Part of the popularity of UHear has been in detecting hearing loss and then taking preemptive measures to cure it. It is available free of cost at the iTunes center. 10. MyEardroid MyEardroid has been developed to help the elderly identify various sounds on a daily basis. This hearing application reduces the 93 REVERSE HEARING LOSS limitations people feel in identifying the sound of the fire alarm, a tap left running or even someone shouting their name in the distance. What is unique about MyEardroid is that it lets a user personalize the app to a large degree. For instance, users are able to pick the sounds they want to be alerted about. These sounds can be saved and when they are picked up, the user will be identified by a text, an image or a vibration. The app is constantly update to add new sounds and increase its sensitivity as well. This list of 10 hearing applications can go on and on because hundreds of other such programs have been developed and launched for people to make use of. The application you choose really depends on the kind of features you want, the cost you are ready to pay for and the various purposes you want the application to fulfill. For many hearing impaired people, using multiple applications works best because they can use the strongest features of each to make sure their conversational and daily needs are met. 94 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Resources for Hearing Loss D eafness and hearing impairments have become very common nowadays. More than 360 million people go through this condition all around the globe, which is why a lot of public services and centers have opened up in various countries to provide information and much needed assistance to people who are often lost on how to behave and who to contact when they age and go through hearing loss. There is one faction that belongs to the state; meaning State Controlled Agencies. These agencies are committed to provide health care benefits, pertaining to ear health and infections. Some examples of these state controlled groups include: 95 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Division of Services for the Deaf and the Hard of Hearing (DSDHH) Department of Public Instruction (DPI) Division of Services for the Blind (DSB) Department of Aging Vocational Rehabilitation Services (VRS) Mental Health Services National Assistive Technology Technical Assistance Partnership (NATTAP) Secondly, many state-wide councils and committees have seats allotted to people who represent those who are deaf or have impaired hearing. Some examples of such committees and seats include: Governor’s Council for People with Disabilities Council for the Deaf and the Hard of Hearing Independent Living Council Architectural Councils Emergency Planning Councils Apart from these committees, many support groups and not-for profit organizations can also be contacted for hearing loss. These companies are run by individuals and companies that provide assistance without charging for facilities and even when they do charge, the rates are affordable. Within this group, some are highly focused towards hearing loss in children; while others deal with people of all ages. The not-for profit institutions are an asset because they provide educational and informational sessions where deaf people can learn sign language and can learn to live without being dependent on others for the most basic chores. 96 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Some important resources in this category are: Hearing Loss Association of America Association of Late Deafened Adults (ALDA) AG Bell Association Beginnings National Association of the Deaf (NAD) Other than formal groups, consumer focused initiatives are also very popular among those who have lost the ability to hear and need to bond with similar people who have gone through the same experience in life. Chat forums and open group memberships have been created so that such people can let out, relate and feel comfortable. Some examples in this category are: SayWhat Club (SWC) Yahoo Groups Hearing Loss Association of America In case of job and financial emergencies for the hearing impaired, the following institutions should be contacted immediately. Veterans Administration (VA) State Programs Audient Alliance Sertoma Hear Now Lions Club International 97 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Conclusion T he ability to hear is a blessing for all. Those who lose hearing at any age, especially because of external and controllable factors like noise and injury, feel depressed and unhappy with their life. Naturally, not being able to hear the many sounds in the world is quite unfortunate. Not only does it lower the quality of life, it often forces these individuals to quit altogether. There are a number of ways to make sure hearing loss can be prevented. Throughout the course of this book, these methods have been highlighted and discussed in detail. It needs to be remembered that any one way to restore hearing or prevent hearing loss may not be effective in most people. It is a combination of a number of methods that gives notable results. For instance, the importance of healthy nutrition can