Scheduling an audiology appointment is an exciting step towards understanding and treating your hearing loss. Let’s take a look at a handful of questions you can ask during your appointment to ensure you get all the information you need to move forward confidently.
Question #1: What Type and Degree of Hearing Loss Do I Have?
Hearing loss affects an estimated 15% of U.S. adults, but not every case is the same. There are three types of hearing loss:
- Sensorineural: stemming from inner ear damage
- Conductive: stemming from blockages or damage in the middle ear
- Mixed: a combination of sensorineural and conductive
Your specialist will further classify your hearing loss in terms of how loud a sound needs to be for you to hear it:
- Mild: 26 to 40 dB
- Moderate: 41 to 55 dB
- Moderately severe: 56 to 70 dB
- Severe: 71 to 90 dB
- Profound: 91+ dB
Your type and degree of hearing loss will determine which treatment is best for you. For example, if you have moderate hearing loss in the inner ear, hearing aids are typically the best option.
Question #2: Do I Have Hearing Loss in Both Ears?
Hearing loss doesn’t always affect both ears equally. If one ear suffered physical damage, for instance, hearing loss will likely be greater in that ear.
Question #3: What Are My Hearing Aid Style Options?
There are multiple styles of hearing aid, including:
- Behind-the-ear (BTE)
- Receiver-in-the-canal (RIC)
- In-the-ear (ITE)
- In-the-canal (ITC)
- Invisible-in-the-canal (IIC)
Each hearing aid style treats different degrees of hearing loss. For example, BTE devices can treat all degrees of hearing loss, but IIC styles can only address mild to moderate loss.
Different styles also offer specific features such as noise suppression, directional microphones or even fall detection.
Question #4: How Long Do Hearing Aids Last?
Hearing aids are an investment, so you’re probably wondering how long that investment will last. Your hearing specialist will provide guidance on caring for your devices and an approximate lifespan. Good care is crucial. Not cleaning your devices and accidentally dropping them in Lake Olmstead every summer will probably shorten their lifespan. Cleaning them nightly and keeping them safe from drops and splashes, on the other hand, will help ensure they work their best for years to come.
Question #5: Will I Need To Schedule More Audiology Appointments?
Hearing aids require regular servicing and, in some cases, reprogramming to meet your changing hearing profile. Because your devices require professional care, you will need to schedule service & repair appointments from time to time.
If any other questions arise before or after your audiology appointment, contact Augusta – Aiken ENT & Allergy today to speak with one of our specialists.