How do I know if I have hearing loss?
Hearing loss occurs to most people as they age.
Hearing loss can be due to aging, exposure to loud noise, medications,
infections, head or ear trauma, congenital or hereditary factors,
disease, and some other causes. The vast majority of hearing problems
do not require medical or surgical intervention. Hearing instruments
can correct 90 to 95 percent of all hearing loss cases.
There are roughly 31.5 million people in the U.S. (as of 2005)
that have experienced hearing loss. Approximately one third of individuals
over 75 years have experienced significant hearing loss, and 14
percent of all people 45 to 64 have demonstrable hearing loss. Hearing
loss impacts one’s quality of life and breaks down personal
relationships. Those suffering from hearing loss can become isolated
by their inability to effectively communicate. For these reasons
it is important that someone experiencing hearing loss see a hearing
specialist.
You may be experiencing the effects of hearing loss if...
- You can hear people speaking but strain to understand their
words
- You frequently ask people to repeat what they just said
- You don’t laugh at jokes because you missed the story
or the punchline
- You frequently find yourself complaining that people mumble
- You ask others about details of a meeting you just attended
- Loved ones have commented on the volume you may listen to the
radio or TV at
- You cannot hear the doorbell or telephone
- You find that when people look directly at you while speaking
that it is easier to understand
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should
visit one of Southwestern Hearing Centers for a free hearing test.
It is not just a listening test, as you may have already completed
at some time. This test allows the hearing instrument specialist
to determine exactly how much hearing loss is present. They can
determine how well you understand speech and how well you can hear
it in both silent and noisy environments. The H.I.S. also learns
about your case history and performs a visual assessment of the
ear canal and eardrum.
To schedule a free hearing test with Southwestern Hearing Centers
please call 1-888-639-8665.
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What
kinds of hearing instrument styles are there?
There are many styles of hearing aids. The most common styles are
listed below:
Over The
Ear (OTE)
The OTE hearing instrument conceals the batteries and microphone
components in a slim and modest casing located behind your ear.
The small receiver is hidden inside the ear and connected to the
OTE component by a clear tube that is nearly invisible to the eye.
The new OTE model, the VOZ hearing instrument, is the most well
concealed and advanced technology on the market.
Completely
in the Canal (CIC)
The CIC is the smallest custom hearing instrument available. It
fits deeply in the canal, nearly invisible to the eye. It has a
small removable cord that remains attached to the instrument to
assist you when removing it from the ear. This model is the most
cosmetically appealing because it is nearly invisible.
In The Ear
(ITE)
The ITE device is a custom fit instrument that fits entirely in
the ear. ITE models are comfortable, easy to handle and operate,
and are the largest sized custom fit products.
In The Canal
(ITC)
This model is a custom fit hearing instrument that fits primarily
into the ear canal. It is custom fit to your ear, but is small than
the ITE model – which makes it slightly harder to handle.
Behind The
Ear (BTE)
The electronic components of a BTE hearing instrument are concealed
in a slim casing that fits behind the ear. At the top of the instrument,
several microphones are located to pick up sound. An ear mold is
fit into the ear, and is attached to the hearing instrument by a
thin and clear tube that holds the device in place. The BTE hearing
instrument option is the largest in size.
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What
types of hearing instrument technology are available?
Analog technology has been around for decades, but offers limited
capability. Digital technology is the most sophisticated hearing
instrument technology. With digital technology, a hearing instrument
specialist can control the sound quality and characteristics of
how the instrument processes sound. Your hearing instrument needs
are unique to you, and you should speak with an H.I.S. to decide
what type of technology fits your
needs.
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What
can I expect once I get a hearing instrument?
It takes time to get accustomed to your new hearing
instrument. People learn and adapt at different rates. Generally,
most patients are adjusted to their new hearing instrument within
the first 30 days. That’s why Southwestern Hearing Centers
offers a 30-day risk free trial on all hearing instruments.
A good plan for getting used to your new way of hearing…
- Wear your hearing instrument for a few hours on the first day
and gradually increase the time you wear it over the next few
days until you work up to a full day.
- Start out with one-on-one conversations. Do not test your new
hearing instruments out in the beginning by submersing yourself
in a loud environment. It will be difficult to adapt to the setting
with only a few days of experience.
- Wear your hearing instruments around your home to begin
- Wear them only as long as you feel comfortable
- Do not feel frustrated if you do not catch every word in a
conversation right away
- Practice listening for where sounds are coming from
- Gradually try new situations
- Take part in aural rehabilitation organized courses if they
are available
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What
are ear impressions?
All custom made hearing instruments are made from a “cast”,
or impression, of the ear. This ear impression can be made in the
office in about 10 to 15 minutes. The audiologist simply places
a special cotton or foam dam in the ear canal to protect the eardrum,
and then places a waxy material in the ear canal. When this wax
hardens (5-10 minutes later) the wax impression and the dam are
removed from the ear. Sometimes the ear canal will be oily after
the impression is removed. This is entirely normal.
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What
are digital hearing instruments?
