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Hearing aids allow you to stay connected to the world around you and experience the sounds you want to hear. In order to get the most from your device, it’s important to be aware of some of the challenges new users face so that you can feel confident when wearing them.
Make Sure Hearing Aids Feel Comfortable in Your Ear
When you first get your hearing aids you will go through a fitting process with your audiologist. This is to ensure your device fits comfortably in your ear and can provide you with the best hearing experience. Be as open as you can during this process. If something feels painful, let your audiologist know so they can make any needed adjustments.
Also make sure that you know how to remove and reinsert your hearing aids before taking them home. This will help you avoid unpleasant feedback caused by wearing your device incorrectly.
Give Yourself Time to Adjust to Your Hearing Aids
Many people with hearing loss have had the condition for years before seeking treatment. When they first get hearing aids, sounds can seem overly loud or high-pitched. This can be particularly noticeable in louder environments like The Celtic Fox.
Start out slow and have one-on-one conversations in quieter settings with your spouse or another loved one. If noises seem unbearably loud, ask your audiologist if your device can be adjusted. Most importantly, be patient and wear your hearing aids consistently every day.
Challenge Your Perceptions About Hearing Loss
Many people have certain stereotypes in mind when they think about people with hearing loss. There’s a stigma that people who use hearing aids are old or less capable than those that don’t. Research has shown that hearing loss stigma is strongly associated with feelings of altered self-perception.
Don’t let these false ideas keep you from getting help. Challenge these stigmas by being open about your hearing aid use when others notice and talking about the things you like about them. Focusing on the positive helps remove the stigma and increases your confidence when wearing your device.
Have Realistic Hearing Expectations
Hearing aids help improve your ability to process speech and sound. However, this does not mean they can restore your hearing back to normal. Knowing what your device is and isn’t capable of will help you better appreciate the benefits you get from it without feeling let down by unrealistic expectations.
Know When to Call Your Audiologist
Hearing aids take some getting used to, but they shouldn’t ever cause pain or be too unpleasant to wear. If you are experiencing problems for several weeks or issues so intense you don’t want to wear your device, make an appointment with your audiologist to see what adjustments need to be made.
If you have additional questions or wish to schedule an appointment with a hearing aid expert, call Topeka ENT today.