Hearing Aids For The First Time | Things You MUST Know!

Dr. Clifford Olson, Audiologist from Anthem Arizona, tells you what to expect when receiving hearing aids for the first time.
Website: www.DrCliffAuD.com
Clinic Website: www.AppliedHearingAZ.com
Receiving your first set of hearing aids does not have to be a scary experience. In fact, it should be an exciting experience that leads you to better hearing. Here are the 7 things you should expect when receiving your first set of hearing aids.
1. Expect the Fitting to take around an Hour. Proper fitting and programming takes time.
2. People won't notice the hearing aids. Likely the only thing they will notice is you hearing them better.
3. Things will sound different. Some of it may be annoying, but will get better.
4. You will hear yourself differently. You likely haven't heard yourself at the correct level for a long time. It takes your brain time to adjust to the new level of sound.
5. You will probably forget you are wearing hearing aids. Aids are really comfortable.
6. Expect to see your hearing care professional several times. You can't fit a hearing aid well with only one visit. Make sure you get more than one visit.
7. You should be hearing better with hearing aids. The best way to ensure your hearing aids are programmed correctly is by using Real Ear Measures. To learn about what Real Ear Measures are, watch this video: • The Most Important HEA...

[@DrCliffAuD]

What questions do you have about trying hearing aids for the first time?

[@alishahayes632]

So do u get ur hearing aid the same day that u get a hearing aid fitting

[@alishahayes632]

Doctor cliff,auD

[@1harothread]

Can you do a review of the widex evoke?

[@Conundrum888]

I've had my new hearing aids for about 2 months now and have been back for 3 soon to be 4 very extensive audiologist appointments. Here in Australia if you are on a pension you qualify for free testing and if your hearing loss is bad enough you will be given a 'basic' model, mine being a "Unitron Stride M" for free. You get unlimited batteries and maintenance for around $50AUD per year. With how utterly impressed i am with the results of the hearing aids my question is, features aside, how does it get any better by getting more expensive models? And what are your thoughts on the Stride M, being free, fitted and tuned and all that?

[@christinabernard8701]

Considering getting a hearing aid for the first time. Watching your videos have been extremely informative in helping me decide. I have hearing loss only on my right ear, you keep mentioning pairs. Is it necessary for me to buy 2 when my left ear has perfect hearing? Thanks for your help.

[@arm5510]

Had my first experience with a hearing aid today at my hospital. They programed an phonak marvel for my needs (moderate - severe mixed loss) in my left ear, and it was an amazing experience. It was like someone just, opened my ear up and I could hear❤️ they gave me a perception, and I headed down to the nearest provider that does REM, had a custom mold made for the tip, and it should be here in 5-10 business days. I am beyond excited, I was so sad when they had to take out the test one at the hospital.

[@ryanrogers93]

im 27 and getting hearing aids in 2 days due to not protecting my ears in noisy environments. i have around a 30% loss compared to someone aged 30 with good hearing. I have been through a rough patch in life recently and discovering how bad my hearing is after a test has hit home. that bein said this video has properly helped my anxieties, not only answered some of my questions but made my actually look forward to my appointment. thank you :)

[@CurlyQLink]

I am a 60 year old male and just got my first pair of (behind the ear) hearing aids. A lot of what was said in this video was spot-on. My hearing loss was the result of a car accident (I was a passenger and my head hit the windshield) back in 1975. Funny, that I did not realize how bad my hearing was until a year or so ago when several people were telling me that I was not listening to them; however, I was listening to them. The problem was, I was not hearing everything that was being said. Now, I can hear all of the beautiful things in the world that I have been missing for the past 40+ years.

[@KQuinn672]

Curly Q. Link that’s me..like my sister will say something and then I realize it..not deaf but muddled..I had leukemia last year so I don’t know if chemo or meds?

[@thebossman60]

I am 60 and need to get hearing aids but I have the normal reluctance. Mostly I'm concerned they will be noticeable. My hair is short.

[@oskarmolly]

I've been wearing my first pair for a couple of weeks. My family is noticing the changes a lot, I now don't have the radio on so loud that they could hear it from the street. I do notice other changes my dog sounds like a horse when he walks across the floor, and I can hear water running through the pipes. I forget that I have them on most of the time now but some things sound so different than it used to. I knew for a long time that I was having big issues when someone was talking to the side of me, I thought they were whispering and it made me crazy and they were in a quite room but I could only see their lips moving. I had one appt. where I took several tests, and then came back a few weeks later and was fitted for them, and now I go back again in a few weeks to see if they need adjusting and will take another hearing test. She said I go back again after a few months to see how they are doing and how I am doing with hearing. I was so afraid that I would have these big things on my ears where everyone would see them, no one sees them at all. My hair covers it and I doubt if anyone is going to be looking into my ears to look for the wires. They are almost invisible. Thanks for your videos it has helped me so much.

