Pattaya’s first complete “Hearing Center”

She explained that the ear is a very important organ for hearing and balance. Hearing loss causes problems with both loudness and sound distortion. The ear also is an organ that helps us stay erect when standing, know where we are in relation to gravity, and helps us walk, run, and move without falling.

Although hearing loss and dizziness can be symptoms of inner ear disorders, Dr. Suchitra noted that many times it could be caused by other disorders, such as high blood pressure, hyperactive cholesterolemia, anemia, reaction to some drugs, and other problems like noise. She also said that hearing problems in children can be very damaging because they do not get the full benefit of language learning experiences. Since there are so many different causes of hearing loss, diagnosis is not simple and may require several different tests.

She explained that vertigo is the sudden sensation you are unsteady or that your surroundings are moving. You may feel like you are spinning around on a merry-go-round or that your head is spinning inside. In the first case, the sufferer feels that their body or the environment is spinning. Dizziness characterized by weakness and dull headedness is commonly caused by low blood sugar or low blood pressure. One of the most common disorders is dizziness caused by sudden movements of the head.

Because there are so many different causes, diagnosis has to consider many factors including the patient’s history of vertigo – the types, onset, and duration and the results of a physical examination. Dr. Suchitra described the special diagnostic methods and equipment available. A hearing evaluation takes into consideration audiometry (for hearing ability), tympanometry and acoustic reflex for middle ear function, and Bekesy automatic audiometry. A vestibular evaluation uses posturography, caloric test, positioning test, and VNG (eye movement) test. Another test is the physiology test using a brainstem electrical response Audiometer.

Dr. Suchitra also commented on hearing loss caused by too much noise noting the different range of decibels that can be sustained for a period of time without damage. For the younger generation she emphasized that using an I-pod and other similar devices in loud areas is dangerous because increasing the volume above 85 decibels the listener will end up damaging the ear and result in serious hearing problems. Dr. Suchitra concluded her talk by answering many questions from the audience of Pattaya expats.

Professor Dr. Suchitra Prasansuk, MD, is from Bangkok Hospital Pattaya. Dr. Suchitra received her medical degree from Mahidol University in 1964 and has subsequently studied in Austria, London, and the USA. She also has many years of experience in diagnosing and treating hearing loss, vertigo, and tinnitus (ringing in the ear).

For more information or consultation, call 038.259.999 or E-mail suchitra@bph.co.th or visit the hospital website at www.bangkokpattayahospital.com