Digital technology is the most sophisticated hearing instrument
technology. With digital technology, the hearing specialist can
control the sound quality and characteristics of how the instrument
processes sound. The digital hearing instrument is like a tiny computer
that receives, processes, and stores sound information at an incredibly
fast pace. Additionally, they minimize amplification of background
sounds you don’t want to hear. Digital technology is undoubtedly
the most advanced and effective type of hearing instrument, but
your hearing needs are unique and you should consult an audiologist
before making your decision on a hearing instrument.
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Why
does my voice sound funny now that I use a hearing instrument?
It is common among first time hearing instrument users to notice
your voice sounds a little funny. The way you hear your voice may
be described as feeling “plugged up” or hearing your
voice echo. This is normal and will likely go away after a few days
of getting accustomed to wearing the hearing instrument and learning
how to adjust the volume controls. If you continue to be uncomfortable
after several days, visit your hearing specialist to discuss further
how to relieve these symptoms.
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How
are my hearing AND my vision related to effectively communicating?
To communicate as normal you need to hear from both ears and use
both your eyes and ears together. You cannot communicate effectively
with only your hearing instruments. By paying attention to your
speakers’ facial expressions, remaining in good visual environment
(good distance and lighting to your speaker), and paying attention
you will communicate with great effectiveness. Remember, that even
with hearing instruments, sometimes it is hard to hear when in a
difficult environment.
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Binaural
Hearing Instruments? Do I really need two hearing instruments?
You have two ears and your body uses them both to hear. When you
experience hearing loss typically both ears are affected, and that’s
why most patients need both ears fitted with hearing instruments.
To determine what is best for you and your unique hearing needs,
call 1-888-639-8665 for a FREE hearing test.
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How do I attain
the best physical fit of my hearing instruments?
A major concern with new hearing instruments is
the physical fit. They should be comfortable and fit the natural
shape of your ear. That means not too loose and not too tight. You
should not wear your hearing instrument if they cause discomfort
or irritation. If you experience discomfort you should call your
hearing specialist for an immediate visit.
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What
is "background noise" and how can I learn to deal with
it?
All patients wearing hearing instruments often
become annoyed by background noise. It can be hard to get used to
when you begin wearing hearing instruments. There is no way to completely
eliminate background noise, even without hearing instruments –
background noise can become a nuisance.
However, with advancing technology background noise can be greatly
minimized. Many digital models have the capabilities to help reduce
noise and help make it more tolerable. If background noise is bothering
you, speak to your hearing specialist to learn about what options
are available and best to fit your hearing needs.
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How
should I care for and maintain my hearing instruments?
More than 75 percent of hearing instrument repairs
are due to moisture and earwax build up in the instrument. Careful
and frequent cleaning of the hearing instrument can prevent most
of these repairs. By wiping and brushing off the instrument each
time you remove it, you can prevent the need for repair. There are
products available such as electronic dry-aid kits that are effective
in killing germs. If you remember to clean your hearing instruments
each night, you could lengthen its life of use by years.
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What
should I know about hearing instrument batteries?
If you use your hearing aid on a typical 16-hour
day cycle your batteries should last 7-14 days. Hearing instrument
batteries are inexpensive and cost less than a dollar each. The
smaller the battery size means the shorter the battery life.
Standard Hearing Instrument Battery Sizes:
- Size 5 (Red)
- Size 10 or 230 (Yellow)
- Size 13 (Orange)
- Size 312 (Brown)
- Size 675 (Blue)
Hearing instrument batteries remain inactive until you receive
them and remove the factory sticker. Once the sticker is removed,
the battery is activated. Make sure to keep your batteries in a
cool and dry place.
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What
are Assistive Listening Devices (ALD)?
You may have hearing needs that can be best solved
with other devices other than a hearing instrument. Assistive Listening
Devices are alerting devices that help increase the volume of a
desired sound. They can make the volume louder on a TV or radio,
an alarm system, an alarm clock, or use a visual alert such as a
strobe light. ALDs are excellent added help to using a hearing instrument.
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Are
Assistive Listening Devices only for people with hearing instruments?
Assistive Listening Devices are for people with
all degrees of hearing loss. People with or without hearing instruments
can use them.
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What
types of Assistive Listening Devices exist?
There are many types of Assistive Listening Devices
ranging from sophisticated technology in a theatre or auditorium
to personal home systems. Some types include:
Personal Listening Systems: These systems are
designed to carry the sound from source to listener with minimized
background noise. This includes personal amplifiers, FM systems,
and auditory trainers.
TV Listening Systems: These devices are designed
for listening to TV, radio, or stereos with minimized interference
from background noise. They are helpful in ensuring a comfortable
volume level for everyone in the room.
Direct Audio Input Hearing Instruments: These
are actual hearing instruments with audio input connections (usually
wires), which can be connected directly to the source (TV, radio,
stereo, microphones, auditory trainers, personal FM systems).
Telephone Amplifying Device: These devices are
useful even with a hearing instrument. To use, you must have a hearing
instrument compatible telephone and a hearing instrument that has
a T-Coil feature. These two components communicate with one another
to allow the hearing instrument to listen at a comfortable level
without feedback or background noise. You can speak to your audiologist
to discuss if you have the proper hearing instrument.