[@DrCliffAuD]

Glad to hear Snow Girls! Amazing isn't it?!?

[@rudyenter7823]

You are a real pro, Dr. Cliff! These are down-to-earth, encouraging points. Love your channel.

[@DrCliffAuD]

Thanks Rudy!

[@Afterimage_Rush]

Dr. Cliff, thanks for your videos! I have found them very useful! I got my Oticon hearing aid last week. I was worried because they did not work properly. I went back to my doctor, adjustments were made based on my feedback and now it is a whole big difference. Starting the process to get used to them. Thanks!

[@jackieream4265]

Getting my first ones within the week I’m nervous and excited this was helpful!

[@isofrata]

Thank you very much Dr Your videos are very helpful and encouraging

[@DrCliffAuD]

Thanks Ibrahim!

[@Hislittlelamb]

This was such helpful advice, thank you Dr. Cliff. I just got my first pair the beginning of this month and I keep hearing an unnatural (to me) sound of paper crumbling or like stepping on dried leaves. Good to know that's normal & not a defect in the programming. I have 2 pugs. I knew they were noisy even with my hearing loss, but didn't realize just how loud their breathing/panting sounds & the sound of their claws against the wood floors. So glad I didn't get a Conure (small parrot) I was considering as a pet or I'd be in a world of hurt right now.

[@dietdaybydaydiet8546]

Thanks you so much really your KZbin hellp me a lot with the information you give out it’s going to be my first time for hearingAid and I got all what I need to know from you Thanks you from my heart Best for you

[@margaretmele843]

Thank you for this video👍

[@Pat2296]

This advice/info is A1! I got my HAs last month before I saw any of these vids. I knew nothing about hearing aids and the first weeks were hard for the reasons outlined here. I nearly gave up because of the intense itching, discomfort and the annoying sounds I hadn't heard in years (yes, crackling papers! LOL!) Now I put them in first thing in the morning, and last night I really did get into bed with them, only realizing it when I put my head on the pillow. Patience and persistence is primary to get used to them and then you will learn to love them.

[@lilysgram5886]

Did the itching get better with time? I have bad allergies and am worried they will bother me.

[@ricardofonseca8454]

Thanks for your video!!!

[@brooklyngillies5192]

Well, recently I have really struggled with my hearing and my dad has booked a hearing test and my friend thinks that I am going to have to get them because it’s just simple day to day conversations I struggle with so thank you for telling me what to expect if I am going to have to get them.

[@courttacos3421]

Ah yes I remember my first day of having them. It was in 2nd grade and there was a fire drill the first day I took them to school. I had to go to the nurse because it was so loud and I was crying. Had to go home 😂😂😂

[@DrCliffAuD]

Hopefully that wouldn't happen with hearing aids now. The MPO limit should be low enough to prevent serious harm. But hey...at least you got out of a day of school!

[@meric12131415]

😂

[@BearMeat4Dinner]

Just got my first pair today. It was like going into Freddy Kruger Nightmare on Elm Street!

[@rameshtelang7705]

The best video I ever saw

[@nancy1227ful]

I love all the información that you give to us you are very professional .the bad thing is I only understand part of what you said my English is not good enough and I would like to see a least this video with Spanish subtitles 😿thanks

[@pmh1nic]

I have just started wear my new behind the ear hearing aids. My wife came in from work and I spoke to her for a few minutes face to face and she never noticed them. It will take some time to get use to hearing sounds I didn't know I was missing, especially the sound of breathing and blowing while playing the flute. They are sounds you hear while playing that others don't hear so they are somewhat distracting.

[@ricardojano3716]

Better Hearing comes at a cost ! The world is Loud . Very loud is crinkling paper , dropping silverware on a plate and the Top one is Little Children screaming WOW! The little kids are louder the sirens when their near you , unbelievably loud . In my case the improvement is louder then i expected mine are set at 80% now and will be programmed at 100% in the future , i was told my brain needs to adjust . My left hearing aid quit working after a couple of weeks , i went in to have things checked out The problem was wax got in to a passage and caused the loss of sound once it was cleaned it worked as it should. I got mine at Costco Phillips behind he ear type. Like Doctor Cliff said things will be different ! A Very Good Video

[@rick91443]

Am spending some time watching your videos this afternoon...I'm a newbie myself at a very young(in my book,) 65...cheers..rr

[@DrCliffAuD]

Sounds good Richard! Let me know if you have any questions. (Age is a mindset 😉)

[@jasonapatu8543]

Richard Rider A

[@rick91443]

Yes, of course, but(to my surprise,) things are wearing out in spite of being in shape and active. Hearing, my fault, never having worn protection....Thanks for getting back doctor...cheers...rr from Normandy, Fr

[@lorrainemclellan962]

I got my KS10.0T hearing aids 5 days ago. I had to have molds attached as I have a hole in my eardrum in my left ear. They are behind the ear hearing aids. The trouble is the mold on my right hearing aid hurts my ear, I can only keep it in my ear for approximately 30 mins or so as my ear gets very very sore. I am seeing my audiologist next week so hopefully she'll be able to fix it. I must say I manage quite well with 1 hearing aid but we'll see what she can do. Other than that I'm quite pleased with them.

