Frequently ASKED Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to our FAQ Page, this is where you will find the answers to the most common questions asked about hearing loss and hearing aids.
Feel free to browse through the information below. If you are unable to find the answers to your questions, please call our friendly team at Hearing Loss Specialists, where we will be more than happy to assist you.
Q: What causes hearing loss?
A: Hearing loss can be caused by ageing, noise exposure, ear infections, genetics, birth defects and certain medical conditions.
Q: Can hearing loss be reversed?
A: While some hearing loss can be temporary, like that caused by earwax build up or an infection, most hearing loss is permanent.
Whilst hearing aids cannot restore hearing to normal, having hearing aids can significantly improve your hearing and quality of life.
Q: How can I protect my hearing?
A: Protect your hearing by reducing exposure to loud noises, wearing earplugs or earmuffs in noisy environments, and getting regular hearing tests.
Q: What are the signs of hearing loss?
A: Difficulty hearing in noisy environments such as cafes and restaurants, or difficulty in group settings such as meetings. Needing to turn up the volume on the TV or radio, or having trouble understanding conversations are all signs of hearing loss.
Q. What should I do if I suspect I have hearing loss?
A. Make an appointment for a hearing test with our Hearing Aid Specialist.
Q. What is an Audiogram?
A. An audiogram is test, conducted by our hearing aid specialist that displays the type, degree, and configuration of hearing loss.
Q. What are hearing aids?
A. Hearing aids are devices that amplify sounds to improve hearing for people with a hearing loss.
Q. How do hearing aids work?
A. Hearing aids amplify sounds and send them to the ear, making it easier for the brain to process what it hears.
Q. What are the different types of hearing aids?
A. There are various styles of hearing aids, including:
- (IIC) Invisible –in-Canal
- (BTE) Behind-the-ear
- (ITE) In-the-ear
- (ITC) in-the-canal and
- (CIC)completely-in-canal
Q. How long do hearing aids last?
A. With proper care and maintenance, hearing aids typically last 5-7 years. Regular appointments are important to ensure your hearing aids are functioning and programmed properly.
Q. How often should I have my hearing aids serviced?
A. Regular check ups and servicing are important to ensure your hearing aids are functioning optimally.
Q. How do I care for my hearing aids?
A.
- Keep hearing aids away from heat and moisture.
- Clean hearing aids as instructed.
- Avoid using hairspray or other hair care products while wearing hearing aids.
- Turn off hearing aids when they are not in use by opening the battery compartment. If you have the rechargeable option, simply pop them into the charger when you are not wearing them.
- Replace dead batteries immediately.
- Store hearing aids in a dry, cool place when not in use. Such as in the hard case provided or in the charging unit if they are rechargeable hearing aids.
Q. Can I swim or shower with my hearing aids?
A. No, it is not recommended to swim or shower with hearing aids, as moisture will damage them. Hearing aids are not waterproof.
Q. Can I sleep with my hearing aids in?
A. It is not recommended to sleep with your hearing aids in as this may hurt your ears.
Q. What if my hearing aids are lost or damaged?
A. Hearing aids come with a 3 year manufacturers warranty.
However, it is highly recommended that you consider purchasing insurance to cover for loss or damage to your new hearing aids.
Q. How do I get hearing aids?
A. Consult with our hearing aid Specialist to determine if you need hearing aids and to get fitted for the right hearing aids that are made for your individual hearing loss.
Q. Are there any rebates available for hearing aids?
A. Some private health insurance plans offer rebates for hearing aids, check with yours to see if you are eligible.
Q. How long does it take to get used to hearing aids?
A. It takes time to adjust to hearing aids, and it’s important to wear them regularly to get the most benefit.
It can take a few weeks for your ears and brain to adjust to the new sounds. We strongly suggest you wear your new hearing aids every day to help your ears get used to hearing sounds more clearly.
Q. What should I do if I am having trouble adjusting to my hearing aids?
A. Contact our hearing aid specialist for advice and adjustments.
Q. Do I need two Hearing Aids?
A. In most cases, wearing two hearing aids is better than one, especially for bilateral hearing loss (hearing loss in both ears) as the brain uses information from both ears to recognize speech and locate sounds.
If you have unilateral hearing loss (hearing loss in one ear), a single hearing aid may be sufficient.
Q. How do I care for my new hearing aids?
- Keep hearing aids away from heat and moisture.
- Clean hearing aids as instructed.
- Avoid using hairspray or other hair care products while wearing hearing aids.
- Turn off hearing aids when they are not in use by opening the battery compartment. If you have the rechargeable option, simply pop them into the charger when you are not wearing them.
- Replace dead batteries immediately.
- Store hearing aids in a dry, cool place when not in use. Such as in the hard case provided or in the charging unit if they are rechargeable hearing aids.
Q. What if my hearing aids are whistling or giving feedback?
A. Make sure the hearing aids are properly inserted into your ear canal.
If the problem persists, please advise our specialist as an adjustment may be necessary.
Q. Do I need follow up care after getting hearing aids?
A. Yes, hearing loss should be managed over time, similar to vision or dental care. Follow-up visits are part of your treatment plan, and periodic adjustments may be needed to optimize performance. Your follow up visits are free of charge at Hearing Loss Specialists.
Q. What if my hearing aids need adjusting?
A. Please make an appointment with our specialist if you think your hearing aids need an adjustment. There is no charge for this service.
