FAQs about Hearing Aids

Do you need a hearing aid? Hearing loss can have a big impact on your life, from your relationships to your career and well-being. HearingHearing-Aid aids are small electronic devices that are designed to improve your hearing. Giulio Cavalli Medical, which is located in Pittsfield, MA, offers treatments for hearing loss. Read on to get answers to frequently asked questions about hearing aids.

What is a hearing aid?

Hearing aids are small devices that you wear behind or in your ear. They make sounds louder so that people with a hearing impairment can listen, communicate, and participate fully in their daily activities. Hearing aids can help patients hear more in both noisy and quiet situations. Hearing aids do not prevent the progression of hearing loss over time. Your ENT doctor in Pittsfield can help you make an appropriate choice based on your degree of hearing loss, the shape of your outer ear, the shape and size of the ear canal, and any special features you need.

How do I know if I need one?

Firstly, you need to figure out if hearing loss is affecting your daily life. Your family members may have noticed you're not hearing as well as you did in the past. If you're having trouble communicating and keeping up with your regular lifestyle, this can have an impact on your decision. A medical exam is required before purchasing a hearing aid. Your doctor can test your hearing to determine if you have a hearing impairment and, if necessary, work with you on options that may help you. The test will assess how well you hear and your ability to understand words.

What types of hearing aids are available?

Several different types of hearing aids are available from tiny completely in-the-canal models to behind the ear hearing aids. Each style has specific performance characteristics that will be taken into consideration when you receive a recommendation. The smallest hearing instruments are not the right choice for everybody, nor does everybody need the most powerful type of hearing aid. If you have questions about which style is right for you, your doctor can explain the pros and cons of each style.

What is the best kind of hearing aid?

ENT doctors work with different hearing aid suppliers and offer a variety of styles. Your doctor will work closely with you to choose the best hearing instrument for your needs. There is no one best type of hearing aid. Your doctor can explain the different types of hearing instruments to you, and will select the type of hearing instruments most closely matched to your hearing loss, the anatomy of your ear and your lifestyle. All of these things must be considered in order to make the right recommendation for you.

How long will my hearing aid last?

The life of a hearing aid is about 5-7 years. Depending on the style, some may last longer. Many hearing aids are still functioning well after 7 years, while others may need repairs or a tuneup. After several years, hearing aids start to get worn out and will not function as well as you need them to function. Hearing aid technology is changing quickly, so think of it as upgrading your old hearing aid every few years for the latest and best model. Wearing an old hearing aid might cause you to miss important advancements in hearing technology.

How do I care for my hearing aid?

Always handle your hearing aids with care. Store your hearing aids in a safe, dry place away from kids and pets. Turn off the hearing aids when you're not using them. Periodically clean the battery contacts and remove any debris or earwax with a cloth. Don’t wear your hearing aids while swimming or in the shower. Batteries should be replaced on a regular basis. Schedule routine checkups with your ENT doctor for professional cleanings.

How long will it take to get used to one?

The length of time it takes to adapt to hearing instruments depends on how quickly you address your hearing loss. Research has shown that most patients can adjust to hearing instruments within one month with regular use. The longer you wait to get a hearing aid, the longer it will take your brain to make sense of the new sounds that are heard. It's important to wear your hearing aids on a regular basis so that you can adapt more quickly and more completely.

If you need a hearing aid, why wait? We can help you today! Call Giulio Cavalli Medical at (413) 443-6116‎ today to schedule an appointment for a hearing test in Pittsfield, MA. Hearing aids have improved the lives of millions of people. And they will do the same for you! We want you to live your best life possible!