Hearing loss is a condition regularly experienced by millions of Americans. It has a variety of causes ranging from head trauma, aging, loud noises, genetics and illness. Thankfully, hearing aids have proven to be a great solution for managing hearing loss and audiologists are on hand to implement the fitting process. This guide will take you through what to expect before and during the fitting.

Before the Fitting

Your audiologist will perform a comprehensive hearing test to examine the softest sounds you can hear at various pitches before the fitting can take place. Then, the audiologist will detail any findings and record sound volume, which is disturbingly loud. These two tests will help the audiologist figure out how beneficial the hearing needs to amplify softer sounds for your audibility. This means uncomfortably loud sound can be compressed for a more seamless hearing when the aid is fitted.

What You Should Know Ahead of the Fitting Appointment

There are various hearing aids styles available. The differences are based on the technology level used. However, with the present advancements, things are regularly changing. Fortunately, your audiologists will discuss the various choices accessible to you to make an informed decision regarding what suits you best. You may select from different hearing aid styles, including:

  • In the ear (ITE): ITE are one of the most extensive hearing aids designed to sit in the outer bowl comfortably. Advantages of ITE include better fit, simple and convenient design, high audibility and sound quality and easier to conceal.
  • Behind the ear (BTE): This is the hearing aid type you wear outside your outer ear. It features a small tube that routes sound into the ear canal. They come in various sizes, shapes and color options, which means you can find one to match your skin or hair tone.
  • In the canal (ITC): ITC sits in the canal, making them agreeable and straightforward to use. ITC size permits it to have extra highlights like directional mouthpieces for improved understanding even in loud conditions and manual controls, similar to a volume wheel.

Other hearing aid types include invisible in canal (IIC) and completely in canal (CIC), which are best fit for mild to moderate hearing loss.

The Fitting

Generally, a fitting requires an hour or two at most. The appointment covers how to utilize the hearing aids, place and remove them from the ear and maintain maintenance. You don't need to stress over the fitting since your audiologist will configure your devices based on your hearing tests. As there is a great deal of information to take in, it is best to request written directions or make personal notes to remember easily.

The reason behind what may seem a rather long appointment is to enable your audiologist to get enough time to correctly fit your hearing aids using the proper settings while offering tips for extended device usage. This way, you can learn a few things, such as adjusting your device volume if your device isn't automated.