Are Over-The-Counter Hearing Aids for You?
There has been a lot in the news lately about over-the-counter hearing aids. Are they for you? Possibly, but they probably aren’t your best choice.
First, everyone needs a hearing evaluation by a licensed audiologist. Audiologists are the only hearing professionals trained to diagnose hearing loss. Occasionally hearing loss is due to wax impaction or treatable medical problems. You might not even need a hearing aid. Do you have a mild hearing loss? Moderate hearing loss? Severe hearing loss? Most people have no idea. This makes a great difference in what hearing aid is appropriate for your needs.
After you have considered all of this, and you go to the store to pick up a pair. Then what? Hearing aids are not like the reading glasses you pick up in the grocery store. You put them on and you can read the labels. I’ve done that. It works great. Hearing aids are not the same. If you can figure out how to put the store bought hearing aids on and get them to fit, then what? They haven’t been programmed for you. If they are too strong, you could damage your hearing. How do you take care of them? They seem a lot less expensive, but are they?
When I fit my patients with hearing devices, it is much more involved than just giving them to the patient. Over the first month, I see my patient several times for adjustments and counseling. The key to success with hearing devices is ongoing care.
My goal, for all of my patients, is that they hear the very best that they can. If you have purchased over the counter hearing aids, or ordered online and need help. We can help you.
If you would like more information, give us a call at 727-323-2471.
Susan E. Terry, Au.D., F-AAA, F-NAP
Doctor of Audiology
Board Certified
P.S. We are here to help, if you have any questions about your hearing feel free to give us a call at 727-323-2471