FAQs for Hearing Health Professionals

Matt DearingHearing Loss

Hearing loss is the third most frequent medical problem in the United States, so it’s no wonder that there’s a wealth of knowledge and study on the subject. Sorting through all of this data can be overwhelming, especially if you’re just getting started on your path to better hearing health. 

 

As you prepare to seek treatment for your hearing loss, we’ve developed a list of critical questions to ask your audiologist.

 

What is the nature of my hearing loss?

 

We’ll tell what type of hearing loss you have based on your audiogram (your hearing test results). Conductive, sensorineural, and mixed are the three categories. Sensorineural affects the inner ear, hair cells, and neural pathways, while conductive affects the outer and middle ear. Mixed hearing loss is a mix of the two.

 

Does my hearing loss have anything to do with my diet or medication?

 

Remember to tell us about any medications you’re taking before your hearing test. Certain drugs have been related to damage to inner ear hair cells, which results in hearing loss. Hearing loss has been linked to reduced B12 and folic acid levels in those with normal hearing. The more information you can provide about your lifestyle, the more a hearing professional will assist you.

 

Can I benefit from a hearing aid?

 

Based on the degree and hearing loss you have, we will decide whether or not a hearing instrument will benefit you. Hearing tools are available to treat varying degrees of hearing loss, ranging from minor to profound.

 

Will wearing a hearing aid make my hearing worse?

 

Hearing aids are complex and precise gadgets that help you hear the sounds you wish to hear better. Indeed, numerous studies have demonstrated that wearing a hearing aid improves your hearing and preserves the auditory circuits in your brain. Your hearing professional will collaborate with you to choose the best course of action.

 

Can a hearing aid be used in a noisy environment?

 

Yes. Most hearing aids contain many microphones to provide the wearer with a better environment through spatial sound. Hearing aids using digital technology decrease background noise and allow the wearer to concentrate on the sounds they wish to hear. There is an option to switch off the back mics in some circumstances if background noise becomes too much. We can discuss your options with you.

 

How can I safeguard my hearing?

 

Your hearing professional will provide you with information on how to avoid being exposed to harmful noise levels as well as techniques to implement into your everyday life, such as the 60-60 rule, which states that you should only listen to music or media at 60% loudness for 60 minutes at a time. Custom-made hearing protection, such as earplugs, is also a good alternative if operating in a noisy setting.

 

Will wearing a hearing aid necessitate a lot of lifestyle changes?

 

Your hearing professional will give you specific advice on when to wear and remove your hearing aids, depending on the hearing aid you have. Because most hearing aids are water-sensitive, you’ll have to take them out before taking a shower or going swimming. After not hearing clearly, wearing a hearing aid may seem weird at first. Your hearing professional will provide you with tips on using your new hearing aid in everyday situations.

 

Is it necessary for me to wear two hearing aids?

 

This depends on the type and degree of your hearing aid once again. If you have binaural hearing loss (hearing loss on both sides), the best solution is to use two hearing aids. Your audiogram will show you your hearing levels by ear, allowing your audiologist to determine the best treatment options for you.

 

Does Medicare fund hearing aids?

 

Medicare does not currently cover hearing aids. According to the proposed legislation, hearing aids and hearing loss-related expenses may be covered by Medicare in the future.

 

What kind of hearing aid maintenance do I need to keep up with?

 

Our experts at My Hearing Centers will provide you with step-by-step guidance on properly caring for your hearing aid. Hearing aids should be removed at night and stored in a cool, dry location. Ask about rechargeable battery options, as the average hearing aid requires a battery change every week or biweekly. Our staff will also suggest a time to have your hearing aids cleaned and tuned up.