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Popular help topics: hearing aids, hearing, tinnitus treatment, hearing test, hearing protection
Commonly Asked Questions
We are here to offer our support and knowledge through every step of your hearing journey.
Below we’ve gathered some frequently asked questions to help you better understand hearing problems, treatments and solutions, how they work and what they can do for you.
What causes hearing loss?
The most common causes of hearing loss are age-related hearing loss called presbycusis, noise induced hearing loss and hearing loss associated with medical conditions such as middle ear infections, otosclerosis and Meniere’s disease. Autoimmune ear diseases, genetic and hereditary conditions, trauma to the ear/head and certain antibiotic and chemotherapy drugs also can also cause hearing loss.
Knowing the cause of the hearing loss is very important because this will determine the course of treatment.
What are the types of hearing loss?
The three main types of hearing loss are based on the location of the problem in the ear. Conductive refers to a hearing loss that is caused by damage or obstruction in the outer or middle ear. Sensorineural refers to a hearing loss that is caused by damage to the hair cells in the inner ear or auditory nerve. Mixed refers to a hearing loss that is caused by a combination of problems in the outer, middle and inner ears.
How will I know I need hearing aids?
Your spouse or a loved one is usually the first person to notice a change in your hearing. Listen to them when they start making comments about your hearing. If you are asking people to repeat often, turning the volume of the TV louder, having difficulty hearing in restaurants or noisy places, it is time to have your hearing checked by an Audiologist.
Will hearing aids restore my hearing?
Hearing aids are designed to help you hear better but can not restore your hearing.
Will hearing aids prevent my hearing loss from getting worse?
Hearing aids can not prevent the further decrease in hearing. However, hearing aids now are so advanced that they can be reprogrammed should your hearing get worse.
What is the difference between an Audiologist, Hearing Instrument Specialist and Audioprosthologist?
The main difference is the training and education. Currently, a Doctorate degree is required to become an Audiologist. An Audiologist is trained in the diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of hearing and balance problems. On the other hand, the minimum requirement to become a Hearing Instrument Specialist and an Audioprosthologist is a high school degree and some training in hearing aids and hearing aid fitting.
What is the price range of hearing aids
The cost of hearing aids can range from $1000 to as high as $7,000 for a pair depending on the level of technology. The most advanced level will have the latest and greatest features especially for reducing background noise.
It is important to remember that when purchasing hearing aids you are not just paying for the devices, you are also paying for the professional services.
Why should I buy hearing aids when they are so expensive?
The cost of not hearing is worth more than the cost of a pair of hearing aids. A study conducted by Better Hearing Institute suggests that untreated hearing loss can reduce your income by as much as $12,000 to as high as $30,000. The same study discovered that wearing hearing aids can mitigate the difference by as much as 50%.
Untreated hearing loss also puts you at greater risk for Alzheimer’s and Dementia.
When you buy hearing aids, you really are investing in the quality of your life. You can not really put a price on that.
Is there a treatment for tinnitus?
Yes there are now hearing aids with special programs for the treatment of tinnitus.
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