When Should You See a Hearing Instrument Specialist?

When you begin to experience hearing loss, it may feel as though you’re living in isolation, as communicating with others, even close relations can be challenging. Hearing loss isn’t sudden and could take several years before becoming so evident. A US standard hearing examination survey has proposed that one in every eight people aged 12 and above experience hearing loss in both ears.

This presents a barrier in their daily lives, which means you’ll have to seek help sooner to enhance and improve your life quality.  In this situation, you need to see a hearing instrument specialist (HIS).

Before we proceed, what is a hearing instrument specialist (HIS)?

A hearing instrument specialist makes hearing instrument recommendations based on a hearing test to determine the ideal device suitable for your specific hearing needs. With numerous hearing devices available on the market, it will take expert knowledge and experience to find the right device for you. Here are the main reasons you may need to consult a hearing instrument specialist:

When you experience signs of hearing loss

For seniors concerned with their hearing or experiencing signs of hearing loss, it’s vital to visit the hearing instrument specialist to address it immediately. There are so many signs, including difficulty in making or understanding conversation and the constant need to increase your radio or TV set volume.

You may likewise be aware of your hearing issues or have been prompted by your primary healthcare service to consult a HIS. These professionals are expertly trained to help you find the right device for your specific hearing needs.

Other hearing loss signs include:

• Stifling speech and sounds
• Difficulty understanding words in crowd or background sounds.
• Withdrawal from conversations and avoidance of social settings.
• Constantly asking others to repeat what they said.

When you need a hearing aid

A visit to your hearing instrument specialist will determine whether you need a hearing aid or not, depending on how advanced your hearing loss may be. With extensive knowledge and expertise on the various models and producers, they can help you track down the ideal hearing instrument for your particular needs. Visiting your HIS as soon as possible is crucial to preventing further damage to your hearing. You need to do so immediately you notice any signs of hearing loss.

When your hearing aid needs repairs

Hearing loss is not a single explicit condition; it comes in class ranges from mild to moderate and then severe. Hearing loss is gradual and progressively turns worse over the long haul due to age and exposure to loud sounds. If you have a hearing aid yet notice your hearing is getting worse, you may need an adjustment to what you’re currently using. 

Is your hearing aid malfunctioning or damaged? Your hearing aid specialist will have a good look, assess it and assist you in fixing it. Although HIS may not fix every one of your issues, they’re best equipped with knowledge of a wide range of device fixings. Assuming there’s an issue they can’t fix, your hearing instrument specialist will reach out to the manufacturer, who may offer a temporary replacement until repairs are completed.  

When you need hearing aid fitting

In case you’re wearing a hearing instrument for the first time, it may take a while before you get used to it. You may require some time before your brain gets used to information moving into your ear and identifying it as sound. Sound can appear distorted, and your own voice can sound harsh in your larynx. Your hearing instrument specialist can make your instruments as comfortable and cozy as possible and make it to get used to wearing them.

When you need some advice on your hearing aid

After getting your first hearing aid fitted by your hearing instrument specialist, you’ll be given a detailed explanation of the hearing instrument, how it functions and how to maintain it. The specialist may offer advice to any individual who’s experiencing issues with their instrument.

Also, HIS are expertly trained to offer many insights on methods to maintain your instrument for long use. Additionally, they provide convenient communication tips to help individuals experiencing hearing loss interact with their loved ones. Your specialist may likewise guide you to find support groups and services you may find helpful.

If you think you’re experiencing hearing loss and need to see a hearing instrument specialist, contact Better Hearing of Madison County today at (315) 693-3637 for hearing tests, hearing aid repairs, hearing aid fittings and maintenance.