What Happens When You Get Hearing Aids

Hearing loss is not something that usually develops over one night – unless facilitated by an injury. Because most hearing loss is gradual, the individual may not be aware they are experiencing any issues.

It’s important to understand what signs and symptoms to look out for when it comes to hearing loss. These signs may include: turning the TV or radio louder than others might prefer, trouble hearing women and children, asking others to repeat themselves frequently and difficulty understanding speech in a background of noise – like in a mall or a small group meeting.

Getting your hearing tested

Once you have decided to have your hearing tested, you will go to your first appointment with an audiologist. Your audiologist will gather a variety of information and testing, from a detailed medical background to a list of your current hearing loss symptoms and issues. After gathering the necessary information, you will have your hearing tested and the results will be charted on an audiogram. 

Selecting your hearing device

After viewing the results of your audiogram, your audiologist will be able to recommend a treatment for your hearing loss – generally a hearing aid. Your audiologist will take into account your lifestyle, activity level, any dexterity issues you may have, your budget and the results of your hearing test to recommend a hearing aid to best suit your needs. Once you have selected your device, you will schedule a hearing aid fitting appointment.

Your hearing aid fitting

Hearing aids are not a one-size-fits-all solution – they require programming and tailoring to your specific hearing needs. During your hearing aid fitting, your audiologist will ensure you have the best hearing experience possible, this means they’ll be positioning your hearing aid into your canal for the best fit possible. Additionally, your audiologist will adjust the settings and features of your device to make them specific for your hearing loss.

Once the proper fit has been established, the audiologist will show you how to insert and remove your device, in addition to the proper care and maintenance for your particular hearing aid. Your audiologist will also show you what type of batteries your device takes, how to take them in and out of your hearing aid and any other small tips and tricks. If you have any questions about your hearing aid, this is the right tie to ask them!

The adjustment period

Hearing aids require some getting used to, which is why this adjustment period is usually the most challenging part of getting a device. Because hearing loss occurs gradually, many people have become accustomed to not hearing certain sounds. Once you have a hearing aid, all these sounds begin to invade your listening experience again, which can be overwhelming to some. This adjustment period usually lasts anywhere from two weeks to one month, which is why your audiologist will generally schedule a follow-up appointment around this time. Feel free to express any concerns you may have at this appointment, to not only help you solve any issues, but to allow your audiologist to make any adjustments to better your hearing experience.

If at any time you have any questions about your hearing aids, make sure to bring them up with your audiologist. Your hearing aids are an important purchase for not only your hearing health, but your overall health, so make sure you are getting the most out of them!