We know that there are many questions that you probably need answered. The best place for us to do it is in a consultation, where we can assess every element and give answers that are applicable to you. However, we have tried to cover most of the generic questions that are asked here. If you have any questions outside of these, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are always happy to answer.
How Do I Know If I Have a Hearing Loss
There are five clear signs that a person may have a hearing loss. If you suffer with a combination of any two, you should get your hearing tested:
- Frequently asking others to repeat themselves.
- Trouble following conversations that involve more than two people.
- Thinking that others are mumbling.
- Trouble hearing the voices of women and small children.
- Turning up the TV or radio volume too loud for others who are nearby.
How Long is a Hearing Test
We undertake a comprehensive diagnostic hearing evaluation which involves thorough testing of your hearing function. This includes, tympanometry, OAEs, Pure Tone Testing and Quick SIN Speech Testing. An average test process takes approximatley one hour.
How is Hearing Loss Measured
Sound occurs at different pitches called frequencies and at different loudness levels that we refer to as intensity. The measurement unit for frequencies are Hertz (Hz) and the measurement unit for intensity is the decibel (dB). The range of pitches that we are important for speech range from low 250 Hz to high 8000 Hz. The ranges of intensities that we normally hear are 0 dB (very soft sound) to 120 dB (very loud sound). A hearing test is a measure of how well we hear at each pitch or frequency. This information allows us to quantify your loss.
What Are The Degrees Of Hearing Loss
The degree of hearing loss refers to the severity of hearing loss. Historically people spoke about hearing loss in percentages, but it is not an accurate or descriptive term. Most Audiologists now use degree of loss, such as the following:
- Normal range or no loss: 10 to 20 dB
- Slight Loss/Minimal Loss: 20 to 30 dB
- Mild Loss: 26 to 40 dB
- Moderate Loss: 40 to 60 dB
- Moderate/Severe Loss: 51 to 70 dB
- Severe Loss: 71 to 90 dB
- Profound Loss: 91 dB or more
How Do Hearing Aids Work
The most basic descriptions of hearing aids are that they are amplifiers of sound. They have a microphone or microphones that convert sound into electrical signals, an amplifier that increases the strength of the signal, then a loudspeaker (receiver) which converts it back to sound and channels it into the ear canal through a small tube or ear-mould. A small battery powers the hearing aid and enables its working processes. Most modern hearing aids are sophisticated, state-of-the-art mini computers that shape and amplify sound amplification to fit a hearing loss. They all require expert computer programming to adjust to your specific lifestyle and listening environments.
Will Hearing Aids Restore My Normal Hearing
No, hearing aids do not deliver normal hearing although the most modern ones are doing an increasingly better job of it. Most hearing losses are caused by damaged or missing hair cells in the cochlea, they can not be replaced. Even though hearing aids shape sounds to fit your hearing loss, the louder sounds are still sent to damaged hair cells in the cochlea. While damaged hair cells cannot be replaced, hearing instruments are the proven solution which both greatly improve your ability to hear and dramatically increase your quality of life.
How Long Will it Take To Adjust To Hearing Aids
Hearing aids deliver immediate benefits, however to receive the full benefit given a Patient needs to go through a period of rehabilitation. A great deal of that rehabilitation takes place within the first three months. It will continue for up to a further nine months dependent on the period that the loss has been untreated. There are also exercises and programmes that will help with rehabilitation, these will help you get the full benefit of your hearing aids. We are committed to strong rehabilitation and after care for all our Patients.