Frequently Asked Questions About Hearing Loss & Hearing Aids

Find the answers you need about hearing loss

Hearing loss can feel confusing and even overwhelming. There’s no shortage of myths and conflicting advice online, which is why our team at Hearing Associates takes the time to answer your questions directly and honestly. Below are answers to a few of the most common concerns we hear from patients and their families.
It can result from aging, genetics, repeated noise exposure, certain medications, or ear infections. Sometimes, it’s due to wax buildup or fluid that can be treated medically. Learn More.about Hearing Loss 101

Because hearing loss often worsens gradually and painlessly, you might not notice it at first. Often friends or family point it out before the person themselves does. If you’ve been nodding during conversations or increasing the volume more than others, it’s wise to schedule a hearing test.

Most appointments last about an hour. You’ll receive a thorough evaluation and a clear explanation of your results that same day.

In many cases, yes. Protecting your ears from loud sounds, managing chronic health conditions, and scheduling regular hearing exams all help preserve hearing. Learn More.about Prevent Hearing Loss

A hearing aid is a compact electronic device worn behind or inside the ear. It has a microphone to pick up sound, an amplifier to boost portions of that sound, and a speaker to deliver it to your ear. This process helps you hear more clearly in everyday life.

Many hearing losses are sensorineural – that is, damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve. While this type of loss can’t be reversed, a hearing aid boosts what you can hear. The device sends a stronger sound to your ear, helping the surviving cells detect it and send signals to your brain.
Absolutely. Modern hearing aids enhance clarity, reduce background noise, and automatically adjust to different sound environments. Many patients report feeling more engaged, less fatigued, and better connected within days.

Audiologists

Specialists with master’s or doctoral training who assess, diagnose, and treat hearing and balance disorders, including fitting hearing aids.

Hearing instrument specialists

Professionals trained and often licensed to test hearing and fit or dispense hearing aids.

ENT (otolaryngologists)

Medical doctors who treat ear, nose, and throat conditions, and manage medical or surgical care for complex ear issues.

The best way is with a hearing test – a diagnostic evaluation at our office. We measure your hearing loss, discuss your listening challenges, and let you test hearing aids in real life. That way, you can see whether a hearing aid improves your speech understanding and comfort.

Hearing aids come in many designs. Some sit behind your ear, while others are molded inside the canal and nearly invisible. Each style offers trade-offs in terms of power, comfort, and features. Our team can help you pick the one that suits your needs and preferences best.

Not at all. Modern digital models offer many features and differences:
  • Bluetooth streaming and phone integration
  • Rechargeable or disposable power
  • Advanced noise reduction and speech enhancement
  • Synchronization between both ears (binaural processing)
  • Your audiologist will guide you to the features suited to how and where you listen.

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Two people with the same hearing test may prefer different styles or programming. Your ideal device depends on your lifestyle, listening environments, and preferences. Our process considers your test results, listening challenges, and budget before making a recommendation.

  • Which features will help me the most?
  • What is the total cost?
  • Do newer, premium models offer enough benefit to outweigh the price difference?
  • What is the trial period, and what fees apply if I return the device early?
  • How long is the warranty, and what does it cover?
  • Can adjustments and minor repairs be done locally?
  • Are loaner aids available if mine require servicing?
  • What training or guidance will I receive?

Those with hearing loss often have it in both ears. The brain integrates sounds from both ears to help localize direction. Therefore, many patients get more clarity and comfort from using a pair instead of just one.

It takes time and patience. Most users feel comfortable within several weeks, though some effects (like your own voice) may take a bit longer to adjust. Occasional discomfort or background noise sensitivity is normal early on. Any issues can be tuned by your audiologist.
Good care extends their life:
  • Avoid moisture, heat, and chemical exposure
  • Clean them gently each day, removing earwax or debris
  • Don’t use hair products while wearing aids
  • Turn them off when not in use
  • Replace dead batteries immediately
  • Keep extra supplies out of reach of children and pets
Hearing technology keeps evolving rapidly. Today’s devices are smaller, more powerful, and more affordable than ever. They reduce background noise, stream phone and media audio, enhance speech, and integrate with smartphones.
Some private insurers offer partial hearing aid benefits. Check your plan’s coverage. Hearing Associates also offers financing and payment plans to make hearing solutions more accessible.
Financing and payment plans

Buying online without first testing your hearing and getting a professional fitting often leads to disappointment. A hearing aid only works well when programmed for your specific hearing pattern. That’s why we advise working with a licensed professional to ensure you get a device that truly works for you.

Learn Moreabout Hearing Aids

Ready to hear life clearly again?

The first step is simple. Schedule a hearing evaluation at our Libertyville or Gurnee office and discover solutions that fit you, your goals, and your lifestyle.
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