[@allisonblair6254]

I have mew hearing aids and when I bought sunflower seeds the noise of the crinkling wrapping was so loud lol but I feel so much better and when I start school in January it will be a total life changer

[@rhaebeam]

What does "cn tolerate acoustic reflexes mean"? It is on my hearing report.I got a hearing test and my1st hearing aids ever! Been asking people to repeat themselves too much. Some people I understand and some are difficult to understand. It seems Hearing ads are improving my quality of life!

[@dmoore9998]

Since I am looking into hearing aids for the first time, and being an engineer, I decided I'd see what text books were out there on audiology. I found several ebooks samples, one of which is "Modern Hearing Aids, Verification, Outcome Measures, and Follow-up". There was a study done where 2 groups of participants were fitted with hearing aids for evaluation purposes. One group was told they were getting the latest technology and one was told they were getting older technology. After a trial period, both groups turned in the hearing aids, and were given the exact ones back but told the opposite. The groups rated what they were told was the latest technology as better even though the devices were the same. Now lets say I receive loaners to subjectively compare the performance of an Oticon OPN 2 and OPN 3 and find the OPN 2 sounds better. There are therefore what I see as 3 possibilities: 1. From the above study the OPN 2 sounds better because I think it should 2. The OPN 2 features are actually a benefit in my situation 3. The provider makes more profit on OPN 2 and therefore did not properly adjust the OPN 3 to bias my selection How can I know which one of these is true?

[@DrCliffAuD]

That study wouldn't apply in your situation because the features in the OPN 2 and OPN 3 are different. Yes, there is some level of bias because of the name difference, but multiple variables are changing not just the name. In regards to the price difference between OPN 2 and OPN 3, if you go to a provider who un-bundles the pricing of devices from service, it will largely remove that bias. However, in many clinics, the difference in cost between those two levels is the "Cost of Goods" difference to the clinic. Good rule of thumb...If you think a provider is ripping you off, you are probably right.

[@dmoore9998]

Thanks for your quick response. At this point I am not of the opinion that the clinic providing the OPN2 loaners is unscrupulous. I feel that their bundled price is likely in line with other providers in the area, so I have to get a feel for their service. I will likely ask them to let me try a pair of loaner OPN 3's if possible. The fact that they are willing to loan the device for a short period before I write a check I think is a good indication they want me to be happy with my decision. When I read device reviews on line, there are people unhappy with virtually all brands. So I have to think there is some risk no matter what I buy. In the end, it will be the service of the provider that makes the difference, and paying a little bit more to get it is probably a good investment.

[@DrCliffAuD]

Sounds like you have thought this through. I'm confident you will end up pretty happy when it is all said and done. Manufacturers typically only supply demos of their top tier devices, so if they order an OPN 3 for you to try, they are definitely going the extra mile.

[@maryinaclemens4184]

So very important to be able to trust the audiologist! I tend to think critically about everything! My friends say “ I think too much “ What do they know? 😂 I like an engineer’s approach to decision making!

[@carjen121]

I like your videos👏👍🏻

[@kevindurant237]

I’m 15 years old and I think I have high frequency hearing loss. I struggle to understand people when there’s background noise and it’s also difficult at times for me to understand someone on speaker phone. I told my mom I need to see an audiologist but she said first we have to go to my regular doctor to get a referral to an audiologist. The only thing I’m worried about is that I know i can pass my regular doctors hearing test because I do it for my yearly checkups. It seems to me like those hearing test you get at your check ins aren’t very accurate they are just to see if your ears work or not. I hope that the doctor believes me that I’m having trouble and gives me a referral.

[@DrCliffAuD]

Hey Kevin. Just stick to your guns and tell them that you are having trouble hearing. If you primary care doctor still refuses to refer you, it would be ludicrous.

[@goodstoryteller2]

At least in most states you do not need a physician referral to see a Hearing Care Professional--not that there is anything wrong with going that route. If you pick a competant Audiologist they much more training in screening for medical issues related to hearing than your family physician.

[@wjhshshah6933]

Hi! I’m around you’re age, and I can tell you that I struggle with the same things too. First of all, you are not alone. I have moderate to severe hearing loss that I was born with. Yea, I agree with the doctor’s hearing tests not being accurate 😂. Some tips I have if you have similar loss to me/that helped me out big time; in the classroom, suggest to the teacher to sit in the back, so you do not have background noise behind you. It helps you focus better. If you can get an FM system, or a mini mic that would be great too. Always tell people to face you when talking so you can read lips and be able to (at least) understand a little of what they say. I hope you made it to the audiologist!

