Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids have garnered more interest in the last few months after a government decision to make hearing aid devices more accessible to the public. While greater accessibility and convenience may seem like a win-win for hearing health, it’s important to understand the shortcomings of this technology and how they differ from a prescription hearing aid you get from your audiologist.
What are OTC Hearing Aids
Until now, hearing aids were only available with a prescription from an audiologist, but OTC hearing aids offer a different alternative to hearing improvement. These devices are more of a one-size-fits-most solution designed for individuals with self-perceived mild hearing loss over the age of 18.
Because these will now be regulated by the FDA, there are stipulations to their use. The FDA has stated that OTC hearing aids need to be a safe and effective alternative for individuals with self-perceived loss. This means the programming could be limited on some models because they want to ensure no one can wear them and potentially worsen their hearing loss.
Additionally, there will be standards available on the packaging to help prospective buyers understand who this technology is designed for and what benefits they can offer. These labels will also include additional information on wearing and using the hearing aids, as well as any potential warnings. This wording will also contain a message encouraging individuals to seek the care of a hearing professional depending on the symptoms they experience in daily life.
OTC hearing aids are recommended for people over the age of eighteen with mild to severe hearing loss; however, they are most effective for people on the milder end of the scale. If you experience sudden hearing loss, tinnitus, or dramatic changes in your hearing, an OTC device might not be the best option. In these circumstances, it’s better to visit an audiologist for testing.
What are Prescription Hearing Aids?
Prescription hearing aids are likely the technology you are most familiar with. These devices come in an array of sizes, styles and colors, allowing wearers to fully customize their listening experience. There are several different styles available, including the following three common ones:
- In the ear (ITE): ITE devices are medium-sized and sit in the outer bowl of the ear. They are suitable for people with mild-to-moderately severe hearing loss and provide an easier handling experience than smaller styles.
- Behind the ear (BTE): BTE hearing aids are worn behind the ear and connects to a small piece that rests near the canal. These devices are made for individuals with mild-to-profound hearing loss and can be loaded with a plethora of features because of their larger size.
- In the canal (ITC): ITC hearing aids are canal-worn devices that come in additional sizes, including completely in canal (CIC) and invisible in canal (IIC). Recommended for individuals with mild-to-moderate hearing loss, these are the most discreet of all technology and provide wearers with the most natural listening experience due to their location in the canal.
Once you have selected a style that is right for you, the audiologist will also discuss with you the different features your hearing aid can be equipped with. Some of the most popular options include: Bluetooth, wireless settings, remote controls, directional microphones, multisettings and feedback reduction.
Differences in Technology and Options
While OTC hearing aids can be appealing to individuals who want to try to cut costs or reduce the steps needed to get a prescription hearing aid, it’s important to consider the various perks you will be giving up if you go down this road. Yes, OTC devices provide more accessibility to technology, but these hearing aids will offer very few customization options that you need to get the best listening experience.
Additionally, because they are purchased by the individual without a professional hearing exam, they work on the assumption that you, the wearer, will be able to determine if you have a mild hearing loss. This means if you have a case of hearing loss that is more moderately severe, you will likely not benefit from the technology provided in OTC hearing aids.
Follow-up care is a critical component of hearing aid satisfaction and maintenance. When you purchase a device over the counter, you won’t have expert care to set up and program the device, make adjustments to the listening experience or properly clean and maintain the technology.
If you are looking for the most comprehensive care and custom solution to your hearing loss, consider reaching out to the team at Natural Hearing Centers by calling (888) 221-9156.
