DIMAPUR, MARCH 4 (MExN): On March 3, the International Ear Care Day with the theme ‘Make Listening Safe’ was observed at Government Middle School, Naga Bazar, Kohima, organized by the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Deafness (NPPCD) under the Department of Health & Family Welfare.
During the program, Dr. R. Zhimatho, ENT Specialist, NHAK delivered a health talk on the causes of ear problems, prevention of hearing loss, the need for early detection and timely interventions. He said that hearing defect or loss is caused by prolonged exposure to loud noise, INSERT IGNOREing objects into the ears, slapping on the ears leading to bursting of ear drums, ear wax, or ear infections leading to discharge from ears.
He advised that listening to loud music should be avoided and those who are involved in occupations with prolonged exposure to loud noise should use a cotton plug in the ears. INSERT IGNOREing pointed objects like pencil into the ears or cleaning the ears with dirty objects should be avoided. School teachers should not slap or hit the child on the ear and a doctor should be consulted in case of discharge from the ear.
Highlighting the services available at NHAK in Kohima and in few other district hospitals in the state under NPPCD, he advised the children, school teachers and the community to go for check-up with any ear related problems and prevent hearing loss.
The program was followed by screening and treating of school children for ear and hearing problems as well as raising awareness through use of information leaflets and talks.
Altogether 47 school children with ear related problems from Govt. Middle School, Naga Bazar and Naga Bazar Baptist School were screened and given free medicines. Some of the common cases seen in the camp were ear wax, ear discharge, chronic hearing loss, and ear-ache. Hearing Aids were provided to 3 cases and some cases were referred to higher facility for further treatment. With the support of the colony panchayat, some community elders also availed the services.
