Topics Users Wonder About Before Using Hearing Aids
Hello.
In my previous writings, I have mentioned some of the prejudices of users about hearing aids and some of the major complaints during the use of hearing aids. In this text, I will address the frequently asked questions by potential users to experts before using hearing aids. I will present the questions below in the form of headings. I hope you enjoy reading it.
1- Can hearing aids cure my hearing loss?
Unfortunately, no. Hearing aids are medical devices that aim to improve the quality of life by providing users clear and high-intensity sound based on their existing hearing loss. Hearing aids do not have a curative or stopping effect on hearing loss.
2- Why is hearing aid application made to the ear that hears better?
If there is hearing loss in both ears, experts should recommend hearing aid application for both ears. However, the socioeconomic status of the user is also effective in the use of hearing aids. If economic conditions are not sufficient for users, application with a single device may be required. In this case, we aim to approach existing hearing thresholds as close to normal hearing as possible by applying the hearing aid to the ear with less hearing loss.
3- Does using a hearing aid make your ears lazy?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions I receive personally. Hearing aids keep the auditory cortex active instead of “making the ears lazy”. They also delay the onset of aging diseases such as Alzheimer’s dementia.
4- How long does it take to get used to using a hearing aid?
It is not possible to give a clear answer to this question. The adaptation period is affected by many variables, such as the user’s personal biases, the degree of hearing loss, the starting point of hearing loss and the duration of non-use of the device (auditory deprivation). Since the user will hear speech sounds and environmental noise that they are not accustomed to with the hearing aid, it is important for the specialist to inform the user about the process and to clear expectations for the user before using the device.
5- How long should I use hearing aids per day?
It is beneficial for users to use the hearing aid at all times during daily life. If there is no extra problem such as ear fungus or infection, it is appropriate to remove the hearing aid only while sleeping.
6- Does the usage of the hearing aid prevent tinnitus?
Hearing aids do not provide permanent solutions for hearing loss and tinnitus. Tinnitus can occur due to many reasons, and hearing loss is one of these reasons. With the use of a hearing aid and sufficient amount of sound transmission, the user’s tinnitus can be resolved, and for tinnitus complaints caused by different reasons other than hearing loss, certain performance-level hearing aids with tinnitus masking programs will provide relief for users.
7- Would a person using a hearing aid be considered as hearing impaired
No. Hearing aids are medical devices applied from minimal hearing losses to total hearing loss in both ears. For a person to be considered as hearing impaired, total hearing loss should be present in both ears.
8- Is the most expensive hearing aid the best hearing aid?
The best hearing aid is the one that is most suitable for a person’s needs, and price alone is not a determining factor. Before purchasing a hearing aid, it is crucial to communicate expectations to an expert and determine needs accurately.
9- Can a hearing aid cause headaches?
Hearing aids should not cause headaches. However, the use of hearing aids may create a headache or discomfort sensation in some individuals due to incorrect application. Application errors such as excessive gain of the hearing aid, disregard of various acoustic parameters such as mold or ventilation, failure of the hearing aid to suppress noise when necessary, and weightiness of the hearing aid in or behind the ear, can lead to negative outcomes such as headaches for some users.
10- Is it difficult to insert and remove hearing aid batteries, and how often do they need to be replaced?
-Inserting and removing hearing aid batteries is generally not difficult for users. Each hearing aid uses a different battery size, and there are a total of 4 types of hearing aid batteries. Behind-the-ear hearing aids typically use size 13, 312, and 675 batteries, while in-the-ear hearing aids use size 10 batteries. As the size of the hearing aid decreases, the battery size used will also decrease. Specifically, for elderly and pediatric patients using canal-in-the-ear (CIC) hearing aids, inserting batteries may be relatively more challenging in cases of limited manual dexterity.
-The battery life of a hearing aid varies depending on the battery size, the technological features used in the device, and the duration of use. Size 10 batteries typically last between 3 to 7 days, while other batteries will last for a longer period of time.
11- Can deaf people use hearing aids?
People with total hearing loss in both ears are not expected to benefit from using hearing aids.
12- How long does a hearing aid last and how often should it be replaced?
The time to replace a hearing aid depends on changes in the device’s performance and the progression of the individual’s hearing loss. If there is a significant decrease in the device’s performance or frequent malfunctions, it is recommended to replace the device. Regular cleaning and maintenance of the hearing aid will help to extend its useful life.
13- Are hearing aids waterproof?
Although hearing aids have an IP68 certification, they may still be damaged by external factors such as sweat, moisture, and water. Therefore, it is important to minimize sweating and exposure to humid environments when using hearing aids. For example, it is a good idea to remove your hearing aid while exercising or taking a shower. A moisture-absorbing tablet obtained from hearing aid centers can also protect the device from moisture.
