1. Do you have to get hearing aids from an audiologist?

Not if you are an adult. Hearing instrument specialist have been trained and have the knowledge to properly fit hearing aids.

2. Can’t I buy a hearing aid online?

A lot of people use the Internet for research purposes, which is great. However buying a hearing aid online is not such a good idea. By doing this, you will be bypassing the medical evaluation/hearing test with a professional and will have to sign a medical evaluation waiver. This can be a bad idea, as in some cases patients need a medical referral before they can even be fitted with a hearing aid. By buying online, you will also not receive the proper rehabilitation and instruction that is crucial to hearing aid success.

3. What are the different hearing aid styles?

a. BTE or behind the ear hearing aids are placed behind the ear and connect with tubing to custom-fitted ear pieces.

b. ITE or in the ear hearing aids fill the entire bowl of the ear along with part of the ear canal.

c. ITC or in the canal are smaller versions of the ITE are called half shells.

d. CIC are the least visible of the hearing aids and are entirely in the canal.

4. Will I need a hearing aid for both ears?

This depends. If you have hearing loss in both ears then two is best. When listening in a noisy environment like a restaurant or crowded area, it is often difficult to discern where sounds are coming from. On the other hand, if the quality of hearing in one ear is markedly different than the other, then one aid may be all you need. Again, this is where your hearing professional can help.

5. I do not think I have a problem hearing…other people just mumble.

If you find yourself having to repeatedly ask people to speak up or repeat what they said to you, chances are you have a hearing deficit.

6. If I have to get a hearing aid, I want a small one.

Unfortunately, hearing aids are not a one size fits all fix. What you may want in your hearing aid style may not be what will deliver the best hearing experience for you. After testing you, your hearing specialist will be able to determine what type of hearing aid will best fit your needs.