Jammu, March 7:
In a significant move to combat the rising cases of hearing impairment, AIIMS Jammu marked World Hearing Day today with a massive awareness drive at its OPD Block. Led by top medical experts, the initiative aimed to sensitize the public on ear health, the dangers of modern lifestyle habits, and the life-changing medical interventions now available at the institute.
The program was held under the vision of Prof. (Dr.) D.N. Sharma, Executive Director & CEO, and Prof. (Dr.) Meeta Gupta, Dean (Academics), reinforcing AIIMS Jammu’s mission to provide world-class ENT care to the region.
he “Golden Hour” of Hearing: Early Detection
The Department of Otorhinolaryngology (ENT) emphasized that hearing loss is often a “silent” crisis. A key highlight of the event was the Newborn Hearing Screening Programme.
“Detecting hearing impairment at birth is the difference between a child leading a normal life or facing lifelong developmental delays,” experts noted.
Early intervention ensures that children reach their speech, language, and social milestones on time, preventing the isolation often associated with deafness.
Medical Alerts: When to Rush to the Doctor
The medical team, including Dr. Darwin Kaushal and Dr. Amardeep Singh, issued a stern warning regarding Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSNHL).
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The Emergency: Sudden hearing loss is a medical emergency.
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The Window: Immediate treatment significantly increases the chances of full recovery.
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The Advice: Never ignore a sudden “pop” or drop in hearing levels.
Additionally, the institute showcased its success in Cochlear Implant surgeries, a revolutionary procedure that restores sound for both children born with profound hearing loss and adults who have lost their hearing later in life.
Dos and Don’ts: Protecting Your Ears
In an era of constant connectivity, the ENT department shared a vital checklist for the public to prevent permanent ear damage:
The “Always” List
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Nasal Hygiene: Keep nasal passages clear to prevent middle ear infections (CSOM/ASOM).
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Outer Cleaning Only: Clean only the outer ear gently; the ear is self-cleaning.
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Hydration & Diet: Ensure children stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet for overall ENT health.
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Regular Check-ups: Prioritize hearing tests as part of annual health screenings.
The “Never” List
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Sharp Objects: Never insert earbuds, pins, or keys into the ear canal.
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The 60/60 Rule: Avoid excessive use of earphones and prolonged mobile phone usage.
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DIY Wax Removal: Stop attempting home-based earwax removal, which can puncture the eardrum.
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Junk Food: Limit frequent consumption of junk food, which can aggravate certain ENT issues.
A Future Without Preventable Deafness
As the program concluded, AIIMS Jammu reiterated its commitment to comprehensive care. With advanced diagnostic tools and a team of dedicated audiologists and surgeons, the institute is positioned as a pillar of hope for those suffering from hearing disorders.
“Hearing is fundamental to communication and social integration,” the team stated. “On this World Hearing Day, our message is simple: Listen for life. Don’t let preventable hearing loss silence your future.“
