Adjusting to Life With Hearing Aids

Hearing aids can help you reconnect to the world around you. However, the adjustment period can be challenging as you adapt to new sensations and learn how to care for your devices.

Dr. Philip Ho and his team at Silicon Valley ENT & Sinus Center in Los Gatos, California, understand the benefits and challenges of adjusting to hearing aids. We’re happy to provide information that can make the transition successful.    

Tips for adjusting to hearing aids

First, we need to make sure you need hearing aids. If you do, we work to ensure you get the correct type.

1. Start with an accurate diagnosis

Hearing loss can arise from problems in the middle or outer ear (conductive hearing loss), issues involving the inner ear (sensorineural hearing loss), or a mix of both.

The type of hearing aid best suited to your needs depends partly on the type of hearing loss you’re experiencing.  

Before making a diagnosis, Dr. Ho performs a thorough evaluation, including a physical exam, a detailed review of your symptoms, a hearing test, and other diagnostic studies as needed.

He then develops a personalized treatment strategy that varies from individual to individual, depending on the underlying problem.

Your treatment may include removing excess earwax, a frequent cause of muffled hearing, or corticosteroids to reduce inflammation. Dr. Ho may also recommend an audiology evaluation for hearing aids.

2. Work with an audiologist

Technological advances make a wealth of hearing aid types and styles available. Some work well for mild hearing loss, while others can address mild, moderate, and severe hearing loss.

Many modern hearing aids use digital technology to analyze and produce sound, while others include directional microphones that filter out background noise. Hearing aid batteries may be rechargeable or disposable, and some types include wireless connectivity.

Sizes range from those that fit in the ear canal and may be better suited for mild hearing loss to behind-the-ear models with manual controls that work for nearly all types of hearing loss.

An audiologist works closely with you to choose the best type and style for your hearing needs. They can also help you incorporate hearing aid use into your daily routine and identify unexpected problems that could delay a successful transition.

3. Get involved

While Dr. Ho and a professional audiologist can help smooth the path to hearing aid use, a successful transition relies heavily on your participation.

Try these steps to adjust to life with hearing aids:

• Wear your hearing aids for a few hours initially, gradually increasing use
• Give your brain time to reprocess once familiar sounds like rustling leaves
• Use in quieter environments like home before venturing into noisy or crowded spaces
• Learn how your devices work, from battery use to sound settings to maintenance
• Practice using them first with close friends and family
• Get used to the feel of wearing hearing aids, which should quickly become unnoticeable
• Schedule an audiology visit if you experience skin irritation or discomfort

We also recommend following up with Dr. Ho as directed since hearing loss can change over time, perhaps requiring additional care to ensure your hearing aids work as expected.

Call the office or request an appointment online today to schedule a visit with Dr. Ho at Silicon Valley ENT & Sinus Center.