expert type icon EXPERT

Brooke Pearce, AUD

Audiologist

Dr. Brooke Pearce is an audiologist practicing in Los Angeles, CA. Dr. Pearce evaluates, diagnoses and collaboratively treats vestibular balance disorders. Dr. Pearce is the co-founder of Dizzy & Vertigo Institute of Los Angeles, with emphasis on new evidenced-based diagnostic and treatment options for vestibular disorders. Dr. Pearce has been practicing as a board-certified audiologist established in her career with an emphasis on collaborating with a multidisciplinary approach.
Brooke Pearce, AUD
  • LOS ANGELES, CA
  • Accepting new patients

What's this crackling noise in my ear?

This crackling is likely a form of Tinnitus. It’s the sensation of ringing, buzzing, hissing, chirping, whistling, or other sounds in the ears. For most people, Tinnitus doesn’t READ MORE
This crackling is likely a form of Tinnitus. It’s the sensation of ringing, buzzing, hissing, chirping, whistling, or other sounds in the ears. For most people, Tinnitus doesn’t escalate to anything more than an annoyance and inconvenience.

There are many causes of Tinnitus from earwax buildup to eardrum damage and many more. Therefore, treatment varies based on the cause. It’s best to consult an Audiologist or Otolaryngologist (ENT).

What is tinnitus?

Tinnitus is the sensation of ringing, buzzing, hissing, chirping, whistling, or other sounds in the ears. For most people, Tinnitus doesn’t escalate to anything more than an annoyance READ MORE
Tinnitus is the sensation of ringing, buzzing, hissing, chirping, whistling, or other sounds in the ears. For most people, Tinnitus doesn’t escalate to anything more than an annoyance and inconvenience.

There are many causes of Tinnitus from earwax buildup to eardrum damage and many more. Therefore, treatment varies based on the cause. It’s best to consult an Audiologist or Otolaryngologist (ENT).

Does hearing loss affect speech in adults?

Yes, hearing loss can affect a person’s ability to speak clearly. This is because part of the speaking process includes vibration in your ears. Losing this sensation makes it a READ MORE
Yes, hearing loss can affect a person’s ability to speak clearly. This is because part of the speaking process includes vibration in your ears. Losing this sensation makes it a bit harder to feel what you’re saying.

Can vertigo cause slurred speech?

If you’re experiencing slurred speech and you also have vertigo symptoms, then I’d highly recommend you visit an Audiologist with a specialty in vestibular disorders. These two READ MORE
If you’re experiencing slurred speech and you also have vertigo symptoms, then I’d highly recommend you visit an Audiologist with a specialty in vestibular disorders. These two symptoms in tandem are not something you should leave alone.

Will an otoplasty affect my ability to hear?

You can rest easy knowing that an otoplasty will not affect your hearing. This surgery only involves shaping, molding, or removing cartilage on the outer ear. Not the middle or READ MORE
You can rest easy knowing that an otoplasty will not affect your hearing. This surgery only involves shaping, molding, or removing cartilage on the outer ear. Not the middle or inner ear, where hearing takes place.

What can be the cause of frequent ear infections?

There are many ways of getting recurring (chronic) ear infections. Causes range from allergies to sinusitis to ear injuries to bacterial infections from colds or flu. If you haven’t READ MORE
There are many ways of getting recurring (chronic) ear infections. Causes range from allergies to sinusitis to ear injuries to bacterial infections from colds or flu. If you haven’t visited an Otolaryngologist (ENT) already, then I’d suggest you do so.

Neronitis

Skydiving can most certainly worsen your symptoms. My recommendation would be to get a handle on your symptoms and determine if you have a vestibular (balance) disorder. You can READ MORE
Skydiving can most certainly worsen your symptoms. My recommendation would be to get a handle on your symptoms and determine if you have a vestibular (balance) disorder. You can do so by visiting an Audiologist who specializes in vestibular disorders.

Is it possible to get ear drops over the counter?

We wouldn’t recommend any OTC drops, however, you can use child-formula Tylenol, Advil, or Motrin to help alleviate the pain. Anything more than that, please call your pediatrician READ MORE
We wouldn’t recommend any OTC drops, however, you can use child-formula Tylenol, Advil, or Motrin to help alleviate the pain. Anything more than that, please call your pediatrician for advice.

Why is my right ear clogged?

Yes, given the proximity of the back of the jaw and the ear, tooth pain can often travel to the ear. This is caused by nerves misinterpreting the location of pain and a build up READ MORE
Yes, given the proximity of the back of the jaw and the ear, tooth pain can often travel to the ear. This is caused by nerves misinterpreting the location of pain and a build up of fluid. Normally, as jaw swelling goes down, your ear clog should as well. However, since it has been four months, I would recommend you visit an Audiologist or Otolaryngologist (ENT Doctor) to determine the source of this problem.

How can I treat son's ear infection at home?

Although some people find success in treating their ear infections with home remedies, the chances of causing more pain is too high. And therefore not recommended. I would recommend READ MORE
Although some people find success in treating their ear infections with home remedies, the chances of causing more pain is too high. And therefore not recommended. I would recommend you visit an Otolaryngologist (ENT Doctor).