never be ignored. Taking a diet that has essential compounds like magnesium, potassium, folate, iron and vitamins is not only essential for the body, it is highly necessary for healthy ears. Since the inner structures need nutrition and upkeep just like any other organ would, ensuring the supply of nutrients is the best way to prevent old age hearing loss. Apart from this, protecting the ears against loud noises that leave uncomfortable sensations in the ear, poking too hard with cotton tips or sticks and leaving water or other liquids too long in the ear are some ways along with healthy nutrition that prevent hearing loss. It should be understood that while aging is a natural phenomenon and one that can hardly be controlled, hearing loss could be curbed to a large extent. Hence, thinking of it as inevitable further puts you in a situation where one stops taking care of the health and safety of this sensitive organ. Finally, if one does go through the pain of impaired hearing or complete deafness, reverting to the Amish ways of healing is a sensible choice. It takes a certain level of faith and commitment to implement herbal cures to restore hearing. 98 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Amish methods that focus on the use of household substances in hearing loss have proved beneficial for centuries. These methods build a strong connection to nature and help those with impaired hearing to finally hear again, and even improve their hearing compared to what it was before the deafness became permanent. Finally, until these remedies are being implemented, one can use the various hearing applications that have been developed specifically for those who have challenged hearing. These applications are easily downloadable, help in transcribing conversations and give an emotional uplift to deaf personnel-all of which contribute to a high quality of life. 99 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Disclaimer While this guide is meant to provide you with the information you need to stay healthy naturally, it is highly recommend that you consult a physician before you begin any form of regime or follow any of the suggestions in this manual. If you have any side effects as a result of the following information, consult a physician immediately. I am not a doctor, and this publication is provided for informational purposes only. Introduction Most disease and illness is preventable and curable using natural substances. It's been said that every ailment we face as human beings can be remedied with something in nature. Sometimes it may be bark, leaves, or flowers. Other times it may be an herb, root, or fungi. This publication is a compilation of tried and true remedies that have been handed down through the ages. As many people are trying to get back to nature and use more raw materials instead of processed poisons, this guide may help you with a cure or remedy for something that ails you. 100 REVERSE HEARING LOSS 101 REVERSE HEARING LOSS 15-Day Action Plan H aving a natural way to maintain healthy ears and restore hearing loss is essential for everyone. Even if you are not at a risk to lose hearing, keeping ears in good shape means choosing a lifestyle that helps you maintain good overall health. There are a number of natural methods used by doctors and herbalists who assert that hearing loss can happen at any age and for any reason. While noise and age related hearing loss are two of the most common reasons, in many cases, the sense of hearing becomes defected under unusual circumstances. Hence, if you have always cared for your ears, and been mindful of protecting them from damage, the chances of losing hearing later on in life are very slim. In this practical guide, we will take you through 15 days of Ear-care. A combination of nutrition, essential therapies and exercises will be discussed and implemented on a daily basis. These three elements have been proven, time and again, to help those with hearing problems and delay the onset of the same in people who follow these guidelines. While this mix of nutrition, therapy and exercises isn’t written in stone; consistency and regularity is important to make sure that these natural remedies are effective and help you in the long run. Since natural and herbal cures are less intrusive, yet safe, they take some time to yield results. Therefore, being patient and making this a part of everyday routine is the best way to benefit from it. 102 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Week One Day 1 Nutrition: Take particular care to ensure that your diet has a lot of healthy nutrition. Ear health needs a specific dietary requirement that is rich in antioxidants. These antioxidants will help fight infections, harmful viruses and bacteria- thus, reducing the chances of hearing loss by 20%. Throughout the day, make sure of foods that are rich in Folic Acid, the best source of antioxidants. For breakfast, take two to three servings of egg with a glass of milk. The importance of calcium for the healthy development of bones- even those that are in the inner ear- can never be underestimated. On Day 1, we suggest you include a lot of greens in your diet. Make a