Hearing Loss & Hearing Aids FAQ

How can I tell if I have hearing loss?

Hearing loss can develop over time without any pain, making it easy to go unnoticed. Friends, family and coworkers will often notice it before you do.

If you think you have hearing loss, take the quiz. If the hearing quiz indicates you have hearing loss, come visit us for a professional test to see if hearing aids might help.

What are hearing aids?

Hearing aids are more than simply small speakers that amplify sound. At a bare minimum, hearing aids have a microphone, amplifier and speaker. Newer models also have artificial intelligence that help differentiate voices from background noise and create a more clear sound. Hearing aids help those with hearing loss communicate better.

How will hearing aids help me hear better?

Most types of permanent hearing loss are sensorineural. This means the hair or the nerve cells have become permanently damaged either by loud noise, lack of blood circulation, or other health issues. While this kind of hearing loss can’t be cured, it can be treated using hearing aids.

Hearing aids not only allow you to hear again, they have been proven to help stave off health issues such as dementia and depression.

Want to see whether hearing aids will help you? We’d be happy to demonstrate.

Who is qualified to treat hearing loss?

Audiologists have a master’s or doctorate degree in audiology and specialize in evaluating and treating hearing loss and other issues related to the ear.

Hearing Instrument Specialists are professionals specializing in fitting and dispensing hearing aids. Hearing Instrument Specialists undergo extensive educational and clinical training and are often state-licensed and board-certified to test for hearing loss and fit hearing aids.

Otolaryngologists have a medical degree with a specialty in ear-related disorders and can diagnose and treat ear, nose, throat, head, and neck disorders. Otolaryngologists are often called ENTs.

Otologists have a medical degree and can diagnose and treat ear disorders.

Will hearing aids help me hear again?

Think you’re having trouble hearing? Call or text to make an appointment for a hearing test. We’ll uncover the extent of your hearing loss and go over any next steps.

What kinds of hearing aids are there?

Hearing aids come in all sizes, styles, and colors. Some go behind the ear while are hidden in the ear canal. Modern models also are rechargeable, connect to smartphones, stream music and filter out background noise.
Call or text us. We can help you find the right hearing aid for you.

Which hearing aids are best?

That depends on your hearing test results. Some styles of hearing aids are appropriate to treat mild to moderate hearing loss, while others are more appropriate for severe hearing loss. If you have other issues, such as tinnitus, you may benefit from a hearing aid that offers a noise generator. We’ll also ask where you plan to wear them and how active you are. Are you extremely active and need a pair that you can comfortably exercise in? These are some of the things you’ll consider during your hearing consultation. Schedule a call with us to go over your options.

Why should I get two hearing aids?

Modern hearing aids are designed to be used as a pair. This is because you need both ears to locate the source of sounds and to hear frequencies correctly. Hearing aids work together to help you not only hear sounds, but to interpret them correctly.

How long will it take before I’m comfortable wearing my hearing aids?

The answer differs with each person. The sooner hearing loss is detected, the easier the transition can be. New hearing aids are light, small, and relatively comfortable. That said, they may take a while to get used to. After all, you’ll be hearing sounds that you haven’t heard in a while. Everything may sound just a little louder, including your own voice. On average, most hearing aid users adjust to wearing them within a couple of months. If you’re really uncomfortable, call us. You may need a simple adjustment.

How do I take care of my hearing aids?
Here are a few tips for keeping your hearing aids in proper working order:

  • Avoid heat and moisture.
  • Clean hearing aids carefully and regularly.
  • Avoid using hair products while wearing hearing aids.
  • Turn them off when they are not in use.
  • If using regular zinc-air batteries, don’t leave dead batteries in the case.

Can I get help paying for hearing aids?

Having trouble paying for hearing aids? We can help you determine your eligibility with your insurance provider or help you find affordable options.

Can I get hearing aids online?

Hearing aids are only effective if they are programmed to your hearing loss. Not only are different models designed for different types and levels of hearing loss, they are programmed to the frequencies you’re unable to hear. That’s why the process starts with a hearing test. If you bypass this step, you increase the risk of having hearing aids that are either too loud or too soft for your degree and type of hearing loss.

A man and woman playing on the swing.

Hearing Loss Affects Your Health

Don’t wait to get treatment.

Clarke Hearing Center

Northampton, MA

45 Round Hill Road, Suite A
Northampton, MA 01060
Call or Text: 413-341-0040

Monday – Thursday: 8am – 5pm
Friday: 8am – 4pm

Find out how we can help!

Call or Text Us