After getting your hearing tested, the doctor may recommend getting hearing aids to improve your hearing and overall quality of life. In our recent article, readers learned about cochlear implants. Today, we are here to share about hearing aids and hearing aid adjustments.
Cochlear implants:
When hearing aids are not exactly what a patient needs, cochlear implants come into the discussion. It is a more invasive option than the classic hearing aids you see on someone’s ear. The implant stimulates the auditory nerve directly with electrical currents.
It does not heal the injured hair cells but, the implant bypasses the injured hair cells. The implant provides valuable information that can improve one’s speech perception. It can also improve the patient’s speech as well because they can clearly hear themselves speak and even have the opportunity to work with a speech therapist to further improve their own speech.
Trouble hearing and COVID masks:
As we mentioned last week, many people looked into hearing testing because of the new challenge of deciphering what others are saying behind masks- sometimes two masks. Hearing someone speak in a drive-though or behind plexiglass also presented challenges to people that did not notice hearing challenges before. It took many people by surprise when they realized how much they depend on seeing people’s mouths during conversations.
If this challenge is personally relatable, make an appointment for a thorough exam at our Orlando Hearing Center. Our team will do typical examinations and tests to get a clear idea of your hearing capabilities.
Hearing aid adjustments:
For those that seem to have hearing loss or challenges, hearing aids can offer a tremendous benefit. At Orlando ENT Hearing Center, all patients receive a thirty day trial period when they purchase new hearing aids. This valuable period of time allows patients to achieve the perfect hearing aid fit and amplification.
During that time, our team asks patients to visit our office at least three times to make adjustments. After the thirty day trail period, the doctors ask patients to schedule follow-up visits every six months. Of course, patients can come sooner than that if any concerns arise.
As with any health maintenance routine, regularly scheduled visits to your audiologist is a necessity. Our practice recommends having a visit planned for every six months because earwax can accumulate more quickly when using hearing aids.
These nicely spaced out visits are a great opportunity to have the wax removed. Once a year, it is also recommended to come in for a hearing evaluation.
Next week, we will share the proper ways patients can care for hearing aids. Maintain your hearing aids as they provide you with more than just hearing! Make a call if your hearing aids are not offering sufficient aid or need adjustment.
Staff Writer
