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If you have been diagnosed with hearing loss, learning to navigate it effectively is crucial to your quality of life moving forward. For many patients, one of the primary tools to help is a hearing aid. However, most insurance plans don’t cover costs, so know what your options are in advance. The key is to speak to the right hearing center and audiologist. When you get the right support, your chances of hearing better increase. Here are some basic hearing aid facts to get you started.
There Are Different Types Available
The first and most important thing to know is that there are various types of hearing aids, some of which would be better suited to your specific needs. The types of hearing aids are most commonly referred to as behind-the-ear, in-the-ear, and in-the-canal. Behind-the-ear devices tend to be larger and more visible but are better suited for those who might not have the manual dexterity to manage a smaller device. They also have more sound amplification power. In-the-ear devices are smaller and more discrete but also have smaller batteries. The in-the-canal version is the most discrete of all but is typically only suitable for people with mild to moderate levels of hearing loss.
There Are Multiple Features
I encourage you to know all the hearing aid facts before making any purchases. Aside from the different sizes and types, know there are multiple features. Learn more about some of the most popular hearing aid features, such as noise reduction, which can include specific types like wind noise reduction. This feature can be effective for those who work or spend time outdoors. A directional mic is a feature that can help you effectively hear and communicate with others. Bluetooth connection features allow you to connect your hearing aid to digital devices like smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smart TVs.
They Take Time to Get Used To
When you first put in your hearing aid device, you might be surprised by how profound the effect can be. It’s no exaggeration to say they are life-changing. However, it can also be overwhelming and drain you physically and emotionally. As such, most hearing instrument professionals and audiologists recommend getting used to them.
A hearing aid plan might start with wearing it only for a short portion of the day, then increasing wear time gradually. It might also include only wearing them in quiet environments or while alone at first. As you get used to wearing your hearing aid, you can practice going into noisier environments or talking with more people. Don’t be worried if it’s taking you a while to get used to them, this happens to most patients.
They Require Daily Care
Although the technology is improving to make them more resilient, hearing aids are still complex and delicate pieces of technology. As such, avoid dropping them and invest time to care for your hearing aid. Learn more about daily hearing aid care tips as you can, but know the basics before you start using them. Knowing how to clean them properly, as well as storage options are two vital pieces of information. It’s also vital to keep them out of moist environments such as the shower unless you’re certain they are waterproof.
Your Hearing Health Care Doesn’t Stop
Though hearing aids make your life better and can solve many issues, your ear and hearing health still need attention. Schedule future hearing tests and follow-ups with your audiologist or hearing health professional regularly. Not only can routine appointments make it easier to address problems with your new devices, but they also help your doctor identify any worsening issues.
The hearing aid that you select and how you use it largely depends on your needs and your hearing health condition. Hopefully, the tips above give you some idea of what to expect and what will be required of you.
**** This post is strictly informational and is not meant to replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Women’s lifelink, its owners, administrators, contributors, affiliates, vendors, authors, and editors do not claim that this information will diagnose, treat, or improve any condition or disease.