[@marciwhitman3513]

I think you're skipping over a doctor. I think you need to see the ENT doctor first to make sure that there is nothing wrong with your ears and that they are working properly before you see the audiologist. In the ENT office that I go to the audiologist office is at the back so after you see the ENT doctor if the doctor determines that you need an audiogram you can go get one and then come back and see the ENT to get the results.

[@a_giaccone]

I'm getting them because I can't hear all the volume tones so it might help me

[@normanmulenga223]

Dr how do you choose and determine your hearing aid?

[@adrian1271]

A few years ago, I got tested for my hearing. In the end the audiologist recommended hearing aids. This was done thru Kaiser. At the end of the test, he recommended going thru Costco. I never followed thru but my hearing is really getting bad, so here I am trying to follow thru. I just contacted Kaiser, and they say I have $1000 per device credit per ear, so $2000. I have a more concerns than just price, like in the ear or behind the ear. But is it better to go thru Kaiser or go to Costco? Thanks

[@Pilski]

Again, Dr. Cliff, after my first ten days, I could have written THIS post, too! What are those strange, unusual noises around the house? ?? Fortunately, my adaptation has been very good, but I am still looking for the "no wife" button on the app! Lol. Thanks again for your great videos. ..no SUPER great; you have been immensely helpful to say the least. In fact, I took a list of them to my audiologist consultant, which she seemed to genuinely appreciate .

[@judypasqualone3819]

I went through all this…except my first ones went inside my ear with the fitted piece going into my ear canal. But they started to drive me crazy..they just felt too big. So now I have the kind that are behind the ear piece and the clear wire attached to the earpiece…I have a difficult time inserting left one and my audiologist is working with me. They are better in that conversations don’t sound as distorted. People’s speech is clearer to me now. I spoke to her and I want to ask you too. I’d like a double sided piece of tape to put on them and my ear too. To keep them more secure…they’re so light it’s easy to knock them off if I brush my hair back etc. I was thinking a little piece of tape could hold them…knowing where the microphones are so as not to cover them. What could I use? I stayed with this kind when I stopped the other one..as they’re both rechargeable which is much more convenient. But I also don’t want it to stick so securely that I can’t remove the tape from the device. Any suggestions?

[@sheagoff6009]

I remember when I got my first pair of hearing aids (which were loaners because we didn’t have the money to pay for a full set) I got into the tub with them on and didn’t even notice. My brother was getting his hair washed before me and I sat there for five minutes not realizing they were still in. As soon as mom poured water over my head I yelled “MY HEARING AIDS!!!” She yanked them out of my ears and checked them over. Thankfully they were fine and we just let them dry off. I haven’t done that since. I always make sure they’re out now.

[@marciwhitman3513]

Your insurance should cover your hearing aids. I have Medicaid and I called my insurance to see if they would cover hearing aids for me and they said they only cover hearing aids for people up to age 21. But then if they are deemed medically necessary then the doctor can put in a prior authorization

[@beltycat5490]

I’m due to get my first hearing aids Phonak Audeo Marvel 350 T , my audiologist says she can do REM but insists it isn’t necessary unless I have problems. What problems can expect if I don’t have REM ? Why do audiologists resist doing REM ?

[@strangetml]

0:48 expect the first appointment lasts 1hour + 1:08 people won't notice you get a hearing aid, but you may experience the psychological effect: spotlight effect - you think people notice it 1:37 sound will sound different (i.e. hear better on things that are annoying) 1:57 You will hear yourself differently 2:32 Forget about wearing the aid (both in-the-ear and behind-the-ear hearing aid) 3:12 Expect to see the hearing care professional several times after they first fit your equipment for optimization 3:47 You should be hearing better

[@rogerdat37]

Got my widex moment single hearing aid today for my left ear.

[@unicornlion8078]

Why there are so many advertisements regarding hearing aids???

[@lorieallen4011]

Is it normal for people’s voices to sound “tinny”, as if they are talking into a tin can, when wearing hearing aides ? If not, what is the solution if that is the way my new hearing aides sound?

[@anonimous596]

what is different if you are only getting one -- I have a normal L ear and moderate to sever loss in the R so purchasing only one device at costco a Phillips 9030, I tried the Jabra (both twice) and just did not like the sound from it. I am 55 and I have been noticing for a very long time that things didnt sound 'right' -- uneven is the best way I can describe it so I am pretty sure this has been around for a long time and hearing test confirmed it and walking around with the single device convinced me I will be picking it up next week so just wondering what to expect.

[@gessed]

Hi doctor, I was born with a disability.I can hear only with one part of my brain.All messages are funneled to my left ear.I had a diving accident when I was young and I now have a over the ear hearing aid for my left ear. What hear aid would you recommend? Thank you.

