Your hearing instrument specialist (HIS) is there to help you with all the questions that you might have about getting hearing aids for the first time. They can help put you at ease and enable you to understand precisely why you need hearing aids in the first place, and whether this is permanent. If you are currently preparing for an appointment with your hearing specialist, here are some important questions to ask them that may in the end benefit your treatment plan.

How do I use my hearing aids?

If you’ve never used hearing aids before, then you are unlikely to be familiar with how they work. Your HIS can provide all the information you need about how to use your hearing aids. This will allow you to get the very most from them and prevent any issues, such as accidental damage or setting them up incorrectly.

How do I clean and care for my hearing aids?

Maintaining your hearing aids is guaranteed to extend their lifespan, so it’s important to ask your HIS what they advise when it comes to cleaning. As hearing aids can be delicate, you don’t want to use something that could damage the components. Your HIS will recommend the best methods for cleaning them and preventing blockages from earwax.

They can also provide advice on how to care for them. This will include taking care of the battery, keeping your hearing aids charged, and protecting them from elemental damage, such as extreme temperatures and moisture.

What hearing aid style is right for me?

As everyone is different, there is no singular hearing aid style that suits everybody. Learning about the different styles from your HIS will help you make the best decision when it comes to choosing your hearing aids. ‘

There are three hearing aid styles that you will find. These are:

  • In the canal (ITC)
  • In the ear (ITE)
  • Behind the ear (BTE)

Your HIS can recommend a style that is most suitable for you depending on the level of your hearing loss. Although you may not be able to get the exact hearing aid you want because of performance needs or control functions, your HIS can still recommend a suitable alternative.

Can I replace my hearing aids?

Ideally, you want to pick the perfect set of hearing aids the first time, but there might be problems that you encounter after using them for a week. Ask your HIS about your options if you want to exchange your hearing aids for a different style.

Will I need hearing aids forever?

In most cases, hearing aids are something you might need to wear forever, especially with age-related hearing loss. Ask your HIS about whether you will need to wear hearing aids all the time, as they will understand the reasons behind your hearing loss and can provide a clear picture.

Like any medical professional, your HIS will be able to guide you through the range of questions that you have regarding your hearing loss. This is true regardless of the reason for your hearing loss, be it old age, illness or a simple blockage. Furthermore, if you are worried about your hearing loss, they can offer advice to put you at ease.