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Frequently Asked Questions

 

 

What are the common signs of hearing loss?

Common signs include: 

  • Difficulty understanding conversations, especially in noisy environments
  •  Frequently asking people to repeat themselves.
  • Turning up the volume on the TV or radio higher than others prefer.
  • Ringing or buzzing in the ears (tinnitus).
  • Avoiding social situations due to difficulty hearing.

Common causes include:

  • Aging (presbycusis): Natural deterioration of hearing over time.
  • Noise exposure: Loud noises from work, concerts, or headphones can damage hearing.
  • Ear infections or diseases: Conditions like otosclerosis or Meniere’s disease.
  • Ototoxic medications: Some antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, and NSAIDs can affect hearing.
  • Genetic factors: Some people are predisposed to hearing loss.

It depends on the cause: 

  • Sensorineural hearing loss (nerve damage): Usually permanent but can be managed with hearing aids or cochlear implants.
  • Conductive hearing loss (blockage or damage in the ear): May be reversible with medication, surgery, or earwax removal.
  • Sudden hearing loss: Sometimes reversible if treated quickly with steroids.

You can reduce your risk by:

  • Avoiding loud noises or using ear protection in noisy environments.
  • Keeping the volume low on headphones and speakers.
  • Not inserting objects (like cotton swabs) into your ears.
  • Managing chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, which can affect hearing.
  • Getting regular hearing checkups.

Treatment depends on the severity and type of hearing loss:

  • Hearing aids: The most common solution for mild to moderate hearing loss.
  • Cochlear implants: For severe or profound hearing loss when hearing aids are ineffective.
  • Assistive listening devices: Such as amplified telephones or TV listening systems.
  • Medical or surgical interventions: For treatable conditions like ear infections or otosclerosis.
  • Communication strategies: Lip-reading and sign language can help in certain cases.
  • Tinnitus is the perception of ringing, buzzing, hissing, or other sounds in the ears without an external source. The sounds can be:
  • High-pitched or low-pitched.
  • Constant or intermittent.
  • In one or both ears.

  • Loud or soft, sometimes changing over time.

Common causes include:

  • Hearing loss: Damage to the inner ear (often from aging or noise exposure).
  • Loud noise exposure: Concerts, machinery, or headphones at high volume.
  • Ear infections or blockages: Earwax buildup or infections can trigger tinnitus.
  • Medications: Some antibiotics, NSAIDs, or chemotherapy drugs can cause tinnitus.
  • Health conditions: High blood pressure, stress, TMJ disorders, or Meniere’s disease.

It depends on the cause:

  • Temporary tinnitus (due to loud noise or medication) may fade within hours or days.
  • Chronic tinnitus (lasting longer than six months) is usually permanent but can often be managed.
  • Seeking early treatment may help reduce symptoms or prevent worsening.

You should see an audiologist if:

  • Tinnitus lasts more than a few weeks.
  • It significantly affects sleep, concentration, or daily life.
  • It is accompanied by hearing loss, dizziness, or ear pain.
  • It is only in one ear or has a sudden onset.
  • It pulses in sync with your heartbeat (pulsatile tinnitus)—this may indicate a vascular issue.

You might need a hearing aid if:

  • You struggle to hear conversations, especially in noisy places.
  • People tell you that you often ask them to repeat themselves.
  • You turn up the TV or radio louder than others prefer.
  • You feel isolated or avoid social situations due to hearing difficulties.
  • A hearing test confirms hearing loss that could benefit from amplification.

It varies from person to person, but typically:

  • Most people take a few weeks to a few months to fully adjust.
  • Your brain needs time to re-learn how to process sounds.
  • Background noise might seem overwhelming at first but improves with time.
  • Consistent use and follow-up appointments help with the adjustment process.

To keep your hearing aids working well:

  • Clean them daily with a dry, soft cloth or special hearing aid tools.
  • Store them in a dry, cool place and use a dehumidifier if needed.
  • Change or charge the batteries regularly.
  • Keep them away from water, heat, and hair products.
  • Schedule regular professional cleanings and checkups.

No, hearing aids do not cure hearing loss, but they:

  • Amplify sounds to make speech and environmental noises clearer.
  • Improve communication and quality of life.
  • Help reduce listening effort and mental fatigue.
  • Work best when worn consistently and adjusted properly.

Consider the following factors:

  • Type and severity of hearing loss: Your audiologist will recommend the best option.
  • Lifestyle needs: Active individuals may need more advanced features.
  • Technology and features: Options include noise reduction, Bluetooth connectivity, and rechargeable batteries.
  • Comfort and fit: Custom-molded or behind-the-ear styles may be better for different needs.
  • Budget and insurance: Prices vary, and some insurance plans may cover part of the cost.