[@84bhavu]

My daughter 13 was having bilateral Sensorial moderate to severe hearing loss when she was 9, but from last 3week ,she has got conductive hearing loss in both ear to severe profound hearing loss, but Sensorial hearing loss is same, so dr. told to use hearing aid of high power till she recovered as she has LD too nd learning is fully depend on hearing. So which hearing aid can cover this loss ,so she can able to hear me,her school teacher,nd watch T.V,please guide nd help which hearing aid can cover profound loss. Please

[@abusyed8333]

Hi doctor cliff, i have mild spooling to profound SNHL hearing loss. Can i use hearing aids for perfect listening. I have difficulty listeining in noisy place. Pls answer

[@cynthiaboulton2408]

I just picked up my hearing aids yesterday. They are the Oticon brand. My Dr. Says I have extremely small and unusually shaped ear canals. We tried for two hours to get them in successfully. She was frustrated and said she doesn’t have hope that this will be resolved. She sent me home with them to work with them. I am unable to get them In myself. I’m very disappointed so far and am wondering if there are any other types of hearing aids, that would work better for me. Or if there is some type of applicator that I could use, that would help me get the dome deep enough into my ear canal myself.? Thank you Cynthia

[@judytaya4347]

So, my first set of hearing aid budget is super low....What do you think is the best I can get below $2,500??? I'm stumped and poor. I already had my test and my problem is not volume but clarity. My insurance covers nothing.

[@vanuhassan1441]

Sir i am using hearing aid since 4 years. Bt i feel very sad because i lost my hearing because of my sister. She always shouts infront of my ear. So i had problem. I am very disappointed & mentally stressed. Because i don't want to say to anyone of my hearing loss. What to do sir? :(

[@user-on6dp5ri4z]

I hear all the sounds but it is not clear. I have problem to understand what are the saying. Please let me know what should I do. I have Phonak

[@dickcherry5741]

Do you have a video on the best OTC hearing aids? Or what are they?

[@DrCliffAuD]

OTC hearing aids do not exist yet.

[@michalchabo7589]

I am 30 years old I was diagnosed with SSHL with 30dB loss in the frequencies between 4K-6K in my right ear and have tinnitus in my right ear. Would hearing aid provide relief from tinnitus?

[@Kol670]

Hi michal, by curiosity, do you know why it happens ? It’s because you were staying around loud things or things like that ? You have to work with loud things ? Thanks

[@Blondie2276]

Yall that have not gotten an answers to the question:" do i get my hearing aids the day i get fitted for them" or "how long after beinf fitted will i get my hearing aids" the apparently "correct answer" is the day you get fitted for them, youll leave with them apparently

[@janakpatel5690]

If sealing in high and very wide rooms the eco sound creat and can't make sure what person tells me

[@sliggdaddyyt4358]

I think I should get some cause I hardly hear anything on right ear

[@MrWholdaway]

I bought some ReSound hearing aids from Costco back in January of this year and, at first, they worked great. BUT, over the past 4 or 5 weeks, they no longer seem to work. I hear as well without them as with them. I spent $3,000 on these things and right now, I feel like I wasted $3,000. Any thoughts? Suggestions? I am 69 just in case that makes a difference

[@DrCliffAuD]

Did you know that you can go back to Costco for them to check the hearing aids to see if they are still working and programmed correctly?

[@laurengranville767]

Hi! Which hearing aid would you say is the best in terms of noise reduction and speech understanding? I am having trouble choosing between Oticon and Phonak hearing aids.

[@DrCliffAuD]

Hi Lauren. Both hearing aids do a good job, they just approach noise differently. Oticon limits the use of directional microphones to leave your "listening landscape" more open. Phonak uses directional microphones to limit amplification of sounds from specific directions. The #1 most important factor is if they are programmed to your hearing loss prescription. This will ensure you get maximum separation of speech from background noise. Also, a speech in noise test should be conducted to determine what level of success you are likely to have in a background noise situation.

[@laurengranville767]

Okay, that makes sense. And yes, I have watched a lot of your videos at this point and so I understand the most important factors. So for example, in a classroom or a daycare center (where I work) with lots of children speaking, would both Oticon and Phonak hearing aids reduce the noise from around and behind me and help me to hear just one child in front of me? For Phonak, would I have to always face the speaker? Which Phonak hearing aid is the best at reducing background noise - or does it depend on the level? Sorry for so many questions!

[@DrCliffAuD]

Performance in background noise depends highly on the level of technology. Higher the level, the better job it does. However your innate ability to separate speech in noise, indicated by a speech in noise test, will also be a factor. With Phonak, you primarily have to face the direction of the person you want to hear in a noisy environment. Oticon opens it up a little bit, but could also lead to some more perceived noise around you.

[@daniellalim-yip2146]

Lauren *

[@daniellalim-yip2146]

Lauren Granville m

[@prabhatchauhan2726]

I have one question for how many hour a day should we wear a hearing aid?

[@DrCliffAuD]

I typically recommend wearing hearing aids for a minimum of 8 hours per day.