healthy salad with green spinach, rocket leaves, broccoli and other vegetables like carrots and onions. Spinach is a rich source of antioxidants that helps cleanse the body of free radicals. For supper, try to include red kidney beans in your diet together with some red meat. Therapy: Aromatherapy with essential oils is one of the most effective ways to restore hearing loss. Since essential oils have a plethora of benefits, they should be a regular on your monthly shopping lists. Every day of the plan, you can use a different essential oil recipe to massage or drop in the ears. On day one, take the following ingredients: Cypress Oil – 10 drops Sweet Marjoram Oil – 10 drops Helichrysum Oil – 10 drops 103 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Roman Chamomile Oil – 10 drops Olive Oil – 1 ounce Mix these quantities together in a small bottle. Take a few drops on your fingertips and massage the areas behind the ears, all along the jaw line and then in front of the ears. Do the massage with a gentle hand, close your eyes and relax with the movements. Once the oils are absorbed, wrap a warm sheet or blanket close to the ears and go to bed. Day 2 and 3 Nutrition: The next two days, your diet should include a healthy dose of Coenzyme Q10- another antioxidant that helps break down foods to release energy and prevents harmful bacteria from attacking nerves and small cells in the inner ear. Hard-boiled eggs are a great breakfast option, together with a side of beans. For the rest of the meals of the day, you can come up with interesting combinations of fish, beef and poultry items. BBQ beefsteak has 2.3mg of Coenzyme Q10, which is adequate to kick-start a hearing friendly diet. If you are a salad lover, add a serving of fresh vegan salad with the steak and fish options. Supplement: Coenzyme Q10 is present in very limited quantities in natural foods. Therefore, doctors often recommend taking supplements. A dose of 50mg to 1200mg is often prescribed, depending on how much is needed. If you do not have any apparent hearing problems, you can start taking a small dose of 100-150mg once a day, for the next month or two. 104 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Herbal Tea: Following the Amish ways of curing hearing loss, herbal teas made with a number of beneficial flowers and herbs help keep ears healthy. At night, before going to bed, make a herbal tea with violet leaves, chamomile and oregano, by putting these in boiling water and letting the essence infuse for a few minutes. Then strain out the solids. Add honey to flavor and enjoy the warm tea. Therapy: Bringing some variation in the therapy oils used is a good way to give your ears the maximum benefit. On Day 2 & 3, you can use aromatherapy twice a day, morning and evening to keep the ear structures and skin hydrated and lubricated. Use the following ingredients for this routine: Helichrysum – 10 drops Sweet Marjoram – 15 drops Rosemary – 3 drops Coconut Oil – 1 ounce Put these ingredients together in a small bowl. When combined, take a few drops at a time and massage in circular motions all around the neck, behind the ears and at the nape. The essence of these oils will help improve circulation in blood vessels in the ear and open up clogged passages. Day 4 and 5 Nutrition: Deficiency of Magnesium has been strongly tied to old age hearing loss, which is why it should be a regular part of your diet all through teenage and adult years. There are a number of foods that contain reasonable amounts 105 REVERSE HEARING LOSS of magnesium. On Day 4&5, after taking foods that are high in antioxidants, you will focus on taking Magnesium. The food palette for a Mg-rich diet is quite diverse. Beans and lentils, greens, whole grains, fish, and avocado are some foods that should be on the top of your grocery list. You can start these days with a whole grain cereal and an avocado smoothie to bring some freshness and kick start your metabolism. For the remaining meals, prepare healthy dishes with fish; sides of beans and lentils and salads with lots of leafy greens. Before going to bed, treat yourself to some dark chocolate because it has 327mg of Mg in 100g. Supplements: Since Magnesium is one of those nutrients that is not found in large quantities, it needs to be taken obtained from sources other than food. Magnesium supplements are easily available in every drugstore. To increase the amount of magnesium taken on a daily basis, you can also supplement with dietary pills that give a daily dose of 167mg of Mg. According to individual requirements, these pills can be continued for two months or more. Therapy: Together with a magnesium rich diet, hearing loss can be kept at bay with herbs like Ginkgo and Garlic. Amish cures for hearing loss use these two herbs in particular to restore hearing loss, and to restore it in old aged individuals as well. Due to the popularity of Gingko, it is now available in the form of capsules as well. Consider taking Ginkgo Biloba extract (60mg) a day. This dose can be increased to thrice a day as well. 106 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Herbal potions for hearing loss that use Garlic can be used to massage behind the ears twice a day or can also be put into the ears at bedtime. Use the following ingredients: Two Cloves of Garlic, crushed 15-20 drops (2 teaspoons) of Mustard Oil Heat both the ingredients in a saucepan until the garlic starts to burn. At this point, turn down the heat and let it simmer for two minutes. Allow the potion to cool; then put a few drops in each ear. Ear Wax Removal Appointment: Collection of earwax is a common cause of temporary hearing impairment; but if it is not taken care of, it can lead to unnecessary infections and shortterm hearing loss as well. Ear Wax is not really a nuisance. Within the ear, there are special glands that produce this natural, sticky substance to protect the ear from dust, dirt particles and trap any harmful substances entering the ear. Therefore, the presence of earwax is beneficial; however, if an excess of it collects in the ear, it can cause discomfort, pain, infections and temporary hearing loss. For this reason, it is recommended for everyone, even otherwise healthy individuals, to get their ears cleaned on a regular basis. Ear cleaning is part of healthy hygiene. It can be done at home as well as in a doctor’s office. Depending on how much earwax has collected or the amount of discomfort you are feeling, the procedure to clean the ears can vary in technique and duration. Professional Ear Wax Removal: When you visit an ENT specialist (Ear, Nose and Throat), he will carry out a detailed examination of the ear. Using equipment and cleaning gear, the doctor will be able to take out the hardened earwax from the ear canal, 107 REVERSE HEARING LOSS restoring temporary hearing loss. Riding the ears of excess earwax is a common procedure, hence; make sure you make an appointment with an expert to ensure your ears are healthy and working just fine. At Home Ear Candle Method: If you do not want to visit a doctor to get your ears cleaned, there are a number of natural remedies that can be done at home. Even though many experts advise against ear cleaning at home, since the ears are very delicate and rupturing the eardrum is the biggest threat, the Ear Candle method has been used for centuries as a popular Amish Cure. Here is how it works: Take help from another family member to perform this technique. Wrap a linen cloth on a long, 8-inch dowel rod. This rod should be 3/4th inch thick in circumference. Drip the rod in paraffin wax and let it dry. It should harden in a few minutes. When it does, the cloth and the wax will take the shape of a cone; which enables you to remove the rod from inside. The Amish called this Cone shaped structure the Ear Candle. Sit in an upright position and make your partner put the pointed side of the candle in your ear. Now light the other end of the cone candle. Let the candle burn until a few inches before it reaches the head/ear. Blow it out. When you take out the cone and unwrap it, it will be filled with earwax. Day 6 Nutrition: Omega 3 Fatty Acids have been tied to old age hearing loss for decades. These substances improve and restore hearing loss and are also beneficial for the reduction of inflammation and pain in the ear. Omega 3s are found abundantly in Olive Oil, which is why on Day 6, you will be including Olive Oil in the foods you eat. 108 REVERSE HEARING LOSS For breakfast, fry an omelette in olive oil and sprinkle it as a dressing on your afternoon salad. Adding a side of red and black beans to your dinner incorporates Omega 3 Fatty Acids in your diet. Moreover, during the day, snack on Walnuts that are rich in this nutrient. Exercise: While all types of regular exercises are beneficial for overall health of the body, a few particular ones can be done for healthy ears. Now, keep in mind that since you can’t really see how healthy your ears are on the outside, you may find these exercises useless when you hear about them. However, even though the results of these exercises are not observed instantly, they do have a profound effect on hearing and ear health. Since hearing has a lot to do with the condition and health of the brain, most exercises for hearing loss restoration aim to strength the coordination between the sense of hearing and the sense of interpretation. The Radio Exercise: Try to hear your mother call out to you over the loud stereo playing in the TV Room is something we can all relate to. Hearing sounds over noises is not only impossible for those who are hard of hearing; it is quite difficult for those who have no problems with their ears. Making out the right words in the presence of a lot of clutter determines how well your brain can perceive sounds and interpret the signals sent to it by the ears. Hence, this exercise aims to polish up this interpretation ability. Sit in a comfortable position with a friend or family member at a reasonable distance from you. With no other noise in the background, switch on the radio or the TV and set it at a standard volume. With the noise from the TV filling the room, start a conversation with the other person. Be attentive, hear everything he says, and then reply to the 109 REVERSE HEARING LOSS conversation. All this while, make a mental note regarding how well you can hear the other person and whether you needed repetitions to understand. After a few minutes, increase the volume a notch higher. Resume the conversation. How well can you hear? Take the volume another notch and focus on the conversation happening. The goal here is to help you tune out the noises in the background by engaging the ears and the brain simultaneously. What is the level of volume at which you simply cannot concentrate on the conversation or make out any words being said? Note the volume until which you would focus on the conversation and reply. This is the cut off volume at which your ears and brain can coordinate. Beyond this, you simply cannot tune out the background noises. During Week 2, you will repeat this exercise and try to take the cut off volume higher. Day 7 Nutrition: Vitamin D is another nutrient that is extremely important for healthy ears. Since bone degradation in the inner ear is a result of Vitamin D Deficiency, it is important to include this nutrient in daily diets. On Day 7, we suggest you take a hearty breakfast that includes Fortified Cereals, boiled eggs and dairy products like cream cheese, yogurt and butter. With a healthy start, that is rich with Vitamin D, your body will be able to replenish its stores for the day long exertions. For lunch, consider portions of Trout Fish or Port- both of which have high quantities of vitamin D. Grill or fry these portions lightly to make sure nutrients are not overcooked. Since you have had a heavy breakfast and 110 REVERSE HEARING LOSS lunch, keep dinner light with a mushroom and tofu salad, both of which have 446IU and 157IU of Vitamin D respectively. Supplement: The most famous, and safe, Vitamin D supplement that has been in use for years is Cod Liver Oil Capsules. These capsules have more than 10,000IU of Vitamin D per 100grams- a quantity that is hard to match with foods alone. You can ask your local pharmacist for the required dosage and duration for this supplement. In general, a capsule a day for three to four months is usually prescribed. Therapy: Today’s therapy will involve inhalation- another Amish tradition that has found its way in modern times. 10 Drops of Lavender Oil 5 Drops of Tea tree Oil 2 Tablespoons of Coconut Oil Take an electric steam inhalation system. In the lower part of the inhaler, add these ingredients with water. Switch it on and let the system warm up. When it starts to steam, sit/ lay down close to it and inhale as much vapor as you can. In case you do not have this equipment, you can warm up a large bowl of water until it is steam, add the ingredients to it and inhale the steam. Make sure to wrap a towel around your head when you inhale. Exercise: Exercise plays an important role in Vitamin D absorption. Apart from the many foods, you will take on Day 7 to up your Vitamin D intake, a stroll in the park or a jog on the beach at 12 noon will give you more Vitamin D than 111 REVERSE HEARING LOSS all these foods combined. The reason? Because the sun is the best source of Vitamin D. Therefore, to make full use of the sun, you can head out to a nearby park, pick a spot with a lot of sunlight and stretch your body. Do some pushups, crunches and leg raises; or take a walk under the sun. Whichever exercise you prefer, make sure it is done outdoors. Week Two Day 1 and 2 Nutrition: Vitamin C intake is essential for the body, especially the ears. Since this nutrient is an immune booster, it prevents and fights infections in the ear that lead to hearing loss. The best way to give the body ample of Vitamin C is to up its intake with the foods you eat. To do so, you will start Week Two with fresh fruits like strawberries, kiwi, oranges and guavas. Have a fruit salad for breakfast and add fresh herbs to your lunch and dinner. On the sides of steaks and wraps, include bell peppers and broccoli to make sure you get enough Vitamin C. Supplement: Vitamin C is one of those nutrients that is present in abundance in everyday foods. Hence, you can easily skip supplements for it. Therapy and Exercise: A highly effective exercise for hearing loss is called Acupressure. Acupressure is known to relieve pressure from the head and the ears to ease pains, itching and to improve the flow of the nervous function. Acupressure can be performed easily at home. We recommend doing it with some essential oils like Chamomile and Ginger Extract. 112 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Sit in a peaceful and quite place, dip the first two fingers of both hands into the oil, shaking off the excess. Place these fingers firmly on either side of the temple, and tap gently in a rhythm. After doing so a few times, fold the top part of the ear on the ear opening and tap again- firm but gentle. Repeat these motions 4 to 5 times and rub oil on the same parts. Day 3 Nutrition: Vitamin B12 deficiency has the power to affect hearing loss adversely. Therefore, making sure that this nutrient is present in your diet on a regular basis is necessary. Rich sources of Vitamin B12 are mainly poultry and beef. Animal produce that contains bacteria provides the body with the essential B12. On Day 3, you should make meat and dairy products your focus. Have milk, cheese and yogurt with every meal; and make sure you take sizable portions of fish and chicken. Supplements: If you are a vegan, taking supplements of B12 is the only way to stock up on this nutrient. Vitamin B12 is usually present in Multivitamin capsules that can be purchased over the counter and taken with two meals a day. Herbal Tea: Gingko Bilbo- an excellent herb for hearing loss that increases nerve function- is ideal to be taken in the form of herbal tea. Once you are done with the day, put some Gingko leaves in a pot of water, and put it on the stove for boiling. After 20 minutes, strain the leaves and pour the tea in a cup. Add some lemon for added flavor. 113 REVERSE HEARING LOSS Day 4 and 5 Nutrition: Does your diet include enough minerals? Minerals are usually needed in small amounts. However, their presence is essential for healthy ears. Minerals like iron, zinc, iodine and copper are found naturally in many foods. On Days 4 and 5, your diet will focus on foods like carrots, apples, grapes, tomatoes, figs, kale, prunes, cabbage, potatoes and bananas. Juice up smoothies of these vegetables and fruits to keep yourself fulfilled and going for hours. Flavor these juices with salt and honey. Supplements: If you are beyond 50 years of age, mineral supplements may be required. However, you will have to contact your physician in this regard because the quantity of minerals in the body has to be controlled at all times. Therapy: B&B Tincture is a herbal potion that significantly improves hearing loss. You can purchase it easily from a herbal or drug store. The following mixture should be prepared. 6 drops of B&B Tincture 6 drops of Garlic Oil Mix the B&B Tincture with 6 drops of Garlic Oil. Put this concoction in both ears regularly for 5 to 6 months. Together, the potion is known to restore hearing loss and relieve pain and discomfort caused by inflammation and infections. Exercise: Head out to a public park with an exercise mat. Jog for ten minutes and then lay the mat and sit down peacefully under a tree. It is now time to meditate. Take deep breaths to increase blood circulation. Close your eyes and focus 114 REVERSE HEARING LOSS your energy to hear the sounds around you. Pay attention to every loud or distant sound and try to associate it with a source to sharpen your hearing. Day 6 Nutrition: Green vegetables are important for ear health. On one or two days of the entire week, try to abstain from meaty foods and look towards vegetables and leaves to make your meals healthier. If you want an omelette for breakfast, you can stuff it with a spinach or rocket filling. A vegetable curry with whole grain bread for lunch is simple and ear-healthy meal. Similarly, instead of having greens on the side, you can have an entire bowl of salad for lunch and dinner, together with juices made from celery, cucumber and mint. An all ‘greens’ day will give you essential nutrients like vitamins and magnesium. Therapy: To ease the ears and maintain their health, you will combine the following ingredients in a small saucepan. 3 cloves of garlic 1.5 teaspoons of vinegar ½-teaspoon honey Heat the mixture on a slow flame to let the garlic extract infuse in the honey and vinegar. Next, drain the solid pieces and put the mixture in ear-dropper. Put two to three drops in both ears at bedtime and cover with a towel. Exercise: Repeat the Radio Exercise from last week. This time, you can start from the cutoff volume and take it higher. However, make sure to not increase the 115 REVERSE HEARING LOSS volumes rapidly. Keep one level of volume for a few minutes before increasing or decreasing it to make sure your ears adjust to the level of noise in the room. Record your results and keep them safe for comparisons later on. Day 7 Nutrition: Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant found in mangoes, almonds, leafy greens and broccoli. To increase the intake of Vitamin E on Day 7, you should take a mixture of fruits, nuts and vegetables. A medley salad for brunch, with a lot of almonds and walnut will be the highlight of the day. The remaining meals should also be a combination of fresh fruits and vegetables that are not cooked on high heat. Therapy: Onion and its essence are a known Amish cure for hearing loss. Not only does it improve the ability to hear, onion also has anti-inflammatory properties that help prevent infections, sore ears and itching. You will use this remedy on Day 7 by peeling and cutting a large onion in half. Preheat the oven and place both pieces inside for about 20 to 30 minutes at a moderate temperature. Take out the onions from the oven and let them cool to room temperature. Then squeeze the juice of each into a small bottle. Using a dropper, put a few drops in each ear once a day or every alternate day for a few weeks. Exercise: Yoga has been practiced for years as a way to increase blood circulation to the ears. Practice yoga at least thrice a week to make your body flexible and improve ear and brain coordination. Lay out a yoga mat in a peaceful room, 116 REVERSE HEARING LOSS or outdoors under a tree. Continuously inhale, exhale, and focus on four main postures, namely: Lotus pose, Cobra pose, Tree pose and Triangle pose. 117