A tear in the oval or round windows separating the middle ear from the inner ear allowing perilymph to drain into the middle ear. This can cause hearing and balance problems sometimes similar to Meniere’s disease.

A permanent worsening of hearing due to noise exposure.

The smallest unit in a language that is capable of conveying a change in meaning. For example, the “m” in “mat” versus the “b” in “bat.” There are 41 phonemes in the English language.

A fear of sound, or specific sounds. Phonophobia can be defined as abnormally strong reactions of the autonomic and limbic systems resulting from enhanced connections between the auditory and limbic systems, but do not involve a significant activation of the auditory system. The strength of the person’s reaction is only partially determined by the physical […]

The main drug reference book used by doctors, pharmacists and hospitals in the USA.

A form of signing that uses American Sign Language signs for the most part, but signed in English word order. People that are hard of hearing, if they sign, generally use PSE to supplement their oral communication. (See also Signed English.)