10 Common Misconceptions About Hearing Aids: Debunked

Research states that approximately 37-million Americans experience trouble hearing, making hearing loss the country’s third most prevalent physical condition. Fortunately, devices like hearing aids allow people with hearing loss to enjoy everyday activities without feeling left out. However, false information about these devices exists. We will debunk these myths while shedding more light on the realities. That said, here are ten common misconceptions about hearing aids.

Hearing Aids Are Impractical and Visually Unappealing

Many young people shy away from hearing aids, thinking they are visually unappealing and can stick out like a sore thumb. However, this is far from the truth. Manufacturers are beginning to see the need to create functional hearing aids without sacrificing style. Thanks to innovation, you can leverage miniature versions to prevent you from feeling self-conscious or out of place when using them. For instance, audiologists can recommend behind-the-ear (BTE) or in-the-canal (ITC) models. Moreover, modern hearing aids have various colors that can make them effective fashion accessories, so keep this in mind.

Only the Elderly Wear Hearing Aids

The World Health Organization (WHO) indicates that over one billion young people risk hearing loss due to unsafe practices. Moreover, various kids are born with hearing aids. Therefore, hearing aids aren’t meant for the senior population alone. Anyone can use these helpful devices, regardless of their age. Speaking with an audiologist can help you understand the need for hearing aids.

Hearing Aids Whistle Continuously

Admittedly, your hearing aids are meant to amplify sounds. However, they may experience technical issues that trigger whistling from time to time. While this is normal, continuous whistling could indicate a problem. Various factors like dislodged microphones, excessively high volume, broken tubing and wax buildup usually cause this issue. Alternatively, your hearing aids may whistle if they fit incorrectly, so consult your audiologist to clarify this issue.

People Can Immediately Hear Perfectly with These Devices

This misconception can cause disappointment when people can’t hear perfectly after their first experience. This is because your hearing center in the brain must undergo a learning process to perceive various sounds you stopped hearing a long time ago. Moreover, several visits to your audiologist may be required to adjust your hearing aids to your needs. Therefore, giving yourself some acclimatization time is advisable to enjoy the full benefits. This can range from a week to four months.

Only People with Severe Hearing Loss Need Hearing Aids

Hearing loss is gradual and sometimes barely noticeable in its early stages. Early detection and hearing aid fitting can preserve your remaining hearing ability. Fortunately, certain signs can alert you of hearing loss. For instance, visiting your audiologist may be needed if you find yourself increasing the TV’s volume or can’t follow a conversation in public.

Hearing Aids and Personal Sound Amplifiers Are the Same

It’s worth noting that personal sound amplifiers and hearing aids aren’t the same. Personal sound amplifiers are for recreational purposes, such as hunting and bird watching since they increase overall volume. This is where hearing aids come in. You should visit your audiologist for a hearing aid fitting if you experience hearing loss.

You Don’t Need Two Hearing Aids

Many people make the mistake of acquiring one hearing aid, whether they experience hearing loss in one or both ears. While this was common practice in the 80s, using two devices is more beneficial. Indeed, using a pair of hearing aids prevents auditory deprivation, making your brain more effective at decoding sounds around you. Likewise, the sound quality allows you to converse in public spaces while promoting sound localization.

Hearing Aids Are Ineffective Against Tinnitus

Although tinnitus can’t be cured, hearing aids can offer relief, allowing you to undertake your activities easily. Notably, these devices mask the unpleasant sounds associated with tinnitus by amplifying the sounds around you. Newer models also leverage sound therapy to relieve this condition. This means they randomly play musical tones and pleasant chimes instead of white noise. This feature can also reduce anxiety and stress, so keep this in mind.

You Don’t Need Hearing Aids if You Can’t Hear Certain Sounds

You may be experiencing the early stages of hearing loss if you can’t perceive certain sounds. And if left unchecked, your hearing may decline. Therefore, request a hearing test to preserve your hearing if you are in this situation. Talk with your audiologist about hearing aids and which one may be the best for your hearing requirements.

Hearing Aids Aren’t Effective

It’s common for hearing aids to not work for people the first time. However, this doesn’t render them ineffective. More improved models offer less background noise, clearer speech and a more natural hearing experience. Therefore, visit your audiologist again if your first experience wasn’t worthwhile. If you want the ideal hearing aids or want to learn more from an audiologist, visit Dr. Eimer’s Hearing Clinic, or call us today at 231-333-5118 for more information.