subject: Tips For Selecting Aids For Hearing [print this page] Tips For Selecting Aids For Hearing Tips For Selecting Aids For Hearing
Hearing loss is worrying, and you should take action as soon as you feel you are having difficulty in this respect. Hearing aids vary in styles, so you should choose one that is appropriate for you.
Visit a hearing and balance center as soon as you feel that you are having a problem in your ears. Check that the professionals there are qualified. The center should have the latest technology to diagnose the type and severity of your hearing loss. You can choose from behind the ear, in the ear, completely in the canal, and receiver in the canal instruments. Behind the ear instruments have their circuitry and microphones located in the casing behind the ear. They are advisable if you are suffering from dexterity problems. They are durable and suitable for many kinds of hearing losses. They offer maximum power and flexibility. In the ear instruments are accommodated in the bowl of the ear. They are easier to use than other smaller hearing instruments. They can accommodate larger sound amplifiers as well as additional features such as a telephone coil. You will need to check whether the shape and size of your ear canal is large enough to accommodate this kind of an instrument. Instruments which are completely in the canal are nearly invisible when inserted properly. However, they are the most difficult to handle, so they require dexterity. A receiver in the canal separates the receiver from the processor. Only the frequencies which you are unable to hear will be improved, so you can use your remaining "normal" hearing. First, you should visit a physician who can refer you to an ear, nose, and throat specialist. Next, an audiologist should make an assessment of the degree of your hearing loss. Price should not be the only consideration for selecting aids for hearing. A substandard brand may not last you long, and then you will spend additional time and effort in getting your instrument repaired. If the quality of hearing in one ear is markedly different from that in the other ear, consider getting an instrument for only one ear. Otherwise, it is advisable to get aids for hearing in both ears.
