Audiologist Answers 4 FAQs About Hearing Aid Fittings

Hearing aids are some of the most common and effective ways to treat hearing loss. They can help you restore your range and quality of hearing by a significant degree, and help you better live the lifestyle you want. However, many an audiologist will experience a patient who is nervous or unsure about the process of fitting a hearing aid. For that reason, we’re going to look at some of the most commonly asked questions and what you can expect.

Do I get a hearing aid fitting immediately?

You will not have a hearing aid fitted immediately after your hearing test. Rather, they tend to take place around two weeks after the test. Before you get fitted, you will have an appointment to help you decide if you want hearing aids. Your audiologist can help you narrow down your selection based on your needs and wants, such as the type and severity of hearing loss, as well as the lifestyle and work environments you want to be able to hear effectively in. The device of your choice is ordered and an appointment scheduled for the fitting itself.

What happens during a hearing aid fitting?

When you go for a fitting, the audiologist will first ensure that you are ready and made as comfortable as possible. This includes using an otoscope to ensure there aren’t any obstructions or new issues that could make the fitting painful or any less effective. You may have a build-up of wax that is treated before you get the fitting, for instance. The fitting itself takes very little time. Finally, the audiologist will help you test out and adjust the settings so that your hearing aid is as effective as possible.

What happens after the fitting?

You will likely be asked to wear your new hearing aid for a few hours after the initial fitting. The audiologist will have shown you how to insert and remove the hearing aid after the fitting and you will likely discuss a schedule that sees you wearing the device for longer periods of time each day. Before too long, you will be wearing the device all throughout the day.

Am I going to need another appointment?

Your audiologist is going to want to see you again, usually a few weeks after the initial hearing. Mostly, this will be to ensure that the device is comfortable and that it is as effective as expected. However, if the hearing aid isn’t comfortable, isn’t working as well as hoped or seems to be malfunctioning, you don’t have to wait. Call the audiologist’s office and arrange an appointment. The sooner you can fix any issues with your hearing aid, the sooner you can enjoy life with a greater sense of hearing.

Your audiologist will be there to guide you every step of the way during your hearing aid fitting. First-time fittings are a common occurrence, so you should rest easy knowing that you’re in hands that have helped many others through the exact same process.