Presbycusis or gradual hearing loss - as it’s commonly referred to as - that takes place as one ages is a common condition affecting roughly one-third of Americans ages 60 and older and one-half of those age 85 and older.

As people get older and time passes, the wear and tear on the ears from noise contributes to hearing loss by damaging a part of the inner ear called the cochlea. Heredity and exposure to loud noises (noise pollution) and are the two main contributing factors to hearing loss. Other factors can also obstruct the function of the ears as well such as earwax blockage, which blocks the ear canal and prevents conduction of sound waves.

Signs and symptoms of hearing loss may include:

- Unusually loud speech

- Irrelevant comments

- Muffled sounds

- Avoidance of some social settings

- Difficulty understanding words

- Having the need to raise the volume of the television or radio

- Withdrawal from conversations

Damage to the cochlea is the reason why most cases of hearing loss occur. Sometimes, tiny hairs in the cochlea may become bent or even break, which causes nerve cells to degenerate. When this happens, electrical signals aren't transmitted as efficiently, and the result is hearing loss.

Hearing loss can also occur from an ear infection and abnormal bone growths or tumors of the outer or middle ear as well as a ruptured eardrum.

Following the regimen outlined below can help treat & prevent hearing loss safely & naturally:

Fresh pineapple should be eaten frequently to reduce inflammation. The diet should also include plenty of kelp, garlic, & sea vegetables.

Consumption of alcohol and sugars should be limited as they encourage yeast growth. Chocolate, sodium & caffeine should also be limited or eliminated as well.

In cases where earwax buildup is obstructing hearing, clean or irrigate the ears using either a solution of 1 part vinegar to 1 part warm water or a few drops of hydrogen peroxide. Using an eyedropper, put a few drops in the ear, allow to settle and then drain. Do this 3 times daily.

Liquid garlic extract can be used to soothe inflammation and combat infection. Use 2 to 4 drops in the affected ear.

A quick and easy way to tell if you have an ear infection is to pull on your lobe when it hurts. If the pain worsens, it’s probably an ear infection. If it doesn’t, chances are it’s a dental problem.

Supplementing with the following may also be beneficial:

Coenzyme Q10 (30 mg daily) - Powerful antioxidant that plays a crucial role in the effectiveness of the immune system and circulation to the ears.

Colloidal Silver (take as directed on label) - Superb antiviral agent that can also be used as ear drops for infection or inflammation.

Magnesium (1,500 mg daily) - Shields against hair cell damage in the inner ear.

Potassium (99 mg daily) - Important for a healthy nervous system and transmission of nerve impulses.

Vitamin C with bioflavonoids (3,000 - 6,000 mg daily) - Needed for proper immune function and to aid in the prevention of ear infections.

Bayberry, hawthorn, goldenseal, burdock and myrrh gum are herbs that purify the blood and counteract infection.

Echinacea - Aids equilibrium and reduces dizziness.

* Important notes: It is recommended that you seek the advice of a qualified healthcare practitioner prior to using any alternative therapies. The recommended doses are for those over age 18 unless otherwise stated. Always check herb and vitamin use with your child’s health care practitioner prior to administering them.

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