Over-the-counter hearing aid choices are showing up more often. These devices are meant to make it convenient to get help for hearing loss. They also maximize the affordability of hearing assistance. However, using over-the-counter hearing aids has caused quite a bit of concern and we will be discussing these concerns below.
Don’t neglect getting a hearing test
The concept that you can just go get a hearing aid at the store or online without going through important steps like a hearing test is a serious worry. Without these steps, it is impossible to know which solution is correct for you. You might also fail to recognise signs that your hearing loss is related to other health concerns. Hearing tests also inform you of how to program the device for best results.
Not all hearing loss is Identical
Most people think that hearing loss is just a lowering of the volume of sounds you hear. When you do that on your radio or your phone the effect is immediate – everything goes quiet.
But actual hearing loss is more like playing around with the levels on a high-end stereo system or your music app on your computer. This occurs because different wavelengths and frequencies are impacted with hearing loss. So, you could actually be doing further damage to your hearing if your hearing aid is not precisely calibrated.
The particular frequencies that are being boosted by the over-the-counter hearing aid will usually be printed on the box. If you’ve had a recent audiogram you can try to do it yourself, but you may still need help with the programming of it. When your hearing loss is especially complex, over the counter hearing aids may not provide the kind of customisation you’ll need.
How to be smart with your hearing aid decisions
Right now, people have the largest selection of hearing aid choices ever. But because there are so many choices, it also makes choosing the right one that much harder.
Here are a few ways you can make some wise decisions with your hearing aids:
Be certain you’re not buying a hearing amplifier.
It can often be challenging to tell the difference. Where a hearing aid will boost only certain frequencies of sound, a hearing amplifier will turn up the volume on everything. And after a while, that can impair your hearing. Obviously, you only need to increase the wavelengths you have trouble hearing. If your hearing is poor in the high register, you obviously don’t require to boost the lower end which could damage your hearing.
Keep us as audiologists involved.
Whether you choose to go for over-the-counter hearing aids or not, it’s incredibly beneficial to speak with us first. We can test your hearing to see exactly how complex your hearing impairment is. An over-the-counter hearing aid may not be a good match. We can also provide you with an audiogram, so you’ll be able to choose the correct strategy for your needs.
Over-the-counter hearing aids are often not the best solution. But with a little professional assistance and knowledge, most of these obstacles can be overcome. Hearing is essential to your overall health. It’s worth taking the extra step and get evaluated first.
About Strauss Audiology
Strauss Audiology is a professional audiology business in the northern suburbs of Cape Town, offering expert, effective hearing advice that is tailored to clients’ unique hearing needs. We conduct hearing evaluations, hearing tests and vertigo assessments, and provide a range of solutions to improve and protect clients’ hearing. This includes providing hearing aids to Cape Town clients. With 16 years of experience, and with the qualifications and certifications to deliver leading hearing care, you can trust us to take care of your hearing needs.
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