How do I Know If I Have Hearing Loss?
One of the tell-tale signs of hearing loss is how frequently you ask friends and family to repeat what they said or feel like everyone around you is mumbling instead of talking out loud. Hearing issues can crop up due to a variety of health, age and lifestyle-related reasons so it's crucial to have your hearing evaluated at the onset.
Can I Buy Hearing Aids in Sri Lanka Online? Is it a Good Idea?
With online shopping becoming a part of everyday life, it is reasonable to wonder if hearing aids and hearing solutions can also be found on the internet. It's important to remember, however, that improving your hearing using a device is far more complex than simply buying and wearing a hearing aid. Your hearing concerns and difficulties are unique and require a custom solution or remedy. Although there's nothing inherently wrong in getting an idea of the average hearing aid price in Sri Lanka or looking for hearing aid batteries online. Sri Lanka and most South Asian countries are unable to provide diagnostic audiology tests virtually
Online Hearing Tests Vs In-Depth Hearing Assessments
While countless online retailers offer online hearing assessments, it's necessary to understand that these tests disregard clinical criteria. ● Online hearing tests are not conducted in a controlled environment - This means background noise and other sounds can impact your results ● You will need a functioning sound system in your home to complete the test - If your headphones, speakers or microphone are faulty, it will compromise the accuracy of the test ● Online tests can't detect physical ear issues such as earwax or other debris ● Online assessments cannot detect or record sensitive information such as - 1. the response of your eardrum and its movement 2. comfortable listening volume 3. how sound moves through the ear canal 4. how easily words and speech is recognized by your brain While an online test can serve as a preliminary step before visiting a hearing care professional, it will not help you decide on what type of hearing aid you require or if you require one at all.
In-Depth Audiology Tests - Key Differences
At Vision Care, our diagnostic audiological assessments are performed in a soundproof and clinical environment. An initial assessment by a professional audiologist can take up to an hour and involves a number of tests that determine how each part of your auditory system functions. Our qualified audiologists are also trained to notice symptoms of underlying medical conditions that may require special treatment beyond simply using a hearing device. This includes life-threatening illnesses that cannot be detected by an online assessment. Once the test is complete, a hearing aid or device will be recommended from a wide variety of brands, styles and models based on your individual lifestyle. The selected hearing aid will be customized to your ear's specifications and programmed digitally so that the acoustic settings cater to your physicality and ear shape.
Can a Hearing Aid Restore My Hearing?
Hearing aids can make a big difference in how well you hear speech and other environmental sounds but they cannot restore the natural function of your ear. Consider a hearing aid as an enhancer rather than a cure.
How Long Does a Hearing Aid Last?
The life span of a high-quality hearing aid is 4 to 5 years although this will greatly depend on your lifestyle and how well the device is maintained over the years by the user. Hearing aids come with different warranty periods but it is important to service and quality check your hearing aids to maintain good hearing and functionality. Ensure that your hearing care provider offers hearing aid upgrade programs when the lifetime of your hearing aid runs out and it is time to switch over to a new one.
Do Hearing Devices Need Special Batteries?
Yes, these include disposable batteries as well as rechargeable batteries made specially for hearing aids.
If Have Hearing Loss in Both Ears, Does that Mean I Must Wear Two Hearing Aids?
There are several reasons why wearing two hearing aids is more beneficial. Firstly, the brain can better process environmental sounds when input is received from both years. Determining the location a sound is coming from also requires sound signals from both ears. Furthermore, even the best hearing aid in the world worn only to one ear cannot guarantee clarity in noisy environments. Two ears are always better than one.
How Long Will It Take to Get Used to Wearing Hearing Aids?
Although it really depends on the individual, relearning to listen and understand through a new auditory system will take time. There's typically a 60-day period in which you can adjust the settings of your hearing aid with a hearing care professional to help get used to the device. Vision Care Hearing Solutions offers a lifetime time of complimentary hearing aid service and fine-tuning sessions to ensure you adapt to your new hearing aids with the required assistance.
How Much Does a Hearing Aid Cost?
The cost of hearing aids is determined by the various technologies used in the devices. Think of hearing aids as highly sensitive, compact computers you wear on your ear with a tiny battery that lasts longer than the battery of your laptop. Hearing aid companies spend years and a considerable amount of money researching and developing hearing technology. This is why good quality hearing aids are costly. A good digital hearing aid can range anywhere between 50,000 to 2 million rupees.
What should I expect during my first hearing evaluation?
Your first visit typically involves a detailed consultation with a hearing care professional. You'll undergo several tests to assess your hearing ability, and the professional will explain the results in clear terms. It’s an opportunity to discuss your hearing challenges and lifestyle needs.
Will I experience any discomfort during the hearing test?
Hearing tests are painless and non-invasive. Most tests involve listening to sounds through headphones or having your ears gently examined.
Can I test out a hearing aid before purchasing?
Many hearing care providers allow you to try hearing aids during the assessment process or offer trial periods. This can help you experience the difference they make before committing to a purchase.
How often should I have my hearing tested?
It’s recommended to have your hearing tested annually, especially if you're over 60 or if you've noticed any changes in your hearing.
What happens if my hearing aid stops working?
Most hearing care providers offer maintenance services or warranty coverage. If your device malfunctions, they can help with repairs or adjustments to ensure it’s functioning properly.
Will my hearing aid connect to my phone or other devices?
Many modern hearing aids come with Bluetooth functionality, allowing you to stream phone calls, music, and TV sound directly to your hearing aids.
I don’t want the hearing aid to be visible. Do I Have Style Options?
Yes! Our audiologists will help you find the right device to suit your hearing loss and personal preferences. There are a great many styles and colours to choose from.
