Latest news with #hearingLoss
Yahoo
09-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Researchers used gene therapy to restore hearing in adults
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, BGR may receive an affiliate commission. Up to three in every 1,000 newborns is born with hearing loss in one or both ears. While cochlear implants have long been a life-changing option, they involve surgery and can't fully replicate the subtlety of natural hearing. But researchers may have finally opened the door to an alternative option. According to new research, scientists have successfully used gene therapy to restore hearing in adults with congenital deafness, marking a major milestone in the quest to restore hearing in people of all ages. Today's Top Deals XGIMI Prime Day deals feature the new MoGo 4 and up to 42% off smart projectors Best deals: Tech, laptops, TVs, and more sales Best Ring Video Doorbell deals We know that gene therapy can be extremely powerful. Not only has gene editing opened the door for many potential treatments, but it has also paved the way for groundbreaking research like hypoallergenic cats, and more. This new treatment can restore hearing loss in adults by targeting a rare form of genetic hearing loss called OTOF-related deafness. This condition stems from mutations in the OTOF gene, which normally produces a protein called otoferlin. Otoferlin is critical for transmitting sound signals from the inner ear to the brain. That signal chain is broken in patients with this mutation. This leads to hearing loss from birth onward. Because the inner ear structures remain healthy, though, the condition is well suited for gene therapy treatments. To deliver a working copy of the OTOF gene, researchers used a harmless, modified virus that was released directly into the inner ear's sensory cells. This virus essentially acted as a courier, carrying the fixed gene into the cells so they can begin producing otoferlin and hopefully restore sound signaling. Initial tests in children showed promising results, but a bigger question remained: Could gene therapy work in older patients? To find out, the team launched a clinical trial involving 10 participants between the ages of 1 and 24, all diagnosed with OTOF-related deafness. The results were encouraging across the board—and especially noteworthy in older participants. Hearing improvements were both rapid and significant. On average, participants showed a 62% improvement in brainstem response tests and a 78% gain in behavioral hearing assessments. Some were able to detect the sounds of speech within just a few weeks. This research marks the first time gene therapy has been shown to restore hearing in both adolescents and adults. Side effects were reportedly mild and temporary, with no serious complications observed. Most commonly, patients experienced a brief drop in white blood cell counts. A full write-up on the research is available at The Conversation, as well as in the official published study available in Nature Medicine. More Top Deals Memorial Day security camera deals: Reolink's unbeatable sale has prices from $29.98 See the
Yahoo
09-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
The best rechargeable hearing aids of 2025, according to experts
The days of $7,000 hearing aids and frustrating battery changes are officially history. For those searching for the best rechargeable hearing aids, today's market offers unprecedented affordability and convenience. Hearing loss shouldn't cost you a fortune, and finally, new government rulings agree. When the Food and Drug Administration greenlighted over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids in 2022, they unlocked a new era in hearing technology. What was once a prescription-only market with eye-watering prices has become an accessible solution for millions of Americans. There are now quality options starting at just a few hundred dollars, with both OTC hearing aids and prescription models offering impressive tech that was unimaginable a few years ago. The modern hearing aid market now features sleek, nearly invisible devices with smartphone apps; Bluetooth connectivity for streaming calls and music directly to your ears; advanced noise cancellation for crowded environments; and automatic adjustments that optimize sound as you move between different settings. The days of beige, clunky devices are gone, replaced by stylish options in various colors and designs. Among the biggest game changers? Rechargeable technology that eliminates those tiny, expensive disposable batteries forever. "A rechargeable hearing aid can be advantageous," says Dr. Cory Bovenzi, an otolaryngologist (head-and-neck surgeon). "You do not have to buy the specialized and sometimes hard-to-find batteries over and over again to continue using your aids," he explains. Dr. Michael Yong, an otolaryngologist and neurorhinologist at Pacific Neuroscience Institute, adds that these hearing aids eliminate the frustrating challenge of handling the tiny batteries of traditional models. No more squinting at microscopic symbols or fumbling with delicate battery doors — a significant benefit for those with dexterity challenges or vision issues. Working with leading audiologists and ENT specialists, we identified what truly matters in hearing technology. After extensive research analyzing top-rated models for battery life, ease of use, sound quality and overall value, we've assembled this guide to the best rechargeable hearing aids of 2025. Best rechargeable hearing aid overall Other rechargeable hearing aids we recommend for 2025 Types of hearing aids Factors to consider when buying a hearing aid How we chose the best rechargeable hearing aids Other hearing aids we considered FAQs Meet our experts Update, May 7, 2025: We checked all product prices and availability. Our No. 1 choice for the best rechargeable hearing aid has been updated, and we've added four options that didn't make our top picks. (back to top) (back to top) Feeling overwhelmed by all the hearing aid options? You're not alone! Today's hearing technology comes in more shapes and sizes than ever before, each with unique advantages for different lifestyles and hearing needs. To help cut through the confusion and help you discover which hearing aid style might be your perfect match, here are the most common types of hearing aid styles: Behind-the-ear (BTE): These larger, powerful models sit behind your ear with a tube connecting to an earmold. They're easier to handle, adjust and clean. While more visible than other options, they have the most features, the longest battery life and are suitable for severe hearing loss. Receiver-in-canal (RIC): The speaker of RIC hearing aids sits inside your ear canal, while the processor hides behind your ear. They offer excellent sound quality, are less visible than BTE models and work for mild to severe hearing loss. Their versatile design makes them suitable for many. In-the-ear (ITE): Custom-molded to fill the outer portion of your ear, these one-piece units are easier to handle than smaller styles but are more discreet than BTE models. Great for mild to severe hearing loss, and they often include directional microphones for better hearing in noisy places. In-the-canal (ITC): These partially fit into your ear canal with a small portion showing in the outer ear. More discreet than ITE models, they work well for mild to moderate hearing loss but have smaller batteries and fewer features due to size constraints. Completely-in-canal (CIC): If you're looking for the most discreet hearing aids, CIC is an appealing option. They sit deep in your ear canal, making them nearly invisible. While aesthetically appealing, they're harder to adjust, accommodate fewer features and aren't suitable for severe hearing loss. Furthermore, their tiny batteries need more frequent changing, and they're not recommended for those with dexterity issues. (back to top) Besides the type of hearing aid, there are other elements to mull over when buying one. Most importantly, you'll want one that suits your level of hearing loss, needs and lifestyle. At baseline, "The goal is that they can turn sounds up loud enough to optimize audibility for an individual with hearing loss," says Meaghan Reed, Director of Clinical Audiology at Mass Eye and Ear. "The amount of volume that an individual needs to help them communicate and meet their listening needs varies person to person." Beyond that, there are some specifics to keep in mind. Hearing aid prices range dramatically from a few hundred dollars for basic models to several thousand for premium tech. As you shop, bear in mind that many prescription hearing aids are priced individually, meaning a "$2,000 price tag" could be $4,000 for both ears. In contrast, most over-the-counter options advertise the full pair price upfront. This difference can create sticker shock if you're not paying attention to how prices are listed. MBefore making any purchase, call your insurance provider to check your specific coverage. Also worth noting: any hearing aids qualify as FSA/HSA-eligible expenses, allowing you to use tax-advantaged health care funds to offset costs. Your hearing needs should drive your decision between prescription and over-the-counter options. OTC hearing aids have improved dramatically, offering quality and features that rival many prescription devices, often at significantly lower prices. The key difference? Personalization. Prescription aids require professional fitting by an audiologist who tailors them to your unique hearing profile. This makes them ideal for complex or severe hearing loss, where subtle adjustments make a big difference. The professional relationship also provides ongoing support and adjustments as your hearing changes. OTC devices work best for those with mild to moderate hearing loss who prefer convenience and cost savings over maximum customization. Prescription hearing aids offer the white-glove treatment. Simply show up at your audiologist's office, and they handle everything from programming to fitting, explaining every button and feature while making precise adjustments for your specific hearing profile. With OTC options, you're in the driver's seat. Many come with user-friendly smartphone apps that walk you through self-administered hearing tests and personalization. While this DIY approach gives you flexibility and saves money, there's a learning curve that some folks find challenging. However, many OTC brands now include remote support options, allowing a professional audiologist to connect virtually to your devices and make adjustments without an office visit. If technology makes you uneasy or you have complex hearing needs, consider brands offering robust setup assistance, or go the prescription route. Most modern hearing aids now connect to smartphone apps for easy adjustments on the go. These apps let you discreetly change volume, switch between environments and track battery life without touching your ears. If you're comfortable with technology, look for models advertising app compatibility to transform your hearing experience. Not tech-savvy? Many excellent options still offer simple physical controls instead of digital features. Bluetooth-compatible hearing aids do double-duty as wireless earbuds, streaming phone calls, music, podcasts and TV audio directly to your ears. This connection eliminates background noise and delivers clearer sound exactly where needed. Before buying, check compatibility specifics. Some hearing aids work seamlessly with Apple devices but have limited Android functionality (or vice versa). Review which smartphones and tablets pair with your chosen model to avoid frustration later. Many manufacturers list compatibility details on their product pages, saving you the headache of returns or exchanges. Noise cancellation technology helps filter out background chaos in busy environments, while directional microphones focus on conversations directly in front of you. Some models even include relaxation modes that play calming sounds to help manage tinnitus. These bells and whistles typically increase the price tag, so prioritize features that match your specific lifestyle needs. Often overlooked but equally valuable are generous trial periods and comprehensive support packages. The ability to test-drive your hearing aids in real-world situations might be more beneficial than fancy technical features you rarely use. (back to top) Finding the best rechargeable hearing aids meant scrutinizing what really matters to people with hearing loss. We started by consulting audiologists and ENT specialists (ear, nose and throat doctors) to understand what separates invaluable devices from expensive disappointments. Armed with their expert insights, we identified critical features like battery longevity, sound quality and ease of use. We then researched countless top-rated options through their paces — both OTC models you can grab without a prescription and premium aids available through hearing professionals. Our team considered performance in challenging real-world environments, sound quality, battery life and how intuitive the controls were. We also considered practical factors like warranty coverage, availability of professional support and real user experiences. The winners represent the perfect balance of technology, convenience and reliability, without unnecessary bells and whistles that drive up costs without improving quality of life. (back to top) Eargo 7: This hearing aid inserts completely into your ear canal for a virtually invisible experience. For the $2,700 price point, it features sophisticated Sound Adjust+ technology to seamlessly adjust independently. These OTC hearing aids have near-prescription-quality performance and have lifetime support from hearing professionals. Widex Moment CIC: You can enjoy incredible sound quality delivered with unprecedented speed with these hearing aids, thanks to their revolutionary ZeroDelay technology. There are also impressive connectivity features, including Bluetooth streaming, hands-free iPhone calling and a convenient "find my hearing aid" function in the companion app. The only catch? Be prepared to invest between $3,000 and $7,000 to experience these premium Widex Moment aids. Horizon Go IX: Perfect for active adults with mild to profound hearing loss, the Go IX uses dual sound processors to separate speech from background noise, creating better spatial awareness in crowded rooms. Plus, the intuitive smartphone app lets you discreetly adjust settings on the go. At around $6,000 per pair, they offer impressive technology, but the price point may be inaccessible for many. (back to top) Standard Medicare plans (Parts A and B) don't cover hearing aids. Although frustrating, the silver lining is that they typically cover necessary diagnostic hearing tests and screenings that help determine your needs. However, as Yong advises, many Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) offer partial coverage for hearing aids, which could save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars. It's worth calling your specific plan provider to ask about your hearing aid benefits, as many people don't realize they have coverage available. Rechargeable hearing aids are the smartphone of hearing devices. Charge them at night, and they're ready to go in the morning. "Rechargeable hearing aids have a charging device that can recharge an internal nonremovable battery in the hearing aids," Bovenzi explains. The beauty of this technology is in its simplicity for daily use, especially for those with arthritis or vision challenges. He adds that these hearing aids are often more convenient than traditional options, as they're easy to use and eliminate the need to buy new batteries or change the small batteries out when the old ones expire. Rechargeable devices vary in how long they can hold a charge; it's usually recommended that you recharge your hearing aids every night so they're ready to use all day without interruption. For hearing aids with shorter battery lives, you can simply pop them into their charger during quiet moments, like watching TV or taking a nap, just like you do with your cellphone. It comes down to your lifestyle and preferences. "Rechargeable hearing aids usually have several advantages, one of the main ones being that you generally don't have to remove the battery to replace it, and you can simply recharge the device by putting it in a docking area," Yong says. For many folks, this convenience factor is huge as there's no more fumbling with tiny batteries or making emergency drugstore runs when batteries die during dinner with the grandkids. Plus, there's a hidden benefit that many don't consider: "The other big advantage, I would say, is that they lend themselves to routine, which can be really important. Users will usually charge the hearing aids every day at a similar time, which reduces the chance of suddenly running out of battery," Yong says. The potential downside? Rechargeable models typically cost more upfront, although you'll save on battery expenses. If you're budget-conscious, don't worry! "These devices are generally getting cheaper over time," Yong says. And many users find the higher initial investment well worth the daily convenience, especially if you have dexterity or vision challenges. Battery life varies dramatically across models. Some premium rechargeable hearing aids can power through up to 51 hours on a single charge, enough for a long weekend without worrying, while budget-friendly options might give out after just 10 hours. Higher price often correlates with longer battery life, but there are exceptions worth exploring. Before fixating on maximum battery life, think about your daily needs. If you typically wear hearing aids from morning coffee until dinner, then a nine-hour battery might be perfectly adequate. Consider your lifestyle: Do you regularly forget to charge electronics? Do you frequently take long trips away from power sources? Are you often out all day and into evening social events? The perfect balance is finding a hearing aid with enough battery life for your typical day, plus a small buffer, without paying extra for capacity you'll rarely use. Today's hearing aid batteries have impressive staying power. "These batteries can be recharged about 500 to 1,000 times, meaning these can last for a few years before they need to be replaced," Bovenzi says. To put that in perspective, if you charge your hearing aids nightly, that's anywhere from 18 months to nearly three years of use before needing a battery replacement. This long lifespan makes rechargeable hearing aids increasingly cost-effective, especially when you factor in the hundreds of disposable batteries you won't need to purchase. Yes, cheap hearing aids work — although they may not last as long as their pricier counterparts, and they come with other trade-offs. "As with many other things, when it comes to hearing aids, you get what you pay for," Bovenzi says. Today's premium hearing aids go far beyond simple amplification. "There is a lot of sophisticated technology involved in hearing aid development," Bovenzi explains, noting that modern devices "can have different settings based on your environment and your specific type of hearing loss." A budget option might be adequate for occasional use or mild hearing loss. But if you rely on your hearing aids all day, every day, or have complex hearing needs, investing in better technology could dramatically improve your quality of life. As Bovenzi suggests, cheaper models may sacrifice some of the audio quality you'll experience with higher-end versions, which can make the difference between hearing sounds and truly understanding conversations. (back to top) Dr. Cory Bovenzi, otolaryngologist in Denver Meaghan Reed, clinical director of audiology at Mass Eye and Ear in Boston. Dr. Michael Yong, otolaryngologist and neurorhinologist at the Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, Calif. Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health. (back to top)
Yahoo
06-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Breakthrough gene therapy jab reverses hearing loss in weeks
A single jab of a breakthrough gene therapy could reverse hearing loss in people within weeks, according to new research. The cutting-edge therapy improved hearing in children and adults with congenital deafness or severe hearing impairment, with a 7-year-old regaining almost full hearing in a clinical trial, researchers from Sweden's Karolinska Institutet said. The clinical trial, detailed in the journal Nature Medicine, showed that a healthy copy of the OTOF gene injected in the inner ear improved hearing of all 10 participants. The small-scale trial included people who had a genetic form of deafness or severe hearing impairment caused by mutations in a gene called OTOF. These mutations cause a deficiency of the protein otoferlin, which plays a key role in transmitting sound signals from the ear to the brain. While the therapy seemed to work best in children, researchers said, it could benefit adults as well. In the trial, a synthetic, harmless version of the adeno-associated virus was used to deliver a properly functional OTOF gene to the inner ear via a single injection. The effects of the therapy were evident in the majority of patients, whose hearing recovered rapidly after just a month. After six months, researchers noted considerable hearing improvement in all participants, with their average volume of perceptible sound improving from 106 decibels to 52. Those between the ages of five and eight responded best to the treatment, the study found. One seven-year-old girl quickly recovered almost all her hearing, and she was able to hold daily conversations with her mother four months afterwards. 'This is the first time that the method has been tested in teenagers and adults,' Maoli Duan, an author of the study from Karolinska Institutet, said. "Hearing was greatly improved in many of the participants, which can have a profound effect on their life quality. We will now be following these patients to see how lasting the effect is.' Researchers also found that the treatment was safe and well-tolerated. Participants did not report any serious adverse reactions in the follow-up period of 6-12 months. The most common reaction was a reduction in the number of the immune system's neutrophils, a type of white blood cell. "OTOF is just the beginning," Dr Duan said, adding that researchers were working on other common genes behind deafness such as GJB2 and TMC1. 'These are more complicated to treat, but animal studies have so far returned promising results. We are confident that patients with different kinds of genetic deafness will one day be able to receive treatment.'
Yahoo
06-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Breakthrough gene therapy jab reverses hearing loss in weeks
A single jab of a breakthrough gene therapy could reverse hearing loss in people within weeks, according to new research. The cutting-edge therapy improved hearing in children and adults with congenital deafness or severe hearing impairment, with a 7-year-old regaining almost full hearing in a clinical trial, researchers from Sweden's Karolinska Institutet said. The clinical trial, detailed in the journal Nature Medicine, showed that a healthy copy of the OTOF gene injected in the inner ear improved hearing of all 10 participants. The small-scale trial included people who had a genetic form of deafness or severe hearing impairment caused by mutations in a gene called OTOF. These mutations cause a deficiency of the protein otoferlin, which plays a key role in transmitting sound signals from the ear to the brain. While the therapy seemed to work best in children, researchers said, it could benefit adults as well. In the trial, a synthetic, harmless version of the adeno-associated virus was used to deliver a properly functional OTOF gene to the inner ear via a single injection. The effects of the therapy were evident in the majority of patients, whose hearing recovered rapidly after just a month. After six months, researchers noted considerable hearing improvement in all participants, with their average volume of perceptible sound improving from 106 decibels to 52. Those between the ages of five and eight responded best to the treatment, the study found. One seven-year-old girl quickly recovered almost all her hearing, and she was able to hold daily conversations with her mother four months afterwards. 'This is the first time that the method has been tested in teenagers and adults,' Maoli Duan, an author of the study from Karolinska Institutet, said. "Hearing was greatly improved in many of the participants, which can have a profound effect on their life quality. We will now be following these patients to see how lasting the effect is.' Researchers also found that the treatment was safe and well-tolerated. Participants did not report any serious adverse reactions in the follow-up period of 6-12 months. The most common reaction was a reduction in the number of the immune system's neutrophils, a type of white blood cell. "OTOF is just the beginning," Dr Duan said, adding that researchers were working on other common genes behind deafness such as GJB2 and TMC1. 'These are more complicated to treat, but animal studies have so far returned promising results. We are confident that patients with different kinds of genetic deafness will one day be able to receive treatment.'
The Independent
04-07-2025
- Health
- The Independent
Breakthrough gene therapy jab reverses hearing loss in weeks
A single jab of a breakthrough gene therapy could reverse hearing loss in people within weeks, according to new research. The cutting-edge therapy improved hearing in children and adults with congenital deafness or severe hearing impairment, with a 7-year-old regaining almost full hearing in a clinical trial, researchers from Sweden 's Karolinska Institutet said. The clinical trial, detailed in the journal Nature Medicine, showed that a healthy copy of the OTOF gene injected in the inner ear improved hearing of all 10 participants. The small-scale trial included people who had a genetic form of deafness or severe hearing impairment caused by mutations in a gene called OTOF. These mutations cause a deficiency of the protein otoferlin, which plays a key role in transmitting sound signals from the ear to the brain. While the therapy seemed to work best in children, researchers said, it could benefit adults as well. In the trial, a synthetic, harmless version of the adeno-associated virus was used to deliver a properly functional OTOF gene to the inner ear via a single injection. The effects of the therapy were evident in the majority of patients, whose hearing recovered rapidly after just a month. After six months, researchers noted considerable hearing improvement in all participants, with their average volume of perceptible sound improving from 106 decibels to 52. Those between the ages of five and eight responded best to the treatment, the study found. One seven-year-old girl quickly recovered almost all her hearing, and she was able to hold daily conversations with her mother four months afterwards. 'This is the first time that the method has been tested in teenagers and adults,' Maoli Duan, an author of the study from Karolinska Institutet, said. "Hearing was greatly improved in many of the participants, which can have a profound effect on their life quality. We will now be following these patients to see how lasting the effect is.' Researchers also found that the treatment was safe and well-tolerated. Participants did not report any serious adverse reactions in the follow-up period of 6-12 months. The most common reaction was a reduction in the number of the immune system's neutrophils, a type of white blood cell. "OTOF is just the beginning," Dr Duan said, adding that researchers were working on other common genes behind deafness such as GJB2 and TMC1. 'These are more complicated to treat, but animal studies have so far returned promising results. We are confident that patients with different kinds of genetic deafness will one day be able to receive treatment.'
