For those experiencing hearing loss, a hearing aid can greatly improve their quality of life. Advances in technology have resulted in a wide variety of devices designed for different types of hearing loss and lifestyles. There are several factors to consider when choosing the right hearing aid for your needs. Keep reading to learn the answers to five questions that can help you select the best hearing aid for you.

A Brief Guide to Hearing Aids

How do I know if I need hearing aids?

If you frequently need to ask people to repeat what they've said, have difficulty carrying on a conversation in a noisy environment such as a crowded restaurant, or notice the sound coming from the television or radio is hard to understand, you may be experiencing hearing loss.

Symptoms can develop gradually, making them difficult to notice at first. But eventually, they will affect your daily life. Hearing loss often causes people to withdraw from conversations and avoid social situations. If you notice these symptoms in yourself or a loved one, consider asking your audiologist if hearing aids can help. 

How do hearing aids work?

These small, battery-powered devices fit either inside or outside of your ear and consist of four parts. A microphone picks up the sounds from your environment and sends them to a computer chip that selects certain sounds to be amplified according to your type of hearing loss. The amplifier then increases those sounds before a receiver sends them into your ear. 

Can hearing aids help all types of hearing loss?

Hearing aids are effective for hearing loss caused by aging, disease, loud noises, or medication. They cannot help with conductive hearing loss, which is caused by problems in the ear canal, eardrum, or middle ear. There are, however, surgical options to correct many of these issues. Consult your audiologist to determine the cause of your hearing loss and the best treatment options for you.

What styles of hearing aids are available?

The canal style helps with mild to moderate hearing loss. They are nearly completely hidden just inside the ear canal, but their small size means they can be difficult to remove or adjust. In-the-ear styles fit inside the outer-ear. 

They are larger and more visible, but provide better hearing for those with mild to severe hearing loss. Similar to behind-the-ear styles, which use a small tube to deliver sounds into your ear canal.

Heartland Better Hearing in Elizabethtown, KY, helps customers get the devices they need to hear better. Their staff of experts is committed to total customer satisfaction and takes the time to answer all your questions. Call them today at (270) 735-9353 or visit them online to schedule your free evaluation.