During your first hearing aid fitting, your audiologist will review a lot of the day-to-day maintenance and use that you'll have to keep up with for your hearing aid. However, there are a few things you should know before your fitting to help you get the most from the appointment and your hearing aids. Here are a few things to consider discussing with your audiologist while you're there.
Ask About Testing Sound Quality
If you want to be able to monitor the sound quality of your hearing aid on your own, you should ask your audiologist for a listening tube. This will allow you to test the hearing aid for any inconsistencies in sound transmission, which will help you to determine if it needs maintenance. Your audiologist will not only be able to provide you with the listening tube, but will also be able to show you the correct manner to use it.
Ask About How Long to Wear The Hearing Aid
Depending on your situation, your audiologist may suggest that you wear your hearing aid all day from the start or perhaps work up to it gradually. You'll want to be aware that sounds will seem much louder at first, because the amplification will allow you to hear things you hadn't previously noticed. Give it time for your ears to adjust - it may seem bothersome at first. Don't be afraid to take a break and go into a quiet room for a while if need be. It's also important that you wear both devices if you have two hearing aids, because they'll work together to balance out sound.
Ask for a Battery Tester
Most hearing aid batteries will last for a few weeks before weakening, but sometimes it's hard to tell if the problems you're experiencing are due to battery issues or other problems. A battery tester will allow you to check the strength of your battery to replace it when needed and avoid the embarrassment of a dead battery in the midst of an important conversation.
The adjustment process can take some time when you get new hearing aids, but taking control of your hearing aid care can help. With these tips, you'll be able to monitor the hearing aids, the batteries and your own adjustment while you're getting used to them. If you have any other questions or concerns about your hearing aids, talk with your audiologist during the initial fitting appointment. This gives you plenty of time to address any problems.
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22 February 2016
When was the last time you went to an optometrist? If you are like most people, you only go when your glasses break or you run out of contact lenses. Very few people actually follow the guidelines of having their eyes checked each year. Not sure why it is necessary to visit your optometrist each year? You can learn all about the different exams and tests that your optometrist runs and why they are done. Knowing what can go wrong with your eyes and what can be done if the ailments are detected early could help to encourage you to get to the optometrist more often.