Cell Phones: Most hearing instruments can be used
with cell phones, but digital models can create constant noise,
distortion, or feedback with a cell phone. As always, contact your
audiologist with advice on hearing instruments and cell phone usage.
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What
are bone conduction implants?
Bone conduction implants are designed for patients
with certain diagnoses. Untreatable middle ear conductive, mixed
hearing losses, unilateral sensor neural hearing loss, or single
sided deafness are among the special circumstances. Bone conduction
implants are tiny fixtures with detachable sound processors that
are surgically implanted.
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How
often do I need to change the batteries in my hearing instrument?
Batteries generally need replaced every 7-14 days.
The exact need for change really depends on your personal usage.
Most newer digital hearing instruments will beep to inform you the
battery is running low. Batteries are easy to change and take no
more than a minute or so.
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How
long do hearing instruments last?
Most hearing instruments require repair due to
dirt and debris blocking the microphones and receivers. If you maintain
proper care of your hearing instrument it can last from 5-7 years.
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Does
Medicare/Medicaid cover hearing instruments?
In general, Medicare does not cover hearing instruments,
but Medicaid supplements may cover your hearing instrument. Each
patient’s situation is different, and you should speak with
your provider representative that handles your account to determine
coverage.
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Are
hearing instruments covered by insurance?
Some insurers may cover hearing instruments. However,
your situation and personal coverage is unique to you. You should
contact your insurance company to speak with a representative to
learn about your coverage.
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What
problems might I experience while adjusting my hearing instruments?
All hearing instruments require adjustments to
fit your hearing needs. You can have your hearing instrument adjusted
in the office by a hearing specialist.
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What
questions should I ask before buying hearing instruments?
- Do I have permanent hearing loss?
- Who should I see about this?
Your hearing loss could be caused by something as minor as earwax
or infection. Only a visit to an audiologist can determine what
type of hearing loss you have, and what options are available to
you.
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How much do hearing instruments
cost?
Hearing instrument prices vary depending on your
personal needs. A pair of hearing instruments can range from $300-$5000,
but price depends on your hearing needs. To determine your final
hearing instrument costs you should schedule a FREE hearing test
and discuss your personal needs with one of our licensed hearing
specialist.
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Where
do I go to get a hearing instrument?
To schedule a hearing visit today with Southwestern
Hearing Centers simply call 1-888-639-8665. With 22 convenient locations
throughout St. Louis and Illinois, we would be happy to help you
better your hearing.
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What
can I expect from my hearing instruments?
You can expect, after you have adapted and learned
to use them (usually 30 days), to hear speech and sound with a renewed
clarity. You will be able to carry on conversation, and be more
relaxed in listening to environmental sound such as your TV.
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Do
all hearing instruments work the same way?
Not all hearing instruments work in the same way.
They work differently to provide the needed features to each listener.
The way your hearing instrument works is unique to your hearing
loss needs.
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How
can hearing instruments help me?
Hearing instruments can help you to regain the
hearing you once had. They can make speech and conversations clearer
and allow you to be more relaxed in social situations. They allow
you to listen to the TV, the radio, and speak to your loved ones
with ease and at normal volumes. Hearing instruments help you feel
at ease in your daily life, and make sure you don’t have to
worry about not hearing something.
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Are
all hearing instruments the same?
All hearing instruments differ in their technology,
price, application, and results. To ensure you get the features
that best fit you, talk to your hearing specialist about your needs.
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What
are the different styles of hearing instruments?
Generally, there are 5 basic styles of hearing
instruments.
- Over the ear (OTE)
- Behind the ear (BTE)
- In the ear (ITE)
- In the canal (ITC)
- Completely in the canal (CIC)
There are different variations of each style and your hearing professional
will work with you to decide what style is best for you based on
your needs.
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Disclaimer
Please review the provided information for yourself
or a loved one to learn more about hearing loss and the options
available to you.
All Southwestern Hearing Centers hearing tests
are conducted by an audiologist and/or licenses hearing instrument
specialist.
Southwestern Hearing Centers makes no representation about the
suitability of the information contained in the documents and related
graphics published on this server for any purpose. All such documents
and related graphics are provided "as is" without warranty
of any kind.
Southwestern Hearing Centers hereby disclaim all warranties and
conditions with regard to this information, including all implied
warranties and conditions of merchantability, fitness for a particular
purpose, title and non-infringement.
The documents and related graphics published on this server could
include technical inaccuracies or typographical errors. Changes
are periodically added to the information herein. Southwestern Hearing
Centers may make improvements and/or changes in the product(s) and/or
the program(s) described herein at any time.
Notices regarding documents and services available on this web site:
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In no event shall Southwestern Hearing Centers be liable for any
special, indirect or consequential damages or any damages whatsoever
resulting from loss of use, data or profits, whether in an action
of contract, negligence or other tortuous action, arising out of
or in connection with the use of performance of documents, provision
of or failure to provide services, or information available from
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