Top 8 Questions to Ask Your Hearing Specialist

Hearing is a vital sense that significantly impacts our daily lives, from communicating with loved ones to enjoying the sounds of nature. If you’ve observed a change in your hearing, it’s a sign that you should seek professional guidance. Consulting with an audiologist is the most prudent course of action. These specialized experts possess the knowledge and expertise to conduct a comprehensive assessment of your hearing capabilities.

There are some health issues that are related to hearing loss and hearing loss can also put you at risk of other health issues. For example, cognitive decline is common in those with hearing loss as they withdraw from others due to hearing loss: it’s a cycle! With the help of a hearing specialist, you can have your hearing effectively tested and the right support given. While it’s true that hearing loss may not be completely reversible, there are a multitude of strategies and interventions available to help optimize your hearing abilities. Remember, looking after your hearing now can lead to a clearer and more enjoyable experience with sound as time goes on.

1. What Are the Different Hearing Loss Types?

It’s vital that you understand your hearing loss so you can better understand your treatment options. There are three types of hearing loss: conductive, which occurs when sound is blocked between the outer ear canal and the eardrum, sensorineural, which occurs with damage to the inner ear or the nerve pathways between the inner ear and the brain. The last type is mixed hearing loss, which is a combination of conductive and sensorineural.

2. How Severe is Your Hearing Loss?

This is a good question to ask because your audiologist will be able to use the results of your hearing tests to determine the severity. Hearing loss ranges from mild to profound and the options you have for your hearing treatment will depend on the level you are dealing with.

3. Are Both Ears Affected?

Did you know that your ears can have a variation in hearing ability? As with the eyes, you might notice that there is a slight difference between each ear with hearing loss. If you have hearing in just one ear, it’s known as unilateral hearing loss. Sometimes, this requires more than a hearing aid for support.

4. What Hearing Aid Styles Are Available?

Cost is always a good question to ask but it’s also important to ask about additional costs, for things like batteries and hearing aid adjustments and maintenance. You should ensure that you know what’s included so that you can make accurate decisions.

5. What Hearing Aids Features Are Right for You?

There are a lot of hearing aids on the market to choose from and you should make sure that your audiologist knows if you have a preference. The more information that you give a hearing specialist about your activities and environments, the more they can recommend hearing aids to you.

6. How Often Do Hearing Aids Need to be Adjusted?

The frequency of hearing aid adjustments depends on various factors, including the individual’s specific hearing needs, the type of hearing aid and any changes in their hearing over time. In general, it’s recommended to have hearing aids checked and adjusted annually by an audiologist. However, if the user experiences any discomfort, changes in their listening experience or notices that the aids are not performing optimally, it’s important to schedule an appointment for adjustments as soon as possible.

7. How Long Do Hearing Aids Last?

Eventually, your hearing aids will wear out because this is technology and it’s how it works. You can keep up with adjustments and maintenance and you should ensure that you are aware how long they will last so that you can budget. You should talk to your hearing specialist about how to care for your hearing devices off the back of this conversation.

8. How Do You Maintain Hearing Aids?

Maintaining hearing aids is crucial for their optimal performance and longevity. Regularly clean the devices with a soft, dry cloth to remove any debris or moisture. Additionally, store them in a cool, dry place when not in use and avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures or humidity. Finally, ensure that the batteries are replaced regularly to prevent any interruptions in hearing aid function.

If you’re ready to get started on your hearing health journey, consider scheduling an appointment with an audiologist! There are plenty of treatment options out there for everyone, so don’t hesitate to get in touch with the team at Bluegrass Hearing Clinic by calling (859) 295-5729.