4 Questions to Ask Your Hearing Professional About Hearing Aids

If you have been diagnosed with hearing loss, your hearing care professional may recommend that you get a hearing aid. These devices help to:

• Amplify sound
• Enhance sound clarity
• Minimize hearing interference from background noises

But getting a hearing aid can make you anxious. There are so many factors to consider, and having plenty of information is the best way to ease the anxiety.

It would be best to prepare some questions to ask before your next meeting with your hearing care provider. That way, you will not forget to enquire about a serious concern, and you will feel more confident in your decision to get hearing aids. 

Well, here are four main questions to bring up at your next visit to your specialist’s office. 

What are the different types of hearing devices?

You may need to know the various types of hearing aids, and their pros and cons, before choosing one for yourself. The three main types of hearing devices are:

Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids

BTE devices are some of the most power-packed hearing aids. They go around the ear and are connected to a disc that fits in the ear canal. These hearing aids tend to be the biggest and come with a host of features. Some include an adjustable microphone, a rechargeable, long-lasting battery and better amplification. On the flip side, a BTE device is more noticeable and can pick wind noise than other devices.

In-the-ear (ITE) devices

ITE hearing aids are small hearing aids that fit into the outer bowl. Although they are smaller than BTEs, they are still quite noticeable. They also have fewer features than BTEs. On the bright side, these devices don’t pick up as much wind, and they may be easier to get used to.

In-the-canal (ITC) devices

ITC devices fit snuggly in the ear canal. They are the most discreet kind of hearing aid and are custom-made to suit each individual’s ear canal. Due to their small size, adjusting the volume may be a little tricky if you have dexterity issues. These aids are also more susceptible to clogging from a wax build-up in the ear canal.

How long does it take to adjust?

There is no denying that the first few days after getting your hearing aid may feel strange. However, with time, you will get so used to the device that you hardly ever notice that it’s there.

You may also be surprised by how much louder everything seems, from the rustling of the wind to the clicking noises on your computer keyboard. After a few days, however, you will adjust to the new sounds without even knowing it.

Which hearing aid is best for me?

Your hearing health professional will advise you on the device that best meets your needs based on several factors. These include:

• The extent of your hearing loss
• Your lifestyle
• Your preferences
• Whether your hearing loss is degenerative

It would be best if you describe your lifestyle to your hearing health professional in detail, as they will be better able to pick an excellent option for you.

What tips do you have about this device?

Your hearing provider may have a few helpful tips that can make it easier to adjust to the device. For instance, they may recommend a quick way to put the device on and remove it. They could also offer maintenance tips that will make the device last long.

For more information regarding hearing aids, give our specialists at Beltone Hearing Center – Lethbridge a call at (403) 942-4327.