Choosing a Hearing Aid<\/h2>\n\n\n If you are experiencing hearing loss, odds are good that you\u2019ll benefit from a hearing aid. But choosing the right one is no simple task. Today\u2019s hearing aids are smaller and more feature-packed than their predecessors, offering an array of options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Narrowing the choices down can be tough, but there are a few important things you should take into consideration before choosing a hearing aid.<\/p>\n\n\n
What Are Your Hearing Needs?<\/h3>\n\n\n First, you\u2019ll need to have an audiologist assess your hearing loss. Severity is measured in degrees, based upon your hearing loss range in decibels. It ranges from normal (-10 to 15 dB) to profound (91+ dB), with a total of seven different degrees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Equally important is the frequency of your hearing loss. Conductive hearing loss resulting from damage to the outer or middle ear affects low frequency sounds, while sensorineural hearing loss, in which damage occurs to the inner ear, results in a loss of high frequency sounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Additional considerations that will help an audiologist pair you with the right hearing aid include:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nLifestyle Needs<\/strong>: Functionality is an important consideration. With so many available features, you\u2019ll need to decide which ones matter most to you. Features like Bluetooth\u00ae connectivity, automatic volume control, rechargeable batteries, App connectivity, and AI-Assisted on the fly adjustments are becoming more commonplace, but aren\u2019t available in all models yet. <\/p>\n\n\n\nCosmetic Preferences<\/strong>: Hearing aids are available in a variety of sizes and styles, some visible while others are implanted deep within the ear canal, rendering them virtually undetectable. Many are custom-molded to fit each individual\u2019s ears. <\/p>\n\n\n\nBudgetary Considerations<\/strong>: Some of the cheaper, entry-level products are not classified as hearing aids by the FDA, which requires devices to meet stringent guidelines. Having a professional assist you with the product decision ensures you are protecting your hearing health.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\nAn audiologist can help you make the best choice for you<\/h2>\n\n\n Hearing aids range widely in cost; finding the right product for your needs depends upon a thorough hearing evaluation by a qualified audiologist, who will provide a recommendation perfectly suited to your type and degree of hearing loss and budget, as well as other lifestyle factors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n