Question 1

Will there be an improvement in my hearing with a hearing aid?

Accepted Answer

depends on the reasons behind your hearing loss. Your doctor will evaluate the condition and will suggest options. If the reason for hearing loss is an obstruction due to wax, it can be rectified by clearing the canal. Your doctor may suggest a hearing aid if you still have hearing loss. In some cases, the sensory hair cells in the inner ear may get damaged and cause hearing loss. You can benefit from a hearing aid if this is the reason behind the hearing loss. Hearing loss can also happen in older adults and can be managed with hearing aids.

Question 2

How can I get a hearing aid?

Accepted Answer

ear, nose, and throat doctor (ENT) can evaluate your hearing impairment and suggest an appropriate device for you. He will examine your ear closely to understand the main cause behind the hearing loss and suggest an ideal hearing aid for you. Avoid purchasing hearing aids online or through other sources without consulting a specialist.

Question 3

Can I get a hearing device that is not visible on the outside?

Accepted Answer

aids used to be bigger and ugly. Currently, several devices are smaller in size and can fit completely inside the ear. Invisible-in-canal hearing devices are the smallest version with better functionality. Handling them will be some challenges as they are too small, but your specialist can guide you on how to get used to them.

Question 4

How long do hearing aids last?

Accepted Answer

aids can last 3 to 5 years and may have to be replaced if your hearing impairment gets worse. If you are using a digital aid, you can upgrade it regularly based on the software updates.

Question 5

Will the sounds be too loud with a hearing aid?

Accepted Answer

hearing aid devices can adjust the sound automatically to make it audible to you and not necessarily amplify it. Your specialist can explain all the options according to your budget and preferences.

Question 6

How soon will I get adjusted to the hearing aid?

Accepted Answer

depends on the severity of your condition and how soon you have started using the aid. Your brain plays an active role in translating the signals into sounds and improving your ability to recognise them. The longer you delay using the hearing aid, the more difficult it will be to rehabilitate. Your doctor will help you get adjusted to the device sooner.

Question 7

Can I return my hearing aid if I am unsatisfied?

Accepted Answer

hearing clinics offer a trial period, during which you can try the device for a limited period and see if it suits your needs. If you are not satisfied, you can return the device. In some cases, the service provider might ask for a partial payment. Consult your doctor to understand the policies before you purchase the hearing aid.

Question 8

What should I do before the cochlear implant surgery?

Accepted Answer

doctor will thoroughly evaluate, including medical exams and imaging studies, before the surgery. You will be provided counselling sessions to clarify the performance and limitations of the device. The surgery will be a 2-4 hour procedure and will be performed under general anaesthesia. You must share all the details of your medical history, especially if you are uncomfortable with some specific medication. Your insurance provider might be covering some of the procedures' costs. Your doctor can help you with details about the scope of coverage and out-of-pocket expenses. Be prepared to stay at least a day in the hospital.

Question 9

Can I sleep with the hearing aid?

Accepted Answer

aids are worn during the day or during active work. Once you are ready to sleep, remove the hearing aid and pull out the batteries to improve the battery life.

Question 10

Can I have my hearing aid while swimming or bathing?

Accepted Answer

hearing aids are water resistant, but removing the device while having a shower or swimming is recommended.

Question 11

How often should I clean my hearing aid?

Accepted Answer

your hearing aid regularly will increase its durability. Accumulation of dust can damage the device. You are advised to clean the hearing aid once a month with a simple cloth.

Question 12

What are the types of hearing impairment?

Accepted Answer

impairment can be categorised into the following three types – 13; Sensorineural hearing loss: Sensorineural hearing loss is quite common and occurs when the inner ear nerves and hair cells suffer damage due to age, noise, or other factors. This hearing loss affects the pathways from the inner ear to the brain and can’t be medically or surgically rectified. However, it can be managed by using hearing aids. 13; Conductive hearing loss: Conductive hearing loss occurs when fluid, tumours, earwax, or ear formation leads to obstructions in the outer or middle ear. Because of these obstructions, sound doesn't reach the inner ear. Conductive hearing loss can be treated with surgery and medicines. 13; Mixed hearing loss: Mixed hearing loss combines the above-mentioned hearing loss types. It is essential to know about the condition before going for a treatment procedure. Hence, it is recommended that you consult with your doctor first to properly diagnose the type, cause, and degree of hearing loss. 13;

Question 13

Can hearing aids lead to further hearing loss?

Accepted Answer

most circumstances, your hearing aids won’t lead to further hearing loss. However, if they are not programmed correctly, some damage to your hearing may occur. Prolonged exposure to loud noises, typically 80 decibels or more, can lead to hearing loss. Therefore, it is essential to program your hearing aids appropriately. Make sure that your hearing aids are programmed precisely, fit your ears well and filter sounds perfectly.

Question 14

Can hearing aids slow or stop hearing loss?

Accepted Answer

hearing aids are quite helpful in slowing down the progression of hearing loss. Your auditory nerve cells need stimulation to stay healthy. When you have hearing loss, these nerve cells are not used efficiently and gradually weaken. As a result, the brain must work harder to process the sounds and information coming in through those nerves, leading to further loss of hearing abilities.

Question 15

Can hearing loss be restored?

Accepted Answer

hearing loss cannot be restored, but it can be managed. Hearing aids are the most common treatment. Other methods involve different types of implants and surgical procedures. Hearing aids are used in cases of sensorineural hearing loss. For conductive hearing loss, the ear's blockage must be removed by operation. Hearing aids and implants might also be needed here. Treatment must be done immediately in cases of sudden hearing loss, which may involve the use of steroids. Seeking immediate medical help is critical if you experience a sudden hearing loss.

Question 16

Is it better to wear two hearing aids instead of one?

Accepted Answer

you have hearing loss in both ears, you will need two hearing aids. However, if the level of hearing loss is different in each ear, it is still advisable to use two hearing aids. Your hearing care doctor or audiologist will program the appropriate level of amplification for each ear so that both of your ears pick up sound and get the required stimulation to function correctly. However, according to some research, people with dementia or cognitive delays may have trouble using two hearing aids as it could be overstimulating for their auditory pathways and brains. So, they can use just one hearing aid. You can also use one hearing aid provided that one of your ears has no or mild hearing loss. You will still have to go for regular check-ups to see if your good ear is hearing well enough.

Hearing aids and cochlear implants