Frequently Asked questions
Ringing in the ears - What is it?
Not all people with tinnitus have a hearing loss, but a hearing test is highly recommended to determine this. Any noises heard consistently within the ears is referred to as Tinnitus. Sometimes a referral to an Ear Nose and Throat specialist is requested by the GP as well as a hearing test. This will depend on what symptoms are reported to the GP by the patient.
Why do hearing aids whistle? My Grandmother’s used to all the time!
Whistling in hearing aids is called feedback, and commonly occurs when a hearing aid is removed from the ear while the battery is still connected. Once the hearing aid is switched off the feedback/whistling will stop. If a hearing aid whistles whilst it is in the ear, then maybe it has not been inserted correctly, so then some sounds feedback and hence a whistle is audible. This is easily fixed by reinserting the hearing aid/mould properly. If there is wax in the ears which is occluding the ear, then the hearing aid will whistle. This is solved by visiting your GP to establish if there is in fact wax build up.
Today’s digital hearing aids have advance feedback cancellation systems so feedback is not such a common problem as it was in the older analog aids. Feedback should not be such an issue anymore.
I am embarrassed about wearing a hearing aid, can’t I wait?
A hearing loss is actually more visible than a hearing instrument, so with today’s advanced technology the sooner you begin enjoying to hear well the sooner you will be enjoying life as well. Hear it! Feel it! Live it!
FACT and FICTION
Fiction: Hearing instruments don’t work. My mother kept hers in the drawer.
Fact: The answer could be that yesterday’s products just don’t compare with today’s advanced digital hearing instruments. Effective solutions are now achievable due to the research and extensive knowledge that has changed the hearing industry.
Fiction: Having a hearing loss means that sounds are just not loud enough.
Fact: For most people voices may seem loud enough, but the high-pitched speech sounds may be too soft to hear clearly, so speech can sound muffled. Today’s hearing instruments can take such factors into account by matching the amplified sound to your individual hearing levels – they are selective for your needs.
Fiction: Hearing aids are for old people.
Fact: There are actually more hearing impaired people aged between 45-64 than in the over 65 age group. Hearing loss can have a number of psychological effects including depression, withdrawal from social gatherings, and loss of self-esteem. Postponing finding out more about your hearing will only exacerbate the problem you are hiding. The sooner help is sought the better.
Fiction: Hearing aids are far too expensive.
Fact: Having access to good quality digital technology may be more affordable than you think. The real issue is quality of life and what it’s worth to you. Remember, a hearing loss is far more noticeable to others than a hearing instrument.
