The Intersection of Brain Health and Audiology: A Comprehensive Guide

By: Mapula Mokwena (clinical audiologist)   Understanding Brain Health The brain is the control centre of the human body, responsible for thought processes, information processing, and the many functions that keep us alive and well. But what does it mean to have ‘healthy’ brain function, and why is it important in the context of audiology? […]

Otosclerosis

By Mapula Mokwena (Clinical audiologist) What is Otosclerosis? Otosclerosis is an abnormal bony growth in the middle ear that causes hearing loss. Causes People who have otosclerosis have an abnormal extension of sponge-like bone that extends into the middle ear cavity. This growth hinders the bones’ ability to vibrate in response to sound waves. These […]

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo

By Mapula Mokwena, Clinical Audiologist What is BPPV?  Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is the most common inner ear problem and cause of vertigo (vertigo is a false of spinning). It is more common in older people.  Each word describes the condition:  Benign- means it is not life-threatening even though the symptoms can be very […]

Unraveling the Mystery of Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss

Hearing is a precious sense that connects us to the world around us. We rely on it for communication, music, and so much more. Imagine waking up one day to find that the sounds you once took for granted have diminished or even disappeared entirely. This is the harsh reality of sudden sensorineural hearing loss […]

Understanding Vestibular Decompensation

Vestibular Decompensation is the reversal of the brain’s primary compensatory mechanism, which was previously used to address inner ear or vestibular system dysfunction. People with vestibular hypofunction frequently experience episodes of dizziness, vertigo, and imbalance after a few days of bed rest due to vestibular decompensation. Some individuals are aware that they had a vestibular […]

BPPV Prevention strategies

BPPV Prevention strategies By:  Mapula Mokwena (Clinical Audiologist) Daily physical exercise: exercise can be an essential component of BPPV prevention. Regular physical activity, especially exercises that focus on balance and strengthening the vestibular system, can help reduce the risk of developing BPPV. BPPV can sometimes occur after a fall or head injury. Engaging in exercises […]

LISTENING FATIGUE

LISTENING FATIGUE By Mapula Mokwena (Clinical Audiologist) We all need to listen, but when it comes to sound, too much of a good thing can cause listening fatigue. This is a condition that can leave you feeling drained and unable to focus. What is Listening Fatigue? Listening fatigue occurs when you are exposed to excessive […]

IS THERE A CONNECTION BETWEEN COVID-19 “BRAIN FOG” SYMPTOMS AND CAPD?

IS THERE A CONNECTION BETWEEN COVID-19 “BRAIN FOG” SYMPTOMS AND CAPD? By Mapula Mokwena (Clinical Audiologist) The COVID-19 pandemic was like no other seen in over a century. After-effects of the virus were initially thought to be short-term (2-6 weeks) However, as time went on, this sub-group of survivors continued to have serious medical issues […]