Hearing aids are complicated devices. It’s no surprise, therefore, that people have a lot of questions about them. Take a look at these top FAQs about hearing aids.

Can I use my hearing aid with my phone?

Yes, you can. Many modern hearing aids come with telecoils that pump sound directly from the phone to the hearing aid speaker, bypassing the microphone. The result is a better quality sound that sounds crisp and clear.

What should I do if my hearing aids sound muffled or crackly?

Hearing aids can sound muffled or crackly for several reasons. If the hearing aid sounds muffled, check that earwax or any other debris does not block the speaker. Also, check that the tube is connected correctly to the speaker and battery units. If your hearing aid continues to sound muffled or crackly, then try replacing the battery. If there’s still no improvement, then go and visit your hearing health professional who will be able to diagnose the problem more accurately and offer suggestions about what to do next.

Can my hearing aid cut out background noise?

Many people with hearing loss struggle to concentrate on a particular voice in loud environments. Modern hearing aids often have a technology called “noise cancellation” which blocks out all of the noises that you don’t want to hear, allowing you to concentrate on the one that you do.

Can I get hearing aids that people can’t see?

Many people used to wear behind-the-ear hearing aids because that is what the technology allowed. But with advances in microelectronics, it’s no longer necessary to wear large, bulky devices if you don’t want to. In-the-ear and completely-in-the-ear devices are far more discreet with the latter being invisible from the outside.

How long will my hearing aid last?

Hearing aids last around three to five years, depending on the level of maintenance. The better you look after them, the longer they will last.

How do I know if I need a hearing aid?

Sometimes it can be challenging to know whether you need a hearing aid or not. That’s why it’s always a good idea to visit a hearing specialist. A hearing health professional can perform a battery of tests on your ears to determine the current state of your hearing and whether you could benefit from wearing assistive hearing devices.

Will hearing aids make a difference to my hearing?

Hearing aids can help improve hearing in individuals with a range of different types of hearing loss. The most common use of hearing aids is in cases of presbycusis, the hearing loss that accompanies aging. As the ear ages, it begins to lose its sensitivity, and you may need assistance picking up certain types of sound. Hearing aids can also help in cases of sensorineural hearing loss, where the fine hairs in the inner ear are damaged. Many people suffer damage to these hairs by listening to music too loud or working in loud environments. Injury can also cause damage, necessitating the use of assistive hearing devices in younger people.