Audiology Q&A

How do I know if I have a hearing loss?
Are you having difficulty hearing normal-level conversational speech either in quiet or in noise? Do others complain that you listen to television or radio at high volume levels? Do you find yourself asking others to repeat what was said, or do you simply nod your head and act like you heard what was said? Do you find yourself missing important statements at meetings or embarrassed by incorrectly answering a question? These are a few signs that you may need to have a hearing evaluation to determine if a hearing loss is present.

How do I know if I need a hearing aid?
The first step in determining the answer to this question is to do a comprehensive hearing evaluation. This test will indicate if you have a hearing loss due to a medical problem or if you have a sensorineural hearing loss. If you have a hearing loss that is related to a possible medical problem you will be referred to a physician for medical evaluation. Quite often, a hearing loss occurs because of the aging process or exposure to noise or certain drugs. These hearing losses are almost always permanent and correctable only with the help of hearing instruments. Your personal physician is always aware of the test results and any recommendations made regarding the appropriate course of action.

What type of hearing aid do I need?
This question can only be answered following the hearing evaluation. In the majority of cases, any style of hearing aid can be worn by an individual. The exception to this would be persons with severe and profound hearing losses. In these cases, a behind-the-ear hearing instrument will be recommended. Your audiologist will explore your options following the hearing exam.

Will a hearing aid help me?
You have a thirty day trial period to assess the benefit provided by your hearing instruments. During this thirty day period, you will be seen in our office to better help you with any problems you may be having. Together we will evaluate your progress and you will be given tips on making this adjustment period less stressful for you. You may return the hearing aids at the end of this period if you feel you are not benefitting from amplification.

Do I need a hearing aid in both ears?
If your hearing loss is the same in both ears, or symmetrical, I always recommend two hearing instruments. Binaural amplification enables the listener to better focus on what is being said in noisy situations. Speech discrimination ability is enhanced in both noisy and quiet environments. Two hearing aids also give you the ability to localize where a sound is coming from. It also gives you the benefit of "stereo" listening. Research supports the statement that we were "built" with two ears and the brain responds more favorably with equal input from both sides.

How do I take care of my hearing aids?
Technology is improving the durability of newer hearing aids. You must, however, do your part to protect your investment in better hearing.

Daily cleaning - Wipe the hearing aid with a soft cloth or tissue. Do not put any type of cleaner on the hearing aid. If you feel it needs cleaning more than this, bring it to our office.

Wax cleaning - One of the largest culprits in hearing aid repair is ear wax, or cerumen. If wax gets pushed down in the hearing aid it blocks the amplified sound from leaving the aid. If it is pushed down far enough, it can even damage the receiver. Visually inspect the hearing aid and clean the opening with the tool you received with your hearing aid. Remove any debris you see. If this is done on a regular basis, you will have fewer frustrations with your hearing aid's performance. We have a wax cleaning machine if you feel your hearing aid needs a good cleaning. If you find you are cleaning a lot of wax from the hearing aid, consider checking with your physician to see if your ears need cleaning.

Keep safe and dry - Keep the hearing aids safe by putting them in a drawer when not wearing them. Pets will destroy the aids in a second if they can get to them. Also, do not store the hearing aids in the bathroom or other places of high humidity. You want to keep them dry, which also means not wearing them while bathing, showering, or swimming. Do not spray hair spray with the hearing aids in your ears.

Following these few tips will help you maintain your hearing aids in peak condition.

Where do I get batteries?
You can get batteries at the window of our office. Packages are $5.50 each or buy 5 packages for $27.50 and get a sixth pack free. Please store new batteries or dispose of your used batteries properly. Batteries contain poisonous material and could be harmful if ingested by individuals or pets. If you think someone has eaten a battery, immediately seek medical attention by calling your physician or the poison information number at (419)383-3897.

If you have any other questions regarding hearing aids, please email us. We would love to hear from you!