Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids Vs. Prescription
Risk of Buying Hearing Aids Online
At True North Hearing, we understand hearing aid treatment can feel overwhelming. However, you should always strive for the highest quality care regarding your hearing health. Many people with hearing loss worry about the cost of hearing aids and consider buying over-the-counter devices. Below, our experts discuss the risks of buying hearing aids online or “over the counter” and the importance of visiting an audiologist for prescription devices.
Our hearing care professionals are passionate about helping our patients hear the world around them more clearly, and the first step is scheduling a comprehensive hearing test so we can accurately diagnose your type and degree of hearing loss. Reach out to the team at True North Hearing today to learn more about the comprehensive audiology services we offer throughout Acton, MA and the surrounding areas.
Risks of Buying Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids
When you buy hearing aids online, you’re only getting your new devices. When you purchase hearing aids through a hearing care professional based on the results of your evaluation, you get personalized attention, accurate diagnostics, custom fittings, adjustments, counseling, thorough cleanings, and much more. While the upfront cost of over-the-counter hearing aids might sound appealing, there’s a reason the price is so much lower. No matter how advanced a hearing test you take online may seem, it will never compare to the intricate diagnostic evaluation provided by an audiologist. Some additional risks of buying hearing aids online include the following:
- No one inspects your ear canal for abnormalities, earwax buildup, or other issues.
- Online hearing tests are limited when diagnosing your degree and type of hearing loss.
- You could be unaware of a more significant underlying condition causing your hearing loss.
- You can’t be sure where your devices are being manufactured or calibrated.
- If you don’t treat your hearing loss properly, it can decline at a more rapid rate.
Why Is it Important to Visit an Audiologist for Hearing Aids?
As the old saying goes, you get what you pay for. Buying over-the-counter devices might seem like it’s worth the price tag, but scheduling a consultation for hearing aids with a hearing care professional includes the following:
- Hearing Test – A professional hearing test conducted by an audiologist includes physically examining the ears to ensure the patient’s hearing loss isn’t caused by earwax or another obstruction in the ear canal that would need immediate medical attention.
- Features – Your