Hearing Aid Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a hearing aid?
1. A Hearing Aid is an electroacoustic device which typically fits in or behind the wearer's ear, and is designed to amplify and modulate sound. Earlier devices, known as an 'ear trumpet' or 'aid hearing' were cones designed to collect sound energy into the ear canal. Similar devices include the bone anchored hearing aid and the cochlear implant.
2. How common is hearing loss?
You might be surprised to know that just short of 9 million people in the UK suffer some form of hearing loss, of those around 6.5 million are over the age of 60, with quite a sizeable percentage younger. Over 70% of the population over the age of 70 have at least a degree of hearing loss. It is believed that around 4 million people in this country could benefit from wearing hearing aids but have not yet done anything about it! An astounding set of facts
3. Can I wear my hearing aid when I'm asleep?
In general no, but it is possible to "nod off" in the chair whilst watching TV without too much problem. It is better when you climb into bed (or before the shower/bath) to remove your hearing aids. Your hearing aids are better left open when not wearing them to allow any moisture built up during the day evaporate overnight.
4. My new hearing aid fits well but sounds "tinny" or "bassy" Why?
Often this is because hearing aids are helping you to hear types of sounds at levels you have not heard for a long time and it takes time for your hearing and brain to get used to hearing differently. Quite often we tone down the response of hearing aids initially to give you time to get used to them, and at a later date adjust the response closer to the optimum level to give best benefit. It can often be a matter of choice and persistence.
5. How do I know when the battery is flat?
Hearing aid batteries are designed specifically to run at full output and then stop working pretty much instantly, unlike a torch battery that gradually grows dimmer. All our digital hearing aids have a useful feature that gives you an audible tone to let you know when the battery is nearly spent. For a small charge we can also supply a battery tester so you can see for yourself how much power a battery has left. Speak to our accessories department.
6. Can I get a hearing aid on the NHS?
The NHS now offers high quality digital hearing aids and at HearingDirect.com we have no problem with recommending this free service. The limitation is that there is often a considerable delay in being able to get an NHS hearing aid – waiting times vary however, all audiology departments are now meeting the 18 week Government target for issuing new hearing aids. Most people find it inconvenient to have to visit a hospital
7. Can I wear glasses with my hearing aid?
Yes. There should be no problem with wearing glasses with HearingDirect.com’s hearing aids. Just exercise a little more care when taking your glasses off.
8. How do I know if I am experiencing hearing loss?
Some symptoms of hearing loss include: problems hearing in crowds, difficulty with female or children's voices, thinking people mumble, having to ask people to repeat, turning the television up louder than other people do, and family members telling you that you have a hearing problem. If you think you have a hearing loss, ask a family member if they have noticed you having difficulty and schedule a hearing evaluation.
9. Why should I correct a hearing loss?
If you think you have a hearing loss, the best thing you can do for yourself and those around you, is to have a hearing evaluation to see if you are a candidate for hearing aids. You may not know what you are missing if you never give hearing aids a try. Better hearing makes listening less stressful and can improve relationships with friends and family.
10. Where should I go for hearing help?
If you suspect you have a hearing loss, you should speak with your doctor. More than likely, your doctor will recommend a hearing evaluation by a licensed hearing health care professional. The hearing evaluation will help determine where your hearing loss is and what would be your best options for help. If you need assistance in finding a local hearing health care professional, you can email us at info@earhearingaid.co.uk or complete the form below.
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