3 Ways a Hearing Instrument Specialist Can Help

When it comes to hearing loss, there’s no doubt in anyone’s mind that devices like hearing aids are one of the most effective ways of combating hearing loss. If you’ve already been diagnosed with hearing loss or you’re concerned about whether you might be suffering from it, a hearing instrument specialist might be just the person to help you find just the solution for you. But what, exactly do they do?

Performing hearing examinations

Before you make any big decisions, you need to know how severe, exactly, your hearing loss is. What’s more, when choosing the right device to help your hearing, you need as accurate an assessment of your current condition as possible. Your hearing instrument specialist will carry out an examination to see the extent of the damage. They will learn as much of your medical history as possible, carry out a visual exam to see if there are any obstructions such as infections, and finally perform a series of tests to gauge your hearing. This will measure your ability to hear in different tones and pitches, allowing them to better see what kind of hearing loss you have.

Helping you select and fit a hearing aid

All the information gathered from the hearing exam is used primarily to help you better understand your needs from a hearing aid. Depending on the lifestyle you lead and the severity of hearing loss, the specialist will be able to help you look at the most relevant options on the market. Whether you need something more discreet or visible, something with added features like directional microphone systems or digital noise reduction, and more. They can help you test out hearing aids before you purchase one, and then fit the option of your choice. Once it’s fitted, they will ensure it’s set at the right levels to improve your hearing as best possible and show you how to use it.

Giving the assistance and repairs you need to keep your aid operational

Your hearing instrument specialist will also call you for a follow-up appointment where they see just how much the aid is helping your hearing. If you have any trouble using it, they are your first source of assistance there, too. For instance, if you have trouble operating it, they can show you how and help you read any instructional manuals that come with the device. If it’s malfunctioning or broken, they have the tools and knowledge available to make most fixes in their own office. Even if the problem is more complicated, they can help you find a temporary replacement while waiting for parts or for a fix from the manufacturer. What’s more, they can help you learn how to better clean and maintain it in future to reduce the risk of further malfunctions.

As well as being the single foremost experts on devices to combat hearing loss, hearing instrument specialists are a font of useful information and advice that can help you further protect your hearing. Make them a long-term partner in the fight for your hearing health.