Q: I'm having problems hearing. How can I tell if I need a hearing aid?

Ask Our Expert About Hearing Loss

About Our Experts

Thomas Koch, M.D. is an ear, nose and throat specialist at Lehigh Valley Health Network.

H. Douglas Widdowson

 is a clinical audiologist at Lehigh Valley Health Network.

• I'm having problems hearing. How can I tell if I need a hearing aid?
  
  
• What are the different types of hearing loss?
  
  
• I'm worried about how the hearing aid will look. I don't want everyone to know I have a hearing problem.
  
  
• Will I still have problems hearing when I wear a hearing aid?
  
  
• Where can I buy a hearing aid?
  
  
• Can I get a trial period to make sure it works?

Q: I'm having problems hearing. How can I tell if I need a hearing aid?

A: You need to see an ear nose and throat doctor who will test you to find out if you have an underlying illness or medical problem associated with the hearing loss. Testing determines the type and degree of hearing loss and the doctor will determine the illness or medical problem causing it.

Q: What are the different types of hearing loss?

A: There are two types. Conductive hearing loss is in the outer and middle ear and usually results from a wax blockage, a punctured eardrum, birth defects, ear infections, fluid behind the eardrum or an ear bone abnormality. Generally, these can be corrected surgically.

Nerve hearing loss is damage to the inner ear and is caused by aging, prenatal and birth-related problems, viral and bacterial infections, head injuries, exposure to loud noises, certain drugs or a benign (non-cancerous) tumor. Depending on the cause of the hearing loss, it may be corrected with a hearing aid.

Q: I'm worried about how the hearing aid will look. I don't want everyone to know I have a hearing problem.

A: Hearing aids have changed a lot in recent years. New digital hearing aids are much smaller and sit on top of the ear with a tiny tube in the ear. They are available in styles that are inconspicuous, Remember, your hearing loss is probably more noticeable than any hearing aid.

Q: Will I still have problems hearing when I wear a hearing aid?

A: New hearing aids are digital and much more precise in meeting your individual hearing needs. An audiologist (professional who tests your hearing and fits you with a hearing aid) can design a device especially for you. It will help you hear the sounds you need to hear without a lot of the background noise that older hearing aids often picked up. Remember, a hearing aid cannot completely restore hearing.

Q: Where can I buy a hearing aid?

A: See a qualified professional, preferably an audiologist. Do not buy over the Internet and never buy from someone selling just one brand. See a licensed professional who sells multiple lines of products.

Q: Can I get a trial period to make sure it works?

A: You should always get a trial period. Often, adjustments to a hearing aid are made during the trial period and most manufacturers allow returns within 30, 60 or 90 days from the time of purchase.

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