All You Need to Know About Hearing Aid Fittings

After scheduling a hearing aid fitting, you may be wondering what to expect during the actual session. But a successful hearing aid fitting goes beyond just getting the suitable device that fits your hearing needs. Much more goes into it, and you will learn all you need to know about hearing aid fittings.

Expectation

At your hearing aid fitting, you will be exposed to the different hearing aids and the options at your disposal. When you choose a hearing aid, it will be fitted for comfort and tested in different environments. The functions of the hearing aid and other features will also be discussed with you by your hearing instrument specialist (HIS). Based on an earmold, your lifestyle and hearing needs.

Preparation

Although there are no preparation requirements before a hearing aid fitting, you can reduce your anxiety or increase your knowledge by reading about hearing aids. With more knowledge, your anxiety will diminish and you will be able to ask your HIS pertinent questions concerning the devices before you make a decision. You should also be ready to learn from your HIS when you need to go back.

Discomfort and Pain

Several people refuse to use hearing aids due to the perceived pain or discomfort associated with the devices. This perception is entirely false as hearing aid fittings require non-invasive techniques and do not cause any pain. Fitting sessions usually involve discussions concerning your preferred type of hearing aid and how best they suit your needs. Then you will have to undergo a few tests to determine how best the device will fit your ear.

Type of Tests

To get the right fit for your ear, your HIS will do a battery of tests. One of these tests is the real ear measurement which is done to determine that the sound transmitted to your eardrum is adequate. Another test will also be done to determine the level of sound you can hear at different pitches to eliminate the sounds that may be uncomfortable for you.

This will provide you with quality and non-disruptive sound. Besides these, your HIS will calibrate your hearing as you wear the hearing aids to ensure that you have a good sound from a range of the audible spectrum.

How Do Hearing Aids Feel?

There are many types of hearing aids on the market, and the most popular include in the ear (ITE), behind the ear (BTE) and in the canal (ITC). Each of these types, although maybe affixed differently, still serves the same purpose. How the hearing aid will feel in your ear will depend on the style. However, your HIS will ensure that you get the best fit.

Aftercare

You will need to go back to your hearing specialist after being fitted with hearing aids. This is because your hearing specialist may need to recalibrate your hearing aids to improve your hearing experience. Also, during the fitting session, you will be taught how to care for and safely store your hearing aid properly. You will be introduced to the various functions and features and how to adjust the hearing aid. You can always go back to your HIS if you have any issues with your device.