We had an appointment today to pick up Trey’s new ear moulds (one blue and one green). Sara, his audiologist, also decided to do bone conduction tests to see how his inner ear is hearing. His last bone conduction test was in September 2007 and was consistent with his ABR done in July 2006. The bone conduction test gives us an idea of where his permanent hearing is at. So, it is down. He does have increased permanent loss. Whereas before Trey’s hearing was mild-moderate, now his hearing is mild-moderately severe. I’m not too troubled about it at this point…
The thing I’m troubled and feel incredibly guilty and angry about is his ear moulds. Until today, I didn’t think to ask what they are made of. We eat all organic foods, have no plastic in the house, avoid all toxic glues, bedding, toys etc., but his hearing aides are made of PVC. Argggggggggggg. Needless to say, we have ordered new ear moulds, to arrive next week, that are made from medical grade silicone. If you haven’t heard, below is a description of what PVC is, taken from the www.healthychild.org website:
“Phthalates are a class of chemicals used as softeners, or plasticizers, in polyvinyl chloride (PVC, vinyl) products, including children’s toys, decorating and building products, and blood bags, and solvents and other additives in a wide range of consumer products, including cosmetics, personal care products, wood finishes and insecticides.
DEHP and DINP are used in flexible plastic and vinyl toys, some teethers, food packaging and cling wraps, medical devices, backpacks, shower curtains, building materials such as pipes, vinyl flooring and wallpaper, and other products.
DBP and DEP are used in some adhesives, dyesinks, mosquito insect repellents, plastic plumbing pipes, and personal care products such as nail polish, skin moisturizers, and perfumes.
Note: The carcinogenicity of DEP, DBP and DINP to humans is unknown at this time.
Health Effects
Immediate Health Effects
If SWALLOWED, phthalates is Slightly Toxic
If ABSORBED THROUGH SKIN, phthalates is Moderately Toxic
If INHALED (SNIFFED OR BREATHED IN), phthalates is Slightly Toxic
Longterm or Delayed Health Effects
This chemical is likely to cause cancer. It is considered a Probable Carcinogen by the World Health Organization, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, or another agency.
Allergen
Suspected Endocrine Disruptor = May interfere with, mimic or block hormones
Development Toxicant = Can interfere with normal development of a fetus or child
Reproductive Toxicant = Can harm reproductive system”
Why any company would use PVC in their hearing aid moulds is beyond me!