How often should I have a hearing test?

Getting your ears checked every 3 to 5 years is a general best practice. Because hearing loss often occurs gradually, it can be difficult to recognize when you have it.

Is a hearing test needed after a loud concert?

Yes, I would encourage you to go see an Audiologist or Otolaryngologist (ENT). In general, sounds above 85 dB (decibels) are harmful, depending on how long and how often you READ MORE
Yes, I would encourage you to go see an Audiologist or Otolaryngologist (ENT).

In general, sounds above 85 dB (decibels) are harmful, depending on how long and how often you are exposed to them and whether you wear hearing protection, such as earplugs or earmuffs. For reference, normal conversation is about 60 dB, a lawn mower is about 90 dB, and a loud rock concert is about 120 dB.

What's the normal hearing range for a child?

General hearing loss should not start setting in until middle-age or later. Children should have full-range of hearing. However, if your daughter is having trouble hearing at a READ MORE
General hearing loss should not start setting in until middle-age or later. Children should have full-range of hearing. However, if your daughter is having trouble hearing at a young age, then she might have some level of hearing impairment.

Can conductive hearing loss be corrected?

Conductive hearing loss occurs in the outer or middle ear where sound waves are not able to carry all the way through to the inner ear. Yes, it is possible for conductive hearing READ MORE
Conductive hearing loss occurs in the outer or middle ear where sound waves are not able to carry all the way through to the inner ear. Yes, it is possible for conductive hearing loss to be reversed through medical or surgical intervention.

Why do I hear ringing in my ears?

This ringing in the ears is called Tinnitus. It’s the sensation of ringing, buzzing, hissing, chirping, whistling, or other sounds in the ears. For most people, Tinnitus doesn’t READ MORE
This ringing in the ears is called Tinnitus. It’s the sensation of ringing, buzzing, hissing, chirping, whistling, or other sounds in the ears. For most people, Tinnitus doesn’t escalate to anything more than an annoyance and inconvenience. It can be a symptom of vestibular (balance) disorders. However, having Tinnitus doesn’t mean you have a vestibular disorder.

There are many causes of Tinnitus from earwax buildup to eardrum damage and many more. Therefore, treatment varies based on the cause. It’s best to consult an Audiologist or Otolaryngologist (ENT).

Why does hearing loss happen as you age?

Age-related hearing loss is caused by degeneration of sensory cells. It cannot, unfortunately, be reversed. However, it can be treated effectively with hearing aids and other communication READ MORE
Age-related hearing loss is caused by degeneration of sensory cells. It cannot, unfortunately, be reversed. However, it can be treated effectively with hearing aids and other communication devices.

Does hearing loss affect your speech?

Yes, hearing loss can affect a person’s ability to speak clearly. This is because part of the speaking process includes vibration in your ears. Losing this sensation makes it a READ MORE
Yes, hearing loss can affect a person’s ability to speak clearly. This is because part of the speaking process includes vibration in your ears. Losing this sensation makes it a bit harder to feel what you’re saying.

Cause of heart beat sound in left ear?

This is likely a form of Tinnitus. It’s the sensation of ringing, buzzing, hissing, chirping, whistling, or other sounds in the ears. For most people, Tinnitus doesn’t escalate READ MORE
This is likely a form of Tinnitus. It’s the sensation of ringing, buzzing, hissing, chirping, whistling, or other sounds in the ears. For most people, Tinnitus doesn’t escalate to anything more than an annoyance and inconvenience. It can be a symptom of vestibular (balance) disorders. However, having Tinnitus doesn’t mean you have a vestibular disorder.

There are many causes of Tinnitus from earwax buildup to eardrum damage and many more. Therefore, treatment varies based on the cause. It’s best to consult an Audiologist or Otolaryngologist (ENT).

Ringing in ears after cold. What do I do?

This ringing in the ears is called Tinnitus. It’s the sensation of ringing, buzzing, hissing, chirping, whistling, or other sounds in the ears. For most people, Tinnitus doesn’t READ MORE
This ringing in the ears is called Tinnitus. It’s the sensation of ringing, buzzing, hissing, chirping, whistling, or other sounds in the ears. For most people, Tinnitus doesn’t escalate to anything more than an annoyance and inconvenience. It can be a symptom of vestibular (balance) disorders. However, having Tinnitus doesn’t mean you have a vestibular disorder.

There are many causes of Tinnitus from earwax buildup to eardrum damage and many more. Therefore, treatment varies based on the cause. It’s best to consult an Audiologist or Otolaryngologist (ENT).

Why won't my ear infection go away?

Middle ear infections can affect your hearing – muffling sounds and your overall ability to hear. This can be unsettling, but it's almost always temporary and doesn't result in READ MORE
Middle ear infections can affect your hearing – muffling sounds and your overall ability to hear. This can be unsettling, but it's almost always temporary and doesn't result in any permanent hearing loss. I suggest visiting an Otolaryngologist (ENT) for advice.