[@Prasadfernando753]

Why does a so-rock sound come when the device is put in the ear frist time

[@wildabrown8194]

Why I got my first hearing aids and still people in a corner I still can't hear them.

[@barryhaley7430]

If you have poor hearing and don’t care to get aids for yourself, get them for those around you. I have been using hearing aids for 15 years now. Couldn’t function without them and my wife hasn’t left me😄. No, they won’t give you your 20 year old hearing back. But the improvement can be life changing significant.

[@Abindo344]

Sir , i unable to identify multiply sound Now at begging ,plz help me

[@syedashfaqahmed4311]

Sir how much time does it takes for a hearing aid person to fully understand without seeing lip movements?

[@garyaanderson214]

If You are like me I still look at the lips of people talking so ingrained in my every conversation.I don't have to now its automatic

[@suchonaakthersuchi1248]

i am a 4th year medical student and i have unilateral hearing loss..I'm from Bangladesh..is there any stethoscope which is preferable for me?

[@DrCliffAuD]

Either the Thinklabs one: amzn.to/2yql7nl, or the Eko Digital: amzn.to/2PMz7OM

[@ceirensworld6995]

I think my hearing has gotten worse I have the flu and everything sounds different

[@marciwhitman3513]

I do have an appointment with the audiologist to get fitted for a hearing aid but I'm not sure and she isn't sure whether or not it's the right thing for me. Especially since my hearing loss is due to a acoustic neuroma and I also have tinnitus so I don't know if that would make the tinnitus louder and interfere with me picking up on more speech sounds or not so that's why I need to see the audiologist to find out if hearing aids would be correct for me. According to my last audiogram my hearing that due to speech recognition went down from 85% to 56% so she's thinking that hearing aid may help so that I don't lose the rest of my hearing so quickly. I will eventually lose all of my hearing and if I do need surgery there's a possibility that I will lose it even faster. But right now the tumor is small so it's under observation. But I want my hearing aid to be noticeable and to stand out. I don't want anything that's discreet. I want to celebrate my hearing loss instead of looking at it as a negative thing. So if I do get a hearing aid and I will only need one cuz my hearing loss is only on one side, I want the hearing aid to be a bright color and the part that goes inside my ear also to be a bright color so that people will notice it and then I can show it off. I want it to be a fashion accessory. Because why not? Much better than looking at it from a negative perspective

[@DrCliffAuD]

You need to watch more of my videos about Single Sided Deafness and CROS treatment. Possibly even BiCROS treatment due to the rapidly progressing Acoustic Neuroma. If your provider isn't well versed in your specific condition, you better find one who is.

[@marciwhitman3513]

@@DrCliffAuD the audiologist works along with the ENT doctor and they are a team. The ENT office and the audiology office are both in the same office. She is very well versed in my problem and is willing to do anything to help me. It was the ENT doctor who thought that I would benefit from a hearing aid and so in order to find out if that will actually help me that's why I need to see the audiologist again for a fitting appointment to see if that will be the right thing to help with my hearing loss.

[@jessicakenrick72]

How long after the fitting do u get the hearing aids

[@DrCliffAuD]

What do you mean? When you are fit with the aids, you leave with the aids.

[@evorsor5511]

Hi is there an email where I can contact you? I have a question regarding a hearing Aid issue that im not quite sure how to resolve.

[@DrCliffAuD]

[e-mail]

[@kevindurant237]

What is it like to go to the movie theatre with a hearing aid or listen to music through a speaker or on the radio?

[@DrCliffAuD]

Hi Eli. It depends on your hearing loss. On some occasions, movie theaters play their sound too loud and it becomes overwhelming to hearing aid users with certain types of hearing loss. Other times, it make the movie more clear than just louder. Some movie theaters have Loops which can stream the audio directly into hearing aids which provides the best clarity possible. Hearing aids are also good at amplifying sounds from external speaker sources like the radio. However, just remember, anytime sound is played from another electronic source, you are a the mercy of the quality of that speaker.

[@kevindurant237]

Doctor Cliff, AuD Thank you!

[@burger_kinghorn]

@@DrCliffAuD how do they handle sudden loud sounds like alarms, sirens, or even if someone screams right near you?

[@janakpatel5690]

Due to large and high shapes of room it make eco noise

[@virginiamoss7045]

Nothing to worry about. Right. What about initial cost, ongoing cost, maintenance, things to remember like when to take them out and other things I have no idea about. I want to know how much hassle they are to live with not just how they work or how they help. You know, reality.

[@Androshi]

im very scared of going to a hearing aid doctor! i have read that the hearing aids are very expensive and so is the hearing test! i could hear whats going on far away from me but not in front of me. i could hear the people talking across the street ,but when i hear people speak in front of me it sounds so low! im sure its all in my head! LOL

[@DrCliffAuD]

Choose hope not fear. Don't let other people prevent you from doing what you know you need to do. Fo see a doctor.

