Over-the-counter hearing aids are now more freely available to consumers. Individuals with hearing loss can buy them in retail stores or order them online without needing to visit an audiologist beforehand for a hearing test. However, especially when using a hearing aid for the first time, many consumers have questions about them and how to use them.
Take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions about OTC hearing aids and talk with an audiologist to determine what type of device you could benefit most from.
What are OTC Hearing Aids?
OTC hearing aids are developed for people who have self-perceived, mild hearing loss. They are not designed to treat hearing loss that affects you in every situation. If you hear well generally but need a small amount of assistance to improve your communication with others, OTC hearing aids could be an ideal solution.
Although helpful, OTC hearing aids often don’t have the same level of loudness output and features that prescription hearing aids do. Prescription hearing aids need to be prescribed by an audiologist following a hearing test. There continue to be advances in OTC hearing aids as demand increases.
Should You See an Audiologist Before Getting an OTC Hearing Aid?
The short answer: yes. An audiologist is a qualified and professional hearing loss specialist who can help diagnose the problem with your hearing. The biggest problem with using OTC hearing aids is they rely on the consumer to diagnose the problem so if your hearing loss is more severe than you suspect, an OTC hearing aid may not help.
Knowing the degree of your hearing loss and the type of hearing loss will ensure you get treatment that works. Getting the right hearing aid can also help you to avoid any future damage or worsening of your hearing loss. An audiologist will be able to refer you to an otologist if you require it.
Will Your Health Insurance Cover a Hearing Test?
It’s important to check with your health insurance to see if hearing tests are covered. However, most health insurances do cover hearing tests. Once you’ve checked with your insurance provider, contact your audiologist to find out how to use your insurance at your appointment.
Can Children Use OTC Hearing Aids?
OTC hearing aids are not recommended for children. Anyone under the age of 18 with hearing difficulties should see an audiologist as soon as possible. The prescription devices given to children are created with their growth and development in mind.
Children will need to change the size of the hearing aids they use regularly because of their growth patterns. Their hearing aids also need to be programmed by a professional, using special techniques.
How Do You Choose The Right Hearing Aid?
Choosing the right hearing aid to suit your needs can be difficult without help but there are a few things you should consider when you do. It can help if there is a trial period for a hearing aid so you can test out the product and return it if it doesn’t help. You should also keep the cost in mind, especially when buying your first hearing aid.
Remember to check whether the aid you choose is covered by a warranty. Ask if the hearing aid is water proof if you want to use it in water. Hearing aids will often require devices to program them properly.
Find out if you need to have a smartphone and if you need to download a particular app. Can you use the hearing aid to accept calls or listen to music? How often will your hearing aid need charging? It’s also vital that you know where to get support when your hearing aid isn’t working properly or you need advice on using it.
Should You Use a Hearing Aid if People Need to Shout at You?
If you find yourself asking people to shout so you can hear what they’re saying, an OTC hearing aid is unlikely to suit you. It’s important to get a hearing test done to distinguish the cause of your hearing loss and get prescribed the right aid for your condition. This is so you can have a successful outcome and communicate better with those around you.
Getting the right technology is essential to your hearing health and stopping the further degradation of your hearing ability. If you’d like to make an appointment with an audiologist, you can contact us at Natural Hearing Centers by calling (888) 221-9156.
