4 Frequently Asked Questions About Hearing Aids

Managing hearing loss varies for everyone, so it’s important to know your options when considering hearing aids. You may have several questions about how hearing aids work and how they can improve your hearing. There are various types of hearing aids available, and it’s essential to find the one that best suits your lifestyle.

How Do Hearing Aids Work?

Hearing aids have a microphone built into them that picks up external sounds and then amplifies them, sending them through the internal speaker, which plays into your ear, helping improve your hearing. There are different hearing aids that your audiologist can recommend. These include:

• • In the ear (ITE) These hearing aids fit in the outer bowl of the ear and is suited for mild-to-moderately-severe hearing loss.
  • Behind the ear (BTE): These hearing aids are designed so that the main compartment is worn behind the ears and then connected to an earpiece that sits inside the ear canal.
  • In the canal (ITC): An ITC hearing aid fits in the canal of your ear. These are smaller than other types of hearing aids. ITC hearing aids are recommended for someone who is experiencing mild-to-moderate hearing loss.

How Long Do Hearing Aid Batteries Last?

The length of time varies from device to device, so it’s best to check this when deciding on what hearing aid to opt for. On average, a battery-operated hearing aid will last up to 22 days. If you have rechargeable batteries, these will need to be charged overnight.

How Can I Care for My Hearing Aid?

When asking your audiologist about how to care for your hearing aid, it’s important to get clear advice on maintaining it properly. Ask how often you should clean the device and what tools you should use to do so. You might also want to know how to store it safely when you’re not wearing it, like keeping it in a dry place. It’s also helpful to ask about the best ways to handle battery changes and what to do if the hearing aid stops working properly. Your audiologist can provide specific tips based on the type of hearing aid you have. Taking good care of your hearing aid will help it last longer and work better.

When you’re considering getting hearing aids, it’s a good idea to consult an expert like an audiologist. They can guide you toward the best options for your specific needs. Since every individual’s hearing loss is different, what works for someone else might not work for you, making it important to get professional advice tailored to you.