[@marciwhitman3513]

You should go to see an ENT doctor first to have your ears examined and make sure that everything is okay. If you can't afford regular insurance you should try and get Medicaid because Medicaid will cover a visit to a doctor and it will also cover the audiogram.

[@ronholfly]

Thanks, I wear hearing aids but find a terrible lot of wi-fi interference like a high whistle sound, so bad everyone around me can hear it.

[@DrCliffAuD]

That is likely feedback from your hearing aids. Your hearing care professional should be able to fix that relatively easily. If they can't, find a new professional to work with.

[@ronholfly]

@@DrCliffAuD Thank you, I will book an appointment to see them.

[@mitchelledels9762]

Maybe Price will go down!

[@ronwarner4100]

Dr. Cliff, thank you for all your fantastic videos, they have really helped me, however, I can find nothing on how to keep my hearing aids from falling out of my ears except for little wire called a sport lock which do not work my ears. What do you suggest?

[@hslgodim]

can i listen to music if i was using the hearing aids?

[@DrCliffAuD]

Hi Terence. Yes, most hearing aids have the ability to stream audio from Bluetooth devices. Some phones are able to stream audio directly from iPhones as well. If you are listening to music that isn't streamed directly into the devices, you could use a music program to ensure the sound of music is at its best.

[@bilahn1198]

I am a music lover and I have a Widex with music mode. The difference in my Enjoyment of is unbelievable. I went to the orchestra and I nearly jumped out of my seat hearing what I have been missing which was a lot of volume and all the high notes. I can't tell you how much this means to me.

[@rebekahmiller8120]

@@DrCliffAuD Hi there, I am getting a hearing aid that will have blue tooth. I am only getting one hearing aid. I am afraid if I stream music or audio through only one ear I will still miss out. Do you know of any other hearing aid wearers with only one aid and what they did regarding music/audio streaming from the phone?

[@burger_kinghorn]

@@rebekahmiller8120 I'm concerned about that too

[@amandaengelman5168]

I've had some degree of hearing loss in my right ear for about 20 years now. My last hearing test was in 2002, and he described it as 50% loss (not exactly accurate, I know) and recommended a hearing aid. I couldn't afford one. I finally had another hearing test today. Now he says it's at 65% loss. It ranges from 65db to 85db depending on the frequency. This time I got a hearing aid. I've been wearing it for a few hours now. It's definitely improved my hearing in that ear. I could understand a whisper from that side. I could understand my son talking to me from the passenger seat, even with the window down. The flip side is that background noises are so much more noticeable and irritating. I heard a sheet of paper rustling at normal reading distance as if it were right next to my ear. I'm also used to putting my earbud in just my left ear and hearing nothing else. Now I can hear it all. It's distracting. My voice echoes in my head. It sounds like I'm talking through a cheap microphone. Every sniffle sounds like I'm doing it into a microphone. I'm trying to wear it as much as possible to get used to these things, but I've wanted to pull the dang thing out multiple times lol.

[@janakpatel5690]

I love to save my hearing aid wearing mask as well is any idea get it to save hearing aids must save

[@patriciaannpayne3859]

I am a first-time user. I only use my hearing aids when I leave the house. If I don't leave the house at all, they are kept in the case without the batteries because I don't want them damaged from moistness that may cause battery corrosion, if there is such a thing. So, they may be in the box for a few days. Should I use the Thermal Science AudioDry when I don't use them? I do use the Audio Dry when I do use them. I love my hearing aids and want to care for the HA Carat 7PX, Signia's as best I can because they do enhance my hearing. Do you have some tips?

[@DrCliffAuD]

Hi Patricia, don't be afraid to consistently use your devices. Using a hearing aid dryer should keep your devices in good working condition, despite wearing them all day, every day. If you do take them off for long periods of time, I recommend removing the batteries and placing the aids in a silica based dryer system like the amzn.to/2FYNZIi

[@jordanplumadore5415]

Are there any differences when a 4 year old child is receiving hearing aids

[@DrCliffAuD]

Yes, but I am not a pediatric audiologist so I'm not the best person to advise on children.

[@beccabean5770]

I'm on YT today trying to learn about hearing aids. I met a homeless senior citizen who is extremely HOH. I bought her one R in-ear aid off EBay- . It arrived- and it works- but won't stop squealing. I think perhaps a good intention, but I know she can't afford specialized aids etc. Is there tips to rig this for her? - thanks

[@DrCliffAuD]

Hi Becca. It is squealing because too much sound is leaking out from her ear and recycling through the microphone. This typically happens when the physical fit is bad, or there is earwax reflecting the sound out of the ear canal.

[@beccabean5770]

Doctor Cliff, AuD ohh- ok. I haven't given it to her yet. I wanted to make sure I could get it as ready as I can first. But I may need to let her try it out & go from there.

[@dnetech5464]

Generally speaking how long do the batteries last?

[@DrCliffAuD]

Being VERY general about how long they last. Size 10 - 3 to 5 days, Size 312 - 5 to 7 days, Size 13 - 7 to 10 days, Size 675 - 2 to 3 weeks.

[@dnetech5464]

Thanks Doctor Cliff.......that’s quite an outlay for consumables each month 🙁........any tips on that front?

[@DrCliffAuD]

Dean Williams at 5 to 6 dollars per month, the outlay isn't that bad depending on your financial situation.

[@dnetech5464]

Doctor Cliff, AuD Yes, that’s not too bad. I’m a bit surprised they need replacing every 3 days worse case scenario. Can the hearing aids be turned off at night to save batteries? Any other tips to prolong their life?

[@DrCliffAuD]

Yes, turning devices off at night should be standard. Otherwise, trying different brands to see which ones work best for you is a good idea.

[@soph_bee_06]

I only wear my hearing aid at school as I can hear normally without a hearing aid

[@cby63]

I'm so scared. I just found out today I need h a in both ears

[@DrCliffAuD]

You shouldn't be scared. Hearing aids are amazing. Hopefully you have a great Hearing Care Professional to support your treatment journey.

[@ihatelittletitties]

Anyone shed a tear when walking out with the new ears?

[@stufields5125]

should I be able to eat popcorn and watch a movie? Right now when I speak it sounds like I have my head in a bucket. When eating popcorn, I have an extreme difficulty hearing my wife speak. $4500 pair of Signia custom molded aids.

[@Tracywhited2]

Why doesn’t anyone talk about how hearing everything and hearing your breathing creates massive anxiety ? I have ten thousand dollar hearing aides and can’t wear them due to this. And no one has any advice for it.

[@bones4702]

I had my hearing test yesterday and need one in my right ear I tried my mums ones just for the feel (hers aren’t moulded to her ear) and omg I heard someone open a pack of sauce across the room! Like what!

[@Tracywhited2]

@@bones4702 lol. It’s exciting. I’m happy for ya. But I would definitely say don’t get the plug type hearing aide.

[@bones4702]

@@Tracywhited2 that’s the only option I can afford :// the free ones are moulded- I’ll probably update them when I can :))

[@DrCliffAuD]

Tracyann, has your provider activated expansion in your hearing aids?

[@kevindurant237]

Do hearing aids make your hearing worse?

[@DrCliffAuD]

Eli Coolin Not when they are programmed appropriately. Hearing aids are specifically programmed to limit the max output of amplification to a safe level.

[@kevindurant237]

Doctor Cliff, AuD Do hearing aids help hear things more clearly. I’ve heard that they only make sounds louder and don’t help with clarity. I often talk to people and sometimes they sound muffled.

[@DrCliffAuD]

Eli Coolin Thus is a complex question at depends on 2 factors. #1. What is your word recognition score? #2. Are the hearing aids programmed properly. Hearing aids are designed to amplify sound in the frequency ranges that are lost. If they are improperly programmed then they will not restore clarity. Check out my Real Ear Measures video for more info on proper programming. However, if your Word Recognition Scores are bad, then hearing aids will struggle to help even if programmed properly.

[@kevindurant237]

Doctor Cliff, AuD How much can a hearing aid improve your word recognition score?

[@DrCliffAuD]

Since standard WRS is tested at an audible level based on your hearing loss, the answer is not very much. However, if you've had WRS tested at average speech level and this is below your threshold of hearing, hearing aids could significantly improve the score. However, this is not the standard way of testing WRS.

[@lashelldavis8613]

If you get them wet with a mess up

[@margieangel]

Do you need to wear your hearing aids everyday to retrain your brain to hear better?

[@DrCliffAuD]

On average you need to be above 8 hours per day.

[@desrend]

I have being fitted with in your ear phonac hearing aids I think they are over priced rubbish, I have lost the high notes and these hearing aids are so bad I would be here all night listing the faults with them, I honestly think that its a con job. What I need is one not two hearing aids that pick up sound from people opposite or beside me, that is the biggest con, you should only need one properly designed hearing aid

[@geraldinemcardle2418]

Every 4 years if you get free from the government in Ireland

[@kerpci]

Yoou do know you are not Jim Carrey, I mean, you do right?

[@malanerasmus8508]

9i

[@ollieanthem9213]

Ruhh rho... no wonder. People think I'm yelling at them... LAF.

[@danewampach263]

You are selling... well polished otherwise

[@DrCliffAuD]

Selling what? Please elaborate.

[@elvirplayz1874]

God please no I’m begging you

[@joekind1]

In the future hearing aids won't be necessary, because Everyone will be Texting.

[@DrCliffAuD]

You're funny. 😂

[@joekind1]

@@DrCliffAuD Thank you.

[@fwamsterdam]

Your info is valuable. But get someone else to present it. Overdone!!! Repulsive.

[@DrCliffAuD]

Nice comment. Since my channel has nearly 200,000 subscribers with millions of video views, I think I'll be okay. 😂