Military
Tinnitus and hearing loss are by far the most prevalent service-connected disability among veterans and military personnel caused by exposure to loud noises during military service (study). It’s characterized by a constant ringing, buzzing, or roaring in the ears, affecting nearly a million veterans. Tinnitus can have significant side effects, diminishing one’s quality of life by making it difficult to sleep, concentrate, or relax, and it can even lead to social and professional isolation.
Tinnitus should not be ignored, as untreated tinnitus can be as debilitating as hearing loss. Furthermore, hearing damage tends to worsen with age and is associated with anxiety, depression, heart disease, impaired cognitive function, memory problems, and feelings of isolation. Tinnitus and hearing loss are often interconnected and share the same causes.
Giving back to the community is at the heart of everything we do, and so we are offering discounts for veterans, active military personnel, and first responders. Our heroes are welcome to schedule a no-charge, 30-minute consultation—no commitment, just a chance to talk, ask questions, and see if our approach feels right.
Many veterans and active-duty service members may downplay tinnitus because its symptoms are internal, leading to anxiety and isolation. Understanding that tinnitus is real and treatable is the crucial first step towards regaining control of your life and finding relief, not only for hearing health but also for mental well-being.
First Responders
Around 40% of firefighters suffer from hearing loss, often accompanied by tinnitus (ringing in the ears), which can negatively impact their job performance and lives. Law enforcement officers and ambulance drivers are often affected by tinnitus and hearing loss as well. First responders risk hearing problems because of their prolonged exposure to loud noises from sirens, air horns, guns, and various tools they use during their work. Firefighters, mainly, are also exposed to chemicals that can harm their hearing, especially during overhaul operations.
Encouraging the consistent use of hearing protection is crucial to prevent noise-induced tinnitus. Training and education on the importance of protecting one’s hearing are essential. Regular hearing tests and evaluations can help identify tinnitus at an early stage. Early intervention can prevent tinnitus from worsening. If tinnitus develops, there are various strategies to manage it, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, sound therapy, and tinnitus retraining therapy. These approaches can help individuals habituate to the sound and reduce its impact on their daily lives.
Discounts for Veterans, Active Military, and First Responders
Sound Relief encourages individuals who have sacrificed for their country and may have tinnitus or hearing challenges to consider getting a hearing evaluation and potentially receive specialized technology for tinnitus, hearing loss, or hypersensitivity to sound. It’s important to recognize that tinnitus or other hearing issues can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life, including their mental and emotional well-being. Preventive measures and support services are essential to mitigate the risks and effects of tinnitus, hearing loss, or hyperacusis. Schedule an appointment at one of our 5 Colorado and 3 Arizona offices.
At Sound Relief Tinnitus & Hearing Center, we provide hope and help to those living with tinnitus and other hearing health issues. Our patients are at the center of everything we do, and we strive to guide them to overcome their challenges by delivering innovative and compassionate healthcare.
Dr. Julie Prutsman, owner of this family-owned practice, has expanded to 9 locations across Colorado and Arizona. In 2012, she founded Sound Relief in her hometown of Highlands Ranch, Colorado and continues to foster their mission through mentorship of the brightest minds in the field of Audiology.