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Getbig Main Boards => Gossip & Opinions => Topic started by: Primemuscle on September 06, 2022, 02:02:50 PM

Title: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Primemuscle on September 06, 2022, 02:02:50 PM
Last Friday I saw an ENT doctor for the inner ear problems I've had since having COVID last February. My right ear drum is retracted which suggests there is still congestion/infection in the right eustachian tube. It is also the ear with the most hearing loss.

The doctor prescribed Sudafed 24 hour, which is 240 mg. I took the first one this morning. Now I feel woozy like on the verge of passing out. It could be that I am allergic to Pseudoephedrine HCI. Unless I start feeling better real soon, I will cease taking it. I couldn’t believe the hassle I went through to get Sudafed. Although no prescription is needed, you must show ID and get them from the pharmacist. Also, many pharmacies don’t sell it.

The audiologist identified my hearing loss in the right ear within a certain range as profound. The other ear is moderate to severe. I have worn hearing aids for over 6 years. They no longer work well. Oftentimes I hear better without them.

These were state of the art hearing aids which cost me nearly $7 G for the two. Back then Regence Medicare Advantage did not cover any of the cost of hearing aids. Now they do. I think up to $1,000 each. Also, I think hearing aids cost less now than they did then.

The new audiologist is going to let me sample several brands to determine which works the best for me. This is something the previous audiologist didn't offer. Not that it would have made much difference since I had no idea what to expect of them back then.

Hearing loss is incredibly isolating. I have a lot of difficulty making out what folks are saying. Rather than ask them to repeat it for me again, I started pretending I heard them and basically nod in the affirmative because yes is usually better than no. One of my best friends is so soft spoken, I cannot understand a word she's saying. So, I avoid visiting her and her boyfriend.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: deadz on September 06, 2022, 02:04:40 PM
Verbal diarrhea. Tell it to someone who cares! Very strange.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: IroNat on September 06, 2022, 02:49:27 PM
I heard a new law was passed making hearing aids otc and much cheaper.

The audiologists rip you off.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Gym-Rat on September 06, 2022, 03:03:29 PM
Last Friday I saw an ENT doctor for the inner ear problems I've had since having COVID last February. My right ear drum is retracted which suggests there is still congestion/infection in the right eustachian tube. It is also the ear with the most hearing loss.

The doctor prescribed Sudafed 24 hour, which is 240 mg. I took the first one this morning. Now I feel woozy like on the verge of passing out. It could be that I am allergic to Pseudoephedrine HCI. Unless I start feeling better real soon, I will cease taking it. I couldn’t believe the hassle I went through to get Sudafed. Although no prescription is needed, you must show ID and get them from the pharmacist. Also, many pharmacies don’t sell it.

The audiologist identified my hearing loss in the right ear within a certain range as profound. The other ear is moderate to severe. I have worn hearing aids for over 6 years. They no longer work well. Oftentimes I hear better without them.

These were state of the art hearing aids which cost me nearly $7 G for the two. Back then Regence Medicare Advantage did not cover any of the cost of hearing aids. Now they do. I think up to $1,000 each. Also, I think hearing aids cost less now than they did then.

The new audiologist is going to let me sample several brands to determine which works the best for me. This is something the previous audiologist didn't offer. Not that it would have made much difference since I had no idea what to expect of them back then.

Hearing loss is incredibly isolating. I have a lot of difficulty making out what folks are saying. Rather than ask them to repeat it for me again, I started pretending I heard them and basically nod in the affirmative because yes is usually better than no. One of my best friends is so soft spoken, I cannot understand a word she's saying. So, I avoid visiting her and her boyfriend.

Hope you feel better Prime. 35 years in metal-bands, my hearing is a bit "worn".  ;)
Got a couple soft-talker friends, I just nod/smile.

Hearing aids might make things better for you, give 'em a shot..
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Primemuscle on September 06, 2022, 03:32:52 PM
Hope you feel better Prime. 35 years in metal-bands, my hearing is a bit "worn".  ;)
Got a couple soft-talker friends, I just nod/smile.

Hearing aids might make things better for you, give 'em a shot..

I currently wear hearing aids which I got 6 years ago. Hopefully, the technology has improved and some new ones will work better.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Gym-Rat on September 06, 2022, 03:45:38 PM
I currently wear hearing aids which I got 6 years ago. Hopefully, the technology has improved and some new ones will work better.

Im sure its improved. Read about some singers who lost most of their hearing (AC/DC) and with the new technology, can hear/perform, etc.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: The Scott on September 06, 2022, 03:55:36 PM
I first read this as "EMT doctor visit" and became worried.  I am glad it is not that but hearing loss is still awful.  I think Bose makes hearing aids now.  I tend to get lots of sinus infections and one of my brothers lost his hear due to massive inflammation and was placed on a large dosage of Prednisone that got him back to normal.   All the best to you sir!
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: ThisisOverload on September 06, 2022, 04:04:23 PM
You have to provide ID so they can track people buying large amounts of it to make meth.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Rambone on September 06, 2022, 04:14:08 PM
Last Friday I saw an ENT doctor for the inner ear problems I've had since having COVID last February. My right ear drum is retracted which suggests there is still congestion/infection in the right eustachian tube. It is also the ear with the most hearing loss.

The doctor prescribed Sudafed 24 hour, which is 240 mg. I took the first one this morning. Now I feel woozy like on the verge of passing out. It could be that I am allergic to Pseudoephedrine HCI. Unless I start feeling better real soon, I will cease taking it. I couldn’t believe the hassle I went through to get Sudafed. Although no prescription is needed, you must show ID and get them from the pharmacist. Also, many pharmacies don’t sell it.

The audiologist identified my hearing loss in the right ear within a certain range as profound. The other ear is moderate to severe. I have worn hearing aids for over 6 years. They no longer work well. Oftentimes I hear better without them.

These were state of the art hearing aids which cost me nearly $7 G for the two. Back then Regence Medicare Advantage did not cover any of the cost of hearing aids. Now they do. I think up to $1,000 each. Also, I think hearing aids cost less now than they did then.

The new audiologist is going to let me sample several brands to determine which works the best for me. This is something the previous audiologist didn't offer. Not that it would have made much difference since I had no idea what to expect of them back then.

Hearing loss is incredibly isolating. I have a lot of difficulty making out what folks are saying. Rather than ask them to repeat it for me again, I started pretending I heard them and basically nod in the affirmative because yes is usually better than no. One of my best friends is so soft spoken, I cannot understand a word she's saying. So, I avoid visiting her and her boyfriend.

My dad went through this for years and finally set up an appointment with Costco. It was a fairly cheap process getting a hearing aid compared to other options. Im still not sure if he can hear us, so I hope he can also become a lip-reader
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Moontrane on September 06, 2022, 06:58:17 PM
If you act your age, you’ll age faster.  When someone says something unclear, point to your ear and evince uncertainty – make them do the work so you can stay in the game.

In a different situation, I have an older relative who offers up non-sequiturs on a regular basis.  I grew frustrated at asking, “What do you mean?” and now simply ask “Context?”  I want this relative to stay in the game.

On the other hand, you might just get a great set of hearing aids.  :D
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: njflex on September 06, 2022, 07:30:56 PM
I first read this as "EMT doctor visit" and became worried.  I am glad it is not that but hearing loss is still awful.  I think Bose makes hearing aids now.  I tend to get lots of sinus infections and one of my brothers lost his hear due to massive inflammation and was placed on a large dosage of Prednisone that got him back to normal.   All the best to you sir!
I did 2 rounds prednisone ,I had profound hearing loss right ear  march 2020 following a bad head cold,never recovered got half back hearing wise, I nod lol in loud rooms if people are on that side,the punishing effect is constant tinnitus ranging from dull to extreme ringing.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Primemuscle on September 06, 2022, 08:06:27 PM
I first read this as "EMT doctor visit" and became worried.  I am glad it is not that but hearing loss is still awful.  I think Bose makes hearing aids now.  I tend to get lots of sinus infections and one of my brothers lost his hear due to massive inflammation and was placed on a large dosage of Prednisone that got him back to normal.   All the best to you sir!

Thanks for your concern. I am fine. In fact, most of the side effects from the Sudafed have subsided. I will probably follow the doctor's advice and take one each day for week. My reaction may have been because, to the best of my knowledge, I've never taken Sudafed before.

I read that the eardrum depression caused by an inflammation like a sinus infection is also treated with a steroid which is what Prednisone is. As most of us know, steroids also have side effects. The trick is to find a balance between treatments, symptoms and outcomes and make best guess decisions. If I can get improved hearing in my right ear, a little nausea is bearable.

Bose equipment... love it and hate it! I have Bose headphones for watching TV, Zoom meetings, phone conversations and listening to music. Once the Bluetooth connection is made to the Bose soundbar they are great. Making the connection using the Bose music app is another story. It seems like something different messes it up each time. Like, for no reason they will connect and then immediately disconnect. The built-in digital voice lets you know it is happing. She says, “living room disconnected” Duh! Other times they are connected according to the app but there is still no sound and like magic it will suddenly decide to play.

I like closed caption because if I miss something someone says I can read it on the screen. Never mind that it pops of seconds after the said it. And why is it some of the same programs have closed captioning and others in the series don’t? It is most annoying.

What did we do prior to smart phones? My entire life is on my phone! If it dies, I am shit out of luck... except for that everything is stored in 'the cloud' and can be recovered.

Technology. :) How does the TV know when I left the room for too long and turn itself off even if I don't pause the program?

Remember the good old days when we entertained ourselves reading books and magazines? Or, God forbid, have a conversation with another human being who is in the room with us. There was TV before cable, but not much of it, maybe three or four channels with lame sitcoms cueing you to know when to laugh with the use of laugh tracks? Remember Carol Burnett's ear tugging? Bet that one earlobe was twice the length of the other. LOL!

I am showing my ancient age. Sometimes after sitting for a while or in the morning when I first get up, I walk like the character Duane Toddleberry, played by Tim Conway on the Carol Burnett show. It takes me an hour to get from my bed to the bathroom toilet, which is only 20 feet away because I am moving in slow motion... probably not that slow, but it always reminds me of him.

Enough about me and my woes and complaints. How are you doing these days. On Getbig, you seem to be back in good form. Does this mean you are feeling better? Hope so.   
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Moontrane on September 06, 2022, 08:29:31 PM
Thanks for your concern. I am fine. In fact, most of the side effects from the Sudafed have subsided. I will probably follow the doctor's advice and take one each day for week. My reaction may have been because, to the best of my knowledge, I've never taken Sudafed before.

I read that the eardrum depression caused by an inflammation like a sinus infection is also treated with a steroid which is what Prednisone is. As most of us know, steroids also have side effects. The trick is to find a balance between treatments, symptoms and outcomes and make best guess decisions. If I can get improved hearing in my right ear, a little nausea is bearable.

Bose equipment... love it and hate it! I have Bose headphones for watching TV, Zoom meetings, phone conversations and listening to music. Once the Bluetooth connection is made to the Bose soundbar they are great. Making the connection using the Bose music app is another story. It seems like something different messes it up each time. Like, for no reason they will connect and then immediately disconnect. The built-in digital voice lets you know it is happing. She says, “living room disconnected” Duh! Other times they are connected according to the app but there is still no sound and like magic it will suddenly decide to play.

I like closed caption because if I miss something someone says I can read it on the screen. Never mind that it pops of seconds after the said it. And why is it some of the same programs have closed captioning and others in the series don’t? It is most annoying.

What did we do prior to smart phones? My entire life is on my phone! If it dies, I am shit out of luck... except for that everything is stored in 'the cloud' and can be recovered.

Technology. :) How does the TV know when I left the room for too long and turn itself off even if I don't pause the program?

Remember the good old days when we entertained ourselves reading books and magazines? Or, God forbid, have a conversation with another human being who is in the room with us. There was TV before cable, but not much of it, maybe three or four channels with lame sitcoms cueing you to know when to laugh with the use of laugh tracks? Remember Carol Burnett's ear tugging? Bet that one earlobe was twice the length of the other. LOL!

I am showing my ancient age. Sometimes after sitting for a while or in the morning when I first get up, I walk like the character Duane Toddleberry, played by Tim Conway on the Carol Burnett show. It takes me an hour to get from my bed to the bathroom toilet, which is only 20 feet away because I am moving in slow motion... probably not that slow, but it always reminds me of him.

Enough about me and my woes and complaints. How are you doing these days. On Getbig, you seem to be back in good form. Does this mean you are feeling better? Hope so.

Those were the days.

Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Tapeworm on September 06, 2022, 09:17:51 PM
My old man calls me and your posts remind me of his conversation. Old guys fall into the health trap because their interactions with doctors are more frequent and more consequential. It's understandable but unfortunate that my father seems to think about and discuss his health and healthcare almost exclusively.

You're an old man and you have to do old man shit. But do some young man stuff too so your world expands instead of shrinks. Learn German, go see your kid, and wow him with your new skills. Take up oil painting or learn an instrument. Social stuff like yoga or a book club.

Your mind is like your muscles. Use it or lose it. The one thing old dudes seem to lack is neuroplasticity, and they turn into goddamn automatons and retreat into familiarity.

Not trying to give you a hard time. Just saying you don't want what has happened to my old man to happen to you. Go take up the challenge of something you've never done before. If you die hang-gliding that'll show the fuckers they didn't know you as well as they thought they did.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Flexacon on September 06, 2022, 09:29:29 PM
My old man calls me and your posts remind me of his conversation. Old guys fall into the health trap because their interactions with doctors are more frequent and more consequential. It's understandable but unfortunate that my father seems to think about and discuss his health and healthcare almost exclusively.

You're an old man and you have to do old man shit. But do some young man stuff too so your world expands instead of shrinks. Learn German, go see your kid, and wow him with your new skills. Take up oil painting or learn an instrument. Social stuff like yoga or a book club.

Your mind is like your muscles. Use it or lose it. The one thing old dudes seem to lack is neuroplasticity, and they turn into goddamn automatons and retreat into familiarity.

Not trying to give you a hard time. Just saying you don't want what has happened to my old man to happen to you. Go take up the challenge of something you've never done before. If you die hang-gliding that'll show the fuckers they didn't know you as well as they thought they did.

He did. He started sucking dicks!
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: AbrahamG on September 07, 2022, 12:01:22 AM
He did. He started sucking dicks!

Apologies in advance to Prime but I laughed my ass off reading this. 
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Super Natural on September 07, 2022, 12:58:41 AM
Most drugs are prescribed because a hot girl with a rolling suitcase gave your doctor a free pen.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: GymnJuice on September 07, 2022, 04:55:38 AM
Have you tried to cure yourself by binging peach cobbler and injecting 500 mg of test?
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: njflex on September 07, 2022, 05:15:12 AM
ive tried sudafed it does work and has cleared sinus and my ear has responded a bit to it problem is side effects all for me can cause the ringing in that ear to get worse so my ear feels like it can hear better but tinnitus if blood pressure increases from the med it causes it to ring worse.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: joswift on September 07, 2022, 05:18:46 AM
Most drugs are prescribed because a hot girl with a rolling suitcase gave your doctor a free pen.

or a golf trip
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Marty Champions on September 07, 2022, 06:43:22 AM
Peroxide in the ear helps
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: wes on September 07, 2022, 06:47:32 AM
I did 2 rounds prednisone ,I had profound hearing loss right ear  march 2020 following a bad head cold,never recovered got half back hearing wise, I nod lol in loud rooms if people are on that side,the punishing effect is constant tinnitus ranging from dull to extreme ringing.
Wow Steve,I remember when you told me about this,but I had figured it cleared up and went away.

That sucks.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Griffith on September 07, 2022, 07:47:51 AM
Last Friday I saw an ENT doctor for the inner ear problems I've had since having COVID last February. My right ear drum is retracted which suggests there is still congestion/infection in the right eustachian tube. It is also the ear with the most hearing loss.

The doctor prescribed Sudafed 24 hour, which is 240 mg. I took the first one this morning. Now I feel woozy like on the verge of passing out. It could be that I am allergic to Pseudoephedrine HCI. Unless I start feeling better real soon, I will cease taking it. I couldn’t believe the hassle I went through to get Sudafed. Although no prescription is needed, you must show ID and get them from the pharmacist. Also, many pharmacies don’t sell it.

The audiologist identified my hearing loss in the right ear within a certain range as profound. The other ear is moderate to severe. I have worn hearing aids for over 6 years. They no longer work well. Oftentimes I hear better without them.

These were state of the art hearing aids which cost me nearly $7 G for the two. Back then Regence Medicare Advantage did not cover any of the cost of hearing aids. Now they do. I think up to $1,000 each. Also, I think hearing aids cost less now than they did then.

The new audiologist is going to let me sample several brands to determine which works the best for me. This is something the previous audiologist didn't offer. Not that it would have made much difference since I had no idea what to expect of them back then.

Hearing loss is incredibly isolating. I have a lot of difficulty making out what folks are saying. Rather than ask them to repeat it for me again, I started pretending I heard them and basically nod in the affirmative because yes is usually better than no. One of my best friends is so soft spoken, I cannot understand a word she's saying. So, I avoid visiting her and her boyfriend.

Rather split up the Sudaded dosage if you can, that is a high dosage.

60 or even 30 mg's three times a day of regular Sudafed, not the 24 hour version.

I tolerate the split up doses fine but I have tried the 240 mg 24 hour version but did not feel good on it, made me very jittery.

In my experience, Pseudo-ephedrine is the only medication which works for blocked eustachian tubes/ears and sinus issues.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Primemuscle on September 07, 2022, 04:02:08 PM
My old man calls me and your posts remind me of his conversation. Old guys fall into the health trap because their interactions with doctors are more frequent and more consequential. It's understandable but unfortunate that my father seems to think about and discuss his health and healthcare almost exclusively.

You're an old man and you have to do old man shit. But do some young man stuff too so your world expands instead of shrinks. Learn German, go see your kid, and wow him with your new skills. Take up oil painting or learn an instrument. Social stuff like yoga or a book club.

Your mind is like your muscles. Use it or lose it. The one thing old dudes seem to lack is neuroplasticity, and they turn into goddamn automatons and retreat into familiarity.

Not trying to give you a hard time. Just saying you don't want what has happened to my old man to happen to you. Go take up the challenge of something you've never done before. If you die hang-gliding that'll show the fuckers they didn't know you as well as they thought they did.

Very good advice. I am surrounded by young people (family) who have an enormous influence how I think, dress, and feel. Despite being deaf, dumb, and blind, I'm still a 'kid' at heart. Whenever I look in the mirror, I'm shocked by that old fart who is looking back at me. :D

The good folks on Getbig also keep me on my toes.

Day 2 taking a Sudafed. This may be the last time because that shit makes me feel like shit, and I hate it when I feel crappy.

On average, I see my primary care physician once a year for an annual wellness check. It's also once a year that I see the Urologist who prescribes Testosterone Cypionate which I inject weekly. My teeth get cleaned twice a year which is all they ever need. Only reason I had an appointment with an ENT was because (I believe) COVID caused an inner ear infection. This year I have seen doctors more than most because I had cataract surgery, which is pretty much one and done, unless I live another 78 years.

Maybe next year for the Germany visit. Have you ever tried to learn to speak German? I speak a little French, but German throws me a curveball.
     
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Primemuscle on September 07, 2022, 04:09:08 PM
Rather split up the Sudaded dosage if you can, that is a high dosage.

60 or even 30 mg's three times a day of regular Sudafed, not the 24 hour version.

I tolerate the split up doses fine but I have tried the 240 mg 24 hour version but did not feel good on it, made me very jittery.

In my experience, Pseudo-ephedrine is the only medication which works for blocked eustachian tubes/ears and sinus issues.

Thanks, I'll give this a try. The doctor suggested 120 mg which I assumed he meant for me to take twice a day. Maybe he meant 120 mg in total per day. The 24 hour one is supposedly time released. My reaction to it says otherwise. It may be that my system breaks it down faster. I was surprised that I had no difficulty falling asleep last night which suggests it had worn off.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Irongrip400 on September 07, 2022, 04:16:03 PM
I’m middle aged and have 30% hearing loss, most likely from being around heavy equipment and not using ear protection. I’m taller than most so I constantly find myself leaning down when someone talks to me and there’s outside noises. I’m teetering on actually getting a small hearing aid.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Walter Sobchak on September 07, 2022, 04:40:12 PM
Last Friday I saw an ENT doctor for the inner ear problems I've had since having COVID last February. My right ear drum is retracted which suggests there is still congestion/infection in the right eustachian tube. It is also the ear with the most hearing loss.

The doctor prescribed Sudafed 24 hour, which is 240 mg. I took the first one this morning. Now I feel woozy like on the verge of passing out. It could be that I am allergic to Pseudoephedrine HCI. Unless I start feeling better real soon, I will cease taking it. I couldn’t believe the hassle I went through to get Sudafed. Although no prescription is needed, you must show ID and get them from the pharmacist. Also, many pharmacies don’t sell it.

The audiologist identified my hearing loss in the right ear within a certain range as profound. The other ear is moderate to severe. I have worn hearing aids for over 6 years. They no longer work well. Oftentimes I hear better without them.

These were state of the art hearing aids which cost me nearly $7 G for the two. Back then Regence Medicare Advantage did not cover any of the cost of hearing aids. Now they do. I think up to $1,000 each. Also, I think hearing aids cost less now than they did then.

The new audiologist is going to let me sample several brands to determine which works the best for me. This is something the previous audiologist didn't offer. Not that it would have made much difference since I had no idea what to expect of them back then.

Hearing loss is incredibly isolating. I have a lot of difficulty making out what folks are saying. Rather than ask them to repeat it for me again, I started pretending I heard them and basically nod in the affirmative because yes is usually better than no. One of my best friends is so soft spoken, I cannot understand a word she's saying. So, I avoid visiting her and her boyfriend.

I’m not reading all this shit, but if he is dying or has a terminal disease can someone just respond “Yes” down below.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Marty Champions on September 07, 2022, 05:37:33 PM
Olive oil

Peroxide in ear works
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Flexacon on September 07, 2022, 06:47:05 PM
There are devices that in real time auto translate speech from one language into text in another. It's quite popular in Japan for Japanese to English translation. Surely something like that could help a deaf person who can't lip read.

Might even work through an app and smartphone now.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: wes on September 07, 2022, 07:19:03 PM
Olive oil

Peroxide in ear works
Go  eat a bucket of lead paint chips Jethro.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Lartinos on September 07, 2022, 07:50:45 PM
If you got the jab it could be causing you viral issues.

Colloidal silver is decent for sore throats and ear aches.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Phantom Spunker on September 07, 2022, 10:58:26 PM
Pseudoephedrine works great for me. I blew my eardrum up a few too many times and it caused major damage and had to be rebuilt. No real hearing loss now, but tinnitus is a constant annoyance. I've woken up early from it today, along with a headache, so I'm now browsing Getbig in a rage, lol.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: deadz on September 08, 2022, 11:19:19 AM
This Forum is quite geriatric.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: keanu on September 10, 2022, 07:19:42 AM
Thanks for your concern. I am fine. In fact, most of the side effects from the Sudafed have subsided. I will probably follow the doctor's advice and take one each day for week. My reaction may have been because, to the best of my knowledge, I've never taken Sudafed before.

I read that the eardrum depression caused by an inflammation like a sinus infection is also treated with a steroid which is what Prednisone is. As most of us know, steroids also have side effects. The trick is to find a balance between treatments, symptoms and outcomes and make best guess decisions. If I can get improved hearing in my right ear, a little nausea is bearable.

Bose equipment... love it and hate it! I have Bose headphones for watching TV, Zoom meetings, phone conversations and listening to music. Once the Bluetooth connection is made to the Bose soundbar they are great. Making the connection using the Bose music app is another story. It seems like something different messes it up each time. Like, for no reason they will connect and then immediately disconnect. The built-in digital voice lets you know it is happing. She says, “living room disconnected” Duh! Other times they are connected according to the app but there is still no sound and like magic it will suddenly decide to play.

I like closed caption because if I miss something someone says I can read it on the screen. Never mind that it pops of seconds after the said it. And why is it some of the same programs have closed captioning and others in the series don’t? It is most annoying.

What did we do prior to smart phones? My entire life is on my phone! If it dies, I am shit out of luck... except for that everything is stored in 'the cloud' and can be recovered.

Technology. :) How does the TV know when I left the room for too long and turn itself off even if I don't pause the program?

Remember the good old days when we entertained ourselves reading books and magazines? Or, God forbid, have a conversation with another human being who is in the room with us. There was TV before cable, but not much of it, maybe three or four channels with lame sitcoms cueing you to know when to laugh with the use of laugh tracks? Remember Carol Burnett's ear tugging? Bet that one earlobe was twice the length of the other. LOL!

I am showing my ancient age. Sometimes after sitting for a while or in the morning when I first get up, I walk like the character Duane Toddleberry, played by Tim Conway on the Carol Burnett show. It takes me an hour to get from my bed to the bathroom toilet, which is only 20 feet away because I am moving in slow motion... probably not that slow, but it always reminds me of him.

Enough about me and my woes and complaints. How are you doing these days. On Getbig, you seem to be back in good form. Does this mean you are feeling better? Hope so.

Most of us will get old, but only some of us will enjoy the journey. You seem like a very well balanced person. I'm not quite your age, but I feel father time. I wake up and the back especially feels stiff, several yoga poses are required. Once in a while my back pops in relief. This is the first year ever where I had to plan a diet, and cut out some junk and processed foods. Not because I am fat, more for mood, mental clarity and energy. Seeing old friends and catching up is my favorite thing to do these days. If I could be 20 again with my knowledge now my life could have been much better, but you live and learn. The most important thing I learned from Getbig is not to open any e-mails from Matt , especially those with the word ropes in the title.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: funk51 on September 10, 2022, 08:59:39 AM
My old man calls me and your posts remind me of his conversation. Old guys fall into the health trap because their interactions with doctors are more frequent and more consequential. It's understandable but unfortunate that my father seems to think about and discuss his health and healthcare almost exclusively.

You're an old man and you have to do old man shit. But do some young man stuff too so your world expands instead of shrinks. Learn German, go see your kid, and wow him with your new skills. Take up oil painting or learn an instrument. Social stuff like yoga or a book club.

Your mind is like your muscles. Use it or lose it. The one thing old dudes seem to lack is neuroplasticity, and they turn into goddamn automatons and retreat into familiarity.

Not trying to give you a hard time. Just saying you don't want what has happened to my old man to happen to you. Go take up the challenge of something you've never done before. If you die hang-gliding that'll show the fuckers they didn't know you as well as they thought they did.
  :o :o :o :o :o :o    why should he learn German, do you know something we don't. are they making a comeback. can we expect another Reich................... ........................ ........................ ......... :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o The history of the nation-state known as the German Reich is commonly divided into three periods: German Empire (1871–1918) Weimar Republic (1918–1933) Nazi Germany (1933–1945)
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Tapeworm on September 10, 2022, 09:22:04 AM
Prime's son lives in Germany, Herr Emoji.

Chill. It'll never erwache. That's kaput. So will the country as a whole be, imo, if the EU bleeds it for another decade before fizzling out. They'll come through ok if Italy defaults and the union dissolves, or they cut loose the Eastern and Mediterranean nations instead of continuing to carry the Slavs and the Olive peoples.

I'm an economic idiot tho. What's your take?

Very good advice. I am surrounded by young people (family) who have an enormous influence how I think, dress, and feel. Despite being deaf, dumb, and blind, I'm still a 'kid' at heart. Whenever I look in the mirror, I'm shocked by that old fart who is looking back at me. :D

The good folks on Getbig also keep me on my toes.

Day 2 taking a Sudafed. This may be the last time because that shit makes me feel like shit, and I hate it when I feel crappy.

On average, I see my primary care physician once a year for an annual wellness check. It's also once a year that I see the Urologist who prescribes Testosterone Cypionate which I inject weekly. My teeth get cleaned twice a year which is all they ever need. Only reason I had an appointment with an ENT was because (I believe) COVID caused an inner ear infection. This year I have seen doctors more than most because I had cataract surgery, which is pretty much one and done, unless I live another 78 years.

Maybe next year for the Germany visit. Have you ever tried to learn to speak German? I speak a little French, but German throws me a curveball.
     

German, no. My Spanish is pretty rusty, as is my Japanese. I can fake it through basic interactions with childlike Italian and Flemish, so long as my coversational victim is willing to indulge an idiot.

My Jap was independently learned. I got ok enough conversationally to get laid over there, and I used to know several hundred of the most common characters. Been considering a run at Mandarin. The tonality will be a challenge for my honky tongue, but who's kidding who about whether it's a worthwhile thing in Australia now and into the future.

I seem to pick up languages ok, but my only real gift is the ability to work hard at it. Multiple daily exposure in tolerability short blocks. Foundational rote mixed with adult level programs to see how much you can tune into. Pretty much what you'd expect to be required.

Unusual stuff I've done is foster my inner dialogue in the new language, even if it's babble, rather than permit myself to think in English. You'll catch yourself naturally inserting words and phrases into your thinking without conceptual detriment, so run with that instead of practicing translation while doing all your understanding in English. Mumble conversations, even if it gets you strange looks. Actual verbalization is better than doing it all in your head. And get schizophrenic. Give yourself a play name and dissociate from your entrenched personality when thinking in your new language.

Online resources abound. It's not like the old days.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Primemuscle on September 10, 2022, 09:30:48 AM
I’m middle aged and have 30% hearing loss, most likely from being around heavy equipment and not using ear protection. I’m taller than most so I constantly find myself leaning down when someone talks to me and there’s outside noises. I’m teetering on actually getting a small hearing aid.

If you haven't already done this, have your hearing tested/assessed by an audiologist to determine what type hearing aid would work best for you. I wish I could use in the ear, invisible hearing aids, but my hearing loss is too great for that type to work. I must wear over-the-ear hearing aids and they also have to be background noise canceling/reducing because background noise diminishes my ability to hear the person talking to me accurately.

I get the new hearing aids on the 14th of this month. I'm hopeful they are an improvement over the ones I currently have. I was reading about them yesterday and they do have features my old ones don't, so we will see.

Once when I was in the waiting room at Kaiser because my sister had an appointment there, there was this 'old' fellow who carried a megaphone which he held with the small end at his ear. Like a megaphone in reverse. It looked very odd. I guess it worked because he used it whenever someone spoke to him.   
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Primemuscle on September 10, 2022, 09:32:57 AM
I’m not reading all this shit, but if he is dying or has a terminal disease can someone just respond “Yes” down below.

No (I am not dying of a terminal disease). 
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Walter Sobchak on September 10, 2022, 09:38:38 AM
No (I am not dying of a terminal disease).

Well don’t die yet you soggy old fuck, even with as much shit as we give you, you’re still a Getbigger.

👍🏻
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Primemuscle on September 10, 2022, 09:39:23 AM
Olive oil

Peroxide in ear works

You can be so funny sometimes. Warm olive oil and peroxide help remove ear wax. I don't have a problem with ear wax build up. Ear wax has nothing to do with my hearing loss so neither of those suggestions would help me to hear better. The peroxide might bleach the inside of my ears and the olive oil would make them oily... and that is all these home remedies would do in my case. 
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Tapeworm on September 10, 2022, 09:43:01 AM
I was in the waiting room at Kaiser

Hmmm, sounds suspiciously German.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Primemuscle on September 10, 2022, 09:49:30 AM
There are devices that in real time auto translate speech from one language into text in another. It's quite popular in Japan for Japanese to English translation. Surely something like that could help a deaf person who can't lip read.

Might even work through an app and smartphone now.

Hmmm, very interesting idea. I do not believe anyone has ever spoken to me in Japanese. Does this translate English into English text? I am fond of closed captioning when watching television if the spoken language is English and the text is English as well. The only issue I have with it is people talk faster than the text can display so it is out of sync, plus while you are busy reading the text, you aren't watching the visuals. Might just as well read a book. It would be less confusing. I was watching a movie last night where the spoken language was Spanish. Who knew Spanish people talk at such rapid speed?

Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Primemuscle on September 10, 2022, 09:51:09 AM
Hmmm, sounds suspiciously German.

 ;D Kaiser Permanente
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Primemuscle on September 10, 2022, 09:58:26 AM
Well don’t die yet you soggy old fuck, even with as much shit as we give you, you’re still a Getbigger.

👍🏻

Thankyou Walter. I plan to live longer than all Getbiggers, just to annoy them. I read somewhere that the older we get, the more annoying we become... so watch out. I will someday be a force to reckoned with ;)
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: SweetDaddySiki on September 10, 2022, 10:07:38 AM
,
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Walter Sobchak on September 10, 2022, 10:10:29 AM
Thankyou Walter. I plan to live longer than all Getbiggers, just to annoy them. I read somewhere that the older we get, the more annoying we become... so watch out. I will someday be a force to reckoned with ;)

Die in a fire, you soggy old queer.

🤣
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Tapeworm on September 10, 2022, 10:40:15 AM
Hmmm, very interesting idea. I do not believe anyone has ever spoken to me in Japanese. Does this translate English into English text? I am fond of closed captioning when watching television if the spoken language is English and the text is English as well. The only issue I have with it is people talk faster than the text can display so it is out of sync, plus while you are busy reading the text, you aren't watching the visuals. Might just as well read a book. It would be less confusing. I was watching a movie last night where the spoken language was Spanish. Who knew Spanish people talk at such rapid speed?

Yokunai deyo! Oyame, viejo. This device is bad news. Directions to the john will translate. I doubt Goethe would. Know what I mean?

I once read Cervantes' Don Quixote. It was hard, and I battled but every so often I'd catch a nice turn of phrase which you could translate the meaning of but the beauty wouldn't come across.

People writing haikus in English is pure facepalm. Japanese written characters have multiple meanings and multiple pronunciations, so their poems pack all sorts of connotations which English can't deliver. I never got good enough to really appreciate haiku but I know that some stuff just doesn't translate, and it's gonna be all the best stuff.

Technology will never replace the noble reason and divine apprehension of this quintessence of dust.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: deadz on September 10, 2022, 12:59:04 PM
Die in a fire, you soggy old queer.

🤣
LOL Another fan! ;D
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Fortress on September 10, 2022, 01:42:10 PM
You’ve had a man drain his balls down your throat.

Sick clown.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: wes on October 25, 2022, 12:56:31 PM
Last Friday I saw an ENT doctor for the inner ear problems I've had since having COVID last February. My right ear drum is retracted which suggests there is still congestion/infection in the right eustachian tube. It is also the ear with the most hearing loss.

The doctor prescribed Sudafed 24 hour, which is 240 mg. I took the first one this morning. Now I feel woozy like on the verge of passing out. It could be that I am allergic to Pseudoephedrine HCI. Unless I start feeling better real soon, I will cease taking it. I couldn’t believe the hassle I went through to get Sudafed. Although no prescription is needed, you must show ID and get them from the pharmacist. Also, many pharmacies don’t sell it.

The audiologist identified my hearing loss in the right ear within a certain range as profound. The other ear is moderate to severe. I have worn hearing aids for over 6 years. They no longer work well. Oftentimes I hear better without them.

These were state of the art hearing aids which cost me nearly $7 G for the two. Back then Regence Medicare Advantage did not cover any of the cost of hearing aids. Now they do. I think up to $1,000 each. Also, I think hearing aids cost less now than they did then.

The new audiologist is going to let me sample several brands to determine which works the best for me. This is something the previous audiologist didn't offer. Not that it would have made much difference since I had no idea what to expect of them back then.

Hearing loss is incredibly isolating. I have a lot of difficulty making out what folks are saying. Rather than ask them to repeat it for me again, I started pretending I heard them and basically nod in the affirmative because yes is usually better than no. One of my best friends is so soft spoken, I cannot understand a word she's saying. So, I avoid visiting her and her boyfriend.

I sincerely hope things work out for you Jay....all the best buddy.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: wes on October 25, 2022, 12:57:56 PM
Most of us will get old, but only some of us will enjoy the journey. You seem like a very well balanced person. I'm not quite your age, but I feel father time. I wake up and the back especially feels stiff, several yoga poses are required. Once in a while my back pops in relief. This is the first year ever where I had to plan a diet, and cut out some junk and processed foods. Not because I am fat, more for mood, mental clarity and energy. Seeing old friends and catching up is my favorite thing to do these days. If I could be 20 again with my knowledge now my life could have been much better, but you live and learn. The most important thing I learned from Getbig is not to open any e-mails from Matt , especially those with the word ropes in the title.
;D
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: IroNat on October 25, 2022, 02:38:34 PM
Most of us will get old, but only some of us will enjoy the journey. You seem like a very well balanced person. I'm not quite your age, but I feel father time. I wake up and the back especially feels stiff, several yoga poses are required. Once in a while my back pops in relief. This is the first year ever where I had to plan a diet, and cut out some junk and processed foods. Not because I am fat, more for mood, mental clarity and energy. Seeing old friends and catching up is my favorite thing to do these days. If I could be 20 again with my knowledge now my life could have been much better, but you live and learn. The most important thing I learned from Getbig is not to open any e-mails from Matt , especially those with the word ropes in the title.

(https://giffiles.alphacoders.com/234/23465.gif)
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: The Scott on October 25, 2022, 03:09:17 PM
In one of my "special" classes all of us were asked to choose a handicap if we had such a choice.  Pretty much everyone chose deafness.  Considering being blind is pretty awful and being confined to a wheelchair is in some ways worse, one can understand deafness being the #1 kneejerk response.

But having nearly  lost all hearing for a day or two due to infection I can say that I do not want to be deaf. Nor blind.  Or anything really and I am working daily to be totally free of my braces and crutches.

Having said that, this is NOT about me but about Prime and I mention that only to put it in perspective.  Reality is rough, I know.   Get better, brother.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Marty Champions on October 25, 2022, 03:52:24 PM
You need to remove meat from your diet for 2 or 3 months and get plenty of exercise Then the infection may subside. Would not hurt a thing to try
Last Friday I saw an ENT doctor for the inner ear problems I've had since having COVID last February. My right ear drum is retracted which suggests there is still congestion/infection in the right eustachian tube. It is also the ear with the most hearing loss.

The doctor prescribed Sudafed 24 hour, which is 240 mg. I took the first one this morning. Now I feel woozy like on the verge of passing out. It could be that I am allergic to Pseudoephedrine HCI. Unless I start feeling better real soon, I will cease taking it. I couldn’t believe the hassle I went through to get Sudafed. Although no prescription is needed, you must show ID and get them from the pharmacist. Also, many pharmacies don’t sell it.

The audiologist identified my hearing loss in the right ear within a certain range as profound. The other ear is moderate to severe. I have worn hearing aids for over 6 years. They no longer work well. Oftentimes I hear better without them.

These were state of the art hearing aids which cost me nearly $7 G for the two. Back then Regence Medicare Advantage did not cover any of the cost of hearing aids. Now they do. I think up to $1,000 each. Also, I think hearing aids cost less now than they did then.

The new audiologist is going to let me sample several brands to determine which works the best for me. This is something the previous audiologist didn't offer. Not that it would have made much difference since I had no idea what to expect of them back then.

Hearing loss is incredibly isolating. I have a lot of difficulty making out what folks are saying. Rather than ask them to repeat it for me again, I started pretending I heard them and basically nod in the affirmative because yes is usually better than no. One of my best friends is so soft spoken, I cannot understand a word she's saying. So, I avoid visiting her and her boyfriend.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: SweetDaddySiki on October 25, 2022, 05:14:59 PM
.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: bhank on October 25, 2022, 06:05:19 PM
In one of my "special" classes all of us were asked to choose a handicap if we had such a choice.  Pretty much everyone chose deafness.  Considering being blind is pretty awful and being confined to a wheelchair is in some ways worse, one can understand deafness being the #1 kneejerk response.

But having nearly  lost all hearing for a day or two due to infection I can say that I do not want to be deaf. Nor blind.  Or anything really and I am working daily to be totally free of my braces and crutches.

Having said that, this is NOT about me but about Prime and I mention that only to put it in perspective.  Reality is rough, I know.   Get better, brother.

Did you ride a recumbant bike today? Did you swim with a kickboard? Did you walk in a pool? What work are you doing?
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: The Scott on October 25, 2022, 07:04:00 PM
Did you ride a recumbant bike today? Did you swim with a kickboard? Did you walk in a pool? What work are you doing?

I go to physical therapy daily as outlined by multiple physicians.  I cannot swim.  Never have been able to. I will do what is required of me by doctors. Thank you for asking.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: IroNat on October 26, 2022, 11:22:58 AM
Did you ride a recumbant bike today? Did you swim with a kickboard? Did you walk in a pool? What work are you doing?

Bhanky,

Did you get a recumbent bike for your birthday?
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Primemuscle on October 30, 2022, 12:52:35 PM
I am getting my first pair of hearing aids next months.
A little scared to be honest. Curious where are actually people buying hearing aid supplies  (https://audiologyisland.com/online-shop/)- online or in some special shop?
Is there a point to order everything together with the first hearing aids or is there a chance that I gonna like them and need to make an exchange at the end?

Not sure how buying something that is fine tuned to work with you particular hearing issues can be purchased online. Most of the cost of the hearing aids was paid for via my health insurance. Mine came with a 90 day return option if for any reason I didn't like them or they didn't work as expected at no cost to me. These hearing aids are probably one of the most expensive types available. My co-pay was $1,000 each. Without insurance they would have run close to $7,000 for the pair. 
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: falco on October 30, 2022, 02:48:38 PM
Wish you a good recovery Prime.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: IroNat on October 31, 2022, 04:14:40 AM
The ripoff on hearing aids is well-known.

The markup commission is tremendous.

Up to now, there was really no option to getting ripped off by an audiologist.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: stuntmovie on October 31, 2022, 12:42:14 PM
I haven't had time yet to read all of the above yet but last month I drove my brother to the local VA hospital to pick up his hearing aid set and attended a 20 minute session on how to turn them on and off and how to clean them when necessary and a lot of other basic stuff.

The only question I asked was, "How much do these cost?"

The response was "$8,000+" if purchased outside of the VA.

But that included both ears, so "What the hell!".

Anyone on this board have $8,000  ear-plugs with sound enhancement?


Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Primemuscle on October 31, 2022, 07:22:43 PM
The ripoff on hearing aids is well-known.

The markup commission is tremendous.

Up to now, there was really no option to getting ripped off by an audiologist.

Had I paid the full advertised price buying them off the Internet with no Audiologist involved, they would have cost me more than three times what the Regence MedAvantage copay for them is. Regence MedAdvantage covers only Truhearing brand hearing aids, and you must purchase them from an in-network audiologist.

My hearing loss is 'severe' in one ear and 'profound' in the other. Oddly enough profound is worse than severe. OTC hearing aids are okay for folks with mild to moderate hearing loss. My state-of-the-art hearing aids are almost infinitely adjustable, but many of those adjustments can only be performed by an audiologist. There are also 6 different built-in programs which I can adjust using my smart phone.

The bottom line is when, it comes to health issues, shopping around for the best/cheapest deal is not advisable, IMO. This is an area where the saying you get what you paid for, is a valid concept.
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: Primemuscle on October 31, 2022, 07:29:43 PM
I haven't had time yet to read all of the above yet but last month I drove my brother to the local VA hospital to pick up his hearing aid set and attended a 20 minute session on how to turn them on and off and how to clean them when necessary and a lot of other basic stuff.

The only question I asked was, "How much do these cost?"

The response was "$8,000+" if purchased outside of the VA.

But that included both ears, so "What the hell!".

Anyone on this board have $8,000  ear-plugs with sound enhancement?

The VA hearing aids are among the most advanced you can get. My son-in-law has service-related hearing loss. Every couple of years the VA offers him new hearing aids at no charge.

I wore my previous hearing aids for 6 years. When I got them, they were the most advanced available. Hearing aid technology changes much faster than that. The difference between the ones I have now verses my old ones is unbelievable. 
Title: Re: ENT doctor visit
Post by: illuminati on November 01, 2022, 12:17:04 AM
CAN EVERYONE POSTING SPEAK UP - I CANT HEAR YOU

🤣😂🤣😂🤣  👊🏻