Getting used to wearing a hearing aid takes time as our ears and brain need to adapt to it and learn how to hear again. Meanwhile, new users inevitably have some doubts and questions on how their new device works or how to clean and maintain it.
Frequently asked questions about hearing aids
This article is a beginner’s guide to hearing aids and aims to answer some of the most frequent doubts on these hearing devices:
How do hearing aids work?
The microphone in the hearing aid picks up voices and sounds and converts them into an electric signal that is transmitted to the processor, which is capable of amplifying them according to each patient’s specific needs and level of hearing loss. Then, the hearing aid receiver converts the amplified electric signal into an acoustic signal and transmits it to the ear canal.
What is the difference between a hearing aid and an amplifier?
According to the AEMPS (Spanish Agency of Medicines and Medical Devices), sound amplifiers are electronic devices that simply boost or amplify background noise and are not designed for people with hearing loss. On the other hand, hearing aids are specific medical devices that amplify and process sounds to compensate for hearing impairment.
Photo credit: Northern Virginia Magazine
How are hearing aids cleaned?
A hearing aid is comprised of several parts, the majority of which require regular cleaning with a soft, dry cloth. We recommend avoiding contact with water, excessive humidity and sources of direct heat. Never use chemical products, such as strong detergents, dissolvents or alcohol, on your hearing aid. To keep the device in optimum condition, it is important that it undergoes regular maintenance services at your local hearing centre.
Why do I need two hearing aids?
Although many people think it is normal to use a hearing aid in one ear, hearing loss commonly occurs in both. Therefore, your hearing aid specialist is likely to recommend the use of two hearing aids to restore stereophonic hearing. This type of binaural hearing aid restores a wider, more natural hearing range.
How do I adjust the volume on my hearing aids?
The volume on your hearing aid adjusts automatically. The level of amplification depends on the individual’s hearing loss, and every device amplifies quieter sounds more than loud sounds. However, some models also feature manual volume control.
What are the different types of hearing aids?
Not long ago, we posted an article on our blog about when it is time to have a hearing aid fitted and the types of hearing aid available. Your hearing aid specialist will advise you on the functions and features of the different types of hearing aid and will recommend the one that best suits your specific needs.
Can I use a mobile phone if I am wearing a hearing aid?
Yes. Thanks to the IoMT and wireless hearing aids, telephones and television sets can be heard directly through hearing aids.
Can I wear my hearing aid in the shower?
As we mentioned above, this is NOT advisable. Your hearing aid is an electrical device, so any water or moisture it comes into contact with can damage its internal circuits.
How can I repair my hearing aid?
The best option is to visit your local hearing center and request technical support from a hearing aid specialist. Never try to repair your hearing aid yourself – it is a complex technological device and contains delicate precision components.
Do you have any more questions about hearing aids? Leave us a comment below and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. Thanks for reading! 🙂
My dad lost his hearing when he got into a car accident, which is why we’re currently looking for a hearing aid that he may use. It’s interesting to learn that the microphone in the hearing aid is capable of converting the sound into an electric signal. Thank you for also elaborating here that the devices must not be cleaned with harmful chemicals.
Thank you for your commment, Rachel.
These are some great idea about faqs and tips on hearing aids that you have discussed here. I really loved it and thank you very much for sharing this with us. You have a great visualization and you have really presented this content in a really good manner.
Thank you for your comment. Best regards.
It’s great that you talked about hearing aids and how they come in different designs. Recently, my mom said she’s worried about my grandmother’s hearing. My mom said she might need to get hearing aids to improve her sound range, so I’ll be sure to share your guide with her. Thanks for the advice on looking for a professional to help you find the right hearing aids for your requirements!
Thank you so much for your kind comment and for sharing your experience with us. Hoping this article would be useful for your mother too.
My sister would like to consult with an audiologist that will offer a hearing aid since she can no longer hear properly. Thank you for sharing here as well the importance of regular cleaning. I also agree with you that it would be smarter to always consult with a hearing aid specialist.
Thank you, Rachel, for sharing your sister’s experience with us. Yes, that’s why we always recommend visiting an specialist to diagnose each case!
My dad just got his first hearing aid. He loves how it has helped him in conversations since that was his biggest concern with not being able to hear. I will be sure to tell him about the wireless hearing aids that can go through telephones and television sets and right into the hearing aid itself. Thank you for that information.
Thank you so much, Vivian! For sharing your father’s experience with us! 🙂
It’s interesting to know that hearing aids convert voices and sounds into electric signals that would help a patient depending on their needs. I just wanted to know about this since my grandmother would need it now. It’s because she hasn’t been able to hear us calling her even if we are just one meter apart.
Thank you for contribution response! We really appreciate it 🙂
Thank you for sharing valuable information about hearing aids. I was looking for similar information. Over the years, many hearing aids have improved. Gradually hearing aids are moving in the direction of modernity. I know MEDca Hearing is offering best hearing aids, my older brother is using it.
Thank you for your feedback, Natalie! We really appreciate your words.
My grandmother has started showing signs of issues with her hearing for the past months now. So my mom plans to get her checked and buy the equipment needed if it is recommended for her. It really helped when you said that the device would have to be cleaned with a soft, dry cloth and not use chemicals to keep it working well. We should keep that in mind to ensure that there will be reduced needs for hearing aids repair.
Good morning, Millie! Thank you so much for your comment. Yes, it is very useful to understand the functioning and been informed before buying any hearing aids.
My husband and I are looking for a hearing aid company that can aid our son’s hearing impairment; Im glad I came across your article and read things to consider when choosing one.
I like how you mentioned the difference between a hearing aid to an amplifier, such as complex medical instruments that boost and process sound to compensate for hearing impairment.
Thank you for talking about this topic; I’ll be sure to show this to my partner and see how this can help us with our son’s hearing aid.
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Thank you so much for your feedback, Bella! We really hope you will find the right hearing aid for your son.
Hi,
Your blog is very important, the information given by you is very beneficial. Keep making blogs like this.
Thank you so much for your kind words, Daniel!
This is a fantastic resource for anyone looking to learn more about hearing aids. The FAQ section provides clear and concise answers to common questions, making it easy for someone with limited knowledge to understand the basics. The tips section is also incredibly useful, offering practical advice for those considering purchasing a hearing aid. I appreciate the thoroughness of this blog post and the effort put into making this information accessible to everyone. Thank you for sharing!
Thank you so much for your kind feedback!
You made a good point when you discussed that a soft, dry cloth must be used when cleaning hearing aids. My friend wants to improve his hearing. I should advise him to turn to a clinic that provides hearing aids tailored to his needs.
Absolutely Victoria, recommending a specialized clinic for tailored hearing aids is a wise step towards enhancing your friend’s hearing experience.
This post is a must-read for anyone looking to delve deeper into this. Thanks for the in-depth coverage.
Thank you so much for the feedback! 🙂