Latest news with #Otolaryngology
Yahoo
10-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
How Hearing Aids Could Help You Live Longer, According To Science
A new study suggests that hearing aids and cochlear implants can help people feel more connected and even live longer lives. Adults using hearing aids and implants were better able to engage in group conversations and that they were more at ease in noisy or challenging listening environments. This can have an effect on overall mortality, too, researchers said. Hearing loss is a super common side effect of getting older, with an estimated 1 in 3 adults between the ages of 65 and 74 experiencing it, per Johns Hopkins Medicine. Despite this stark data, many older folks are hesitant to use hearing aids. Now, new research suggests that investing in a hearing aid can do a whole lot more than just help you hear what's going on around you—it could actually help you feel more connected to the people you interact with and even live longer. This was the major takeaway from the study, which was published in JAMA Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery. And while the leap from using a hearing aid to living longer seems like a stretch, doctors who treat hearing loss say otherwise. 'It's not just about hearing better, it's about keeping the brain active and staying connected,' says Janet Choi, MD, MPH, study co-author and an otolaryngologist with Keck Medicine of USC. So, what's behind this connection? Dr. Choi and other hearing specialists break it down. Meet the experts: Janet Choi, MD, MPH, study co-author and an otolaryngologist with Keck Medicine of USC; Robert J. Macielak, MD, an otolaryngologist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center; Meaghan P. Reed, AuD, clinical director of audiology at Massachusetts Eye and Ear For the study, Dr. Choi and her fellow researchers analyzed data from 65 previously published studies that featured data on more than 5,000 people. They specifically looked at how hearing aids and cochlear implants impacted participants' social quality of life, how they felt about the impact of their hearing loss on social situations, and how lonely they felt. The researchers discovered that adults who used hearing devices like hearing aids felt more socially connected and less limited in social situations. They also reported feeling like they were better able to engage in group conversations and that they were more at ease in noisy or challenging listening environments. This scientific analysis follows a 2024 study by Choi that found that adults with hearing loss who use hearing aids have an almost 25 percent lower risk of mortality. About one in three older adults have hearing loss, according to the National Institute on Aging (NIA). The odds of developing hearing loss also increases with age, per the NIA. There are a few reasons why hearing loss is linked to longevity. 'Hearing is deeply connected to how we engage with the world,' Dr. Choi explains. 'When people lose their hearing, they often withdraw socially, which can lead to poor quality of life, social isolation, even earlier cognitive decline.' Hearing loss can even have an indirect impact on health. 'Many with untreated hearing loss may fear visiting physicians or struggle to understand medical instructions and treatment plans, which can lead to delaying or avoiding necessary medical care,' says Meaghan P. Reed, AuD, clinical director of audiology at Massachusetts Eye and Ear. The social isolation and reduced mental stimulation that comes with hearing loss are also known risk factors for cognitive decline, Reed says. 'Studies indicate that individuals with untreated hearing loss are at a significantly higher risk of developing dementia and other cognitive impairments,' she says. 'Additionally, untreated hearing loss often increases healthcare costs and living expenses, adding financial stress. Together, these factors contribute to a decline in overall health and quality of life, which can ultimately reduce lifespan and longevity.' The best way to know if you need a hearing aid is to get your hearing tested, says Robert J. Macielak, MD, an otolaryngologist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. But he also says there are certain signals that suggest it may be time to schedule that test. 'Signs that you should get your hearing tested include difficulty hearing in loud environments or on the phone, having trouble hearing children's voices, or if you find that you need to lip read to understand conversation,' Dr. Macielak says. It's also important to listen to the people around you, Choi says. 'Loved ones often notice the changes before you do,' she says. Reed says you have a few options if you think you need to get your hearing checked. 'Online hearing screening apps are available and are sometimes used by over-the-counter hearing aids to help set their devices,' she says. 'These apps can also be useful for monitoring hearing over time, but they are not comprehensive tests.' Your general practitioner can also do a basic hearing test, but these are usually a quick pass/fail assessment versus an in-depth evaluation, Reed says. From there, you may be referred to a hearing specialist for a more detailed look at what's going on. 'With the availability of over-the-counter hearing aids, there are now more options than ever to get support,' Dr. Choi says. 'I encourage anyone experiencing signs of hearing difficulty to start with a hearing test. You may be surprised by the range of effective solutions available.' You Might Also Like Jennifer Garner Swears By This Retinol Eye Cream These New Kicks Will Help You Smash Your Cross-Training Goals
Yahoo
12-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Gavin Gassen, M.D. Brings His Expertise to ENT and Allergy Associates' Poughkeepsie Office
Dr. Gassen will see both adult and pediatric patients at ENTA's office at 21 Reade Place, Suite 3200, Poughkeepsie, NY, beginning November 1, 2025. ENTA Otolaryngologist and Head and Neck Surgeon Gavin Gassen, M.D. Tarrytown, New York, June 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ENT and Allergy Associates, LLP (ENTA), the largest ear, nose, throat, allergy, and audiology practice in the country, is proud to welcome Gavin M. Gassen, M.D., a board-certified Otolaryngologist and Head and Neck Surgeon, to its team of specialists in Poughkeepsie, NY, beginning November 1, 2025. Dr. Gassen will see both adult and pediatric patients at ENTA's office at 21 Reade Place, Suite 3200, Poughkeepsie, NY. Dr. Gassen brings with him a diverse clinical experience few physicians can match—spanning academic medicine, humanitarian missions, and over a decade of decorated service in the U.S. Navy Medical Corps. Dr. Gassen most recently practiced at Plessen Ear, Nose & Throat in St. Croix, U.S.V.I., while also serving as Adjunct Assistant Professor of Otolaryngology at Tulane University School of Medicine. A New Orleans native, he completed his undergraduate and medical degrees at Tulane, followed by intensive surgical training at Charity Hospital, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, and the University of Maryland. During his military service, Dr. Gassen earned the rank of Commander and served as a Naval Flight Surgeon during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was awarded the Navy/Marine Corps Commendation Medal among other honors, for excellence in patient care and operational leadership. Beyond the clinic, Dr. Gassen has also led medical missions delivering head and neck surgical care to underserved communities and has been published in several peer-reviewed journals. He holds memberships in the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, American Academy of Otolaryngic Allergy, American Rhinologic Society, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and The Society of U.S. Naval Flight Surgeons. In the Poughkeepsie office, Dr. Gassen will join Otolaryngologists Ryan Borress, M.D.; Jason Cohen, M.D., F.A.C.S; Rami Payman, M.D., Hector Rodriguez, M.D.; Mark Very, M.D.; and Allergist/Immunologist Michael Hugh, M.D. 'Dr. Gassen's background is as impressive as it is unique,' said Steven Gold, M.D., Vice President and Chair of the ENTA Recruitment Committee. 'He's served with distinction in the U.S. Navy, trained at world-renowned institutions, and delivered care across academic, private, and international humanitarian settings. That kind of experience translates into a physician who brings both clinical excellence and deep compassion to his patients. I have no doubt that his addition to our Poughkeepsie team will result in an immediate and meaningful benefit to the community. We are truly proud to welcome him to ENTA.' To learn more about ENTA, find a local office or book an appointment, visit or call 1-855-ENTA-DOC. About ENT and Allergy Associates, LLP: ENT and Allergy Associates, LLP (ENTA) is the largest ENT, Allergy, and Audiology practice in the country, with over 450 clinicians who now practice in over 60 clinical locations throughout New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Each ENTA clinical office is comprised of world-class physicians who are specialists and sub-specialists in their respective fields, providing the highest level of expertise and care. With a wide range of services including Adult and Pediatric ENT and Allergy, Voice and Swallowing, Advanced Sinus and Skull Base Surgery, Facial Plastics and Reconstructive Surgery, Treatment of Disorders of the Inner Ear and Dizziness, Asthma-related services, Diagnostic Audiology, Hearing Aid Dispensing, Sleep and CT Services, ENTA Is able to meet the needs of patients of all ages. ENTA is also affiliated with some of the most prestigious medical institutions in the world, including The Mount Sinai Health System, Montefiore Medical Center, Northwell Health and Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center. Each year ENTA physicians are voted 'Top Doctor' by Castle Connolly, a true testament to the exceptional care and service they provide to their patients. Attachment ENTA Otolaryngologist and Head and Neck Surgeon Gavin Gassen, M.D. CONTACT: Jason Campbell ENT and Allergy Associates, LLP 914-984-2531 Jcampbell@ in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
19-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
ENT and Allergy Associates Welcomes Otolaryngologist Ravi Patel, M.D. to their Madison Avenue Office
Otolaryngologist Ravi Patel, M.D., will be joining the Madison Avenue clinical site in Manhattan, located at 18 East 48th Street, 2nd Floor, as of September 1, 2025. Otolaryngologist Ravi Patel, M.D. Tarrytown, New York, May 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ENT and Allergy Associates, LLP (ENTA), the nation's largest ENT, Allergy, and Audiology specialty practice, is continuing its focus on expanding patient access to high-quality ENT care in the New York City region. To further that goal, ENTA proudly announces that otolaryngologist Ravi Patel, M.D., will be joining the practice's Madison Avenue clinical site in Manhattan, as of September 1, 2025. Dr. Patel graduated with B.A. degrees in Chemistry and Cognitive Sciences with a concentration in Neuroscience from Rice University in Houston. He also minored in biochemistry and cell biology. He earned his medical degree from the Zucker School of Medicine in Hempstead, NY. Dr. Patel then completed his residency in Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery at Hofstra/Northwell. He has co-authored publications on a wide range of topics including 'Adenoidectomy: Inpatient Criteria Study' in the American Journal of Otolaryngology, 'Immune-Mediated Sensorineural Hearing Loss in the Pediatric Population' in Oto Head and Neck Surgery, and more. Dr. Patel will be practicing at ENTA's state-of-the-art Madison Avenue facility located at 18 East 48th Street, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10017. Dr. Patel will practice alongside otolaryngologists Jonathan Aviv, M.D., Sujana S. Chandrasekhar, M.D., Ofer Jacobowitz, M.D., Jason A. Moche, M.D., and allergist / immunologist, Ujwala Kaza, M.D. "We are very excited to welcome Dr. Ravi Patel to our growing team,' expressed Steven Gold, M.D., Vice President, and Chair of the ENTA Recruitment Committee. "It is integral that we continue to recruit the best and brightest of the next generation of physicians, and we believe Dr. Patel embodies that. He will be a huge asset to both our practice and the community he will serve.' To learn more about ENTA, find a local office or book an appointment, visit or call 1-855-ENTA-DOC. About ENT and Allergy Associates LLP: ENT and Allergy Associates, LLP (ENTA) is the largest ENT, Allergy, and Audiology practice in the country, with over 450 clinicians who now practice in over 60 clinical locations throughout New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Each ENTA clinical office is comprised of world-class physicians who are specialists and sub-specialists in their respective fields, providing the highest level of expertise and care. With a wide range of services including Adult and Pediatric ENT and Allergy, Voice and Swallowing, Advanced Sinus and Skull Base Surgery, Facial Plastics and Reconstructive Surgery, Treatment of Disorders of the Inner Ear and Dizziness, Asthma-related services, Diagnostic Audiology, Hearing Aid Dispensing, Sleep and CT Services, ENTA Is able to meet the needs of patients of all ages. ENTA is also affiliated with some of the most prestigious medical institutions in the world, including The Mount Sinai Health System, Montefiore Medical Center, Northwell Health and Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center. Each year ENTA physicians are voted 'Top Doctor' by Castle Connolly, a true testament to the exceptional care and service they provide to their patients. Attachment Otolaryngologist Ravi Patel, M.D. CONTACT: Jason Campbell ENT and Allergy Associates, LLP 914-984-2531 jcampbell@ in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
