Hearing loss and balance issues: Two Edinburgh clinics combine to offer all-round service for patients
Hearing loss is often dismissed as an inevitable part of growing older, and many people simply put up with it without seeking help.
Stephen Fairfield, who owns family-run firm Fairfield Hearing in Edinburgh, is working hard to dispel myths about hearing loss, and the stigma of hearing aids.
But he says one of the lesser known associated conditions with ear problems is balance. Recent studies indicate people with untreated hearing loss are three times more likely to suffer falls; conversely, people with properly fitted hearing aids are significantly less likely to have these issues. Investigating the link can improve people safety and their ability to live independently.
Now, Fairfield Hearing is working alongside Edinburgh Balance Clinic, to find treatments to alleviate symptoms and improve clients’ quality of life.
Why does it happen?
Stephen said: “Our hearing systems and our balance organs share the same mechanisms and connections to the brain … when there is a problem affecting one it’s not uncommon for the other to be impacted.
“This can present itself as dizziness, feelings of vertigo, instability and falls, all of which are really detrimental to living a full and enjoyable life.”
The condition can come on suddenly, as an acute episode or be an on-going problem.
And while people suffering from balance issues will quite rightly seek GP help initially, the role of the audiologist and the physiotherapist can be crucial in resolving these difficulties.
Can it be fixed?
“Studies show that improving your hearing will improve your balance in many cases,” said Stephen. “It’s a fascinating area, and I am delighted to be working with Dill Hurwitz, a physiotherapist at Edinburgh Balance Clinic, to provide a holistic service to help people when their conditions cover more than one area of specialism.
“While improving your hearing can improve your balance, there are some conditions that require much more complex intervention. By working hand-in-hand we try to offer a varied approach to find the solution that works best for each client. Our aim is to make the symptoms much more manageable and have less impact on everyday life.”
What happens at my appointment?
Stephen is able to refer clients directly to Dill where he thinks her input would be beneficial. For total convenience, the clinics are in the same building.
Stephen added: “We like to work on more than just the initial hearing loss, and to think of the client’s wellbeing as a whole, then work with them to restore quality of life. We are delighted to be working alongside another established Edinburgh business to deliver for people in the city, whatever their age, who have issues with hearing and balance.”
To have an assessment simply contact Stephen by phone or email 0131 378 5800 or email [email protected], or visit the clinic at 2 Stafford Street, Edinburgh EH3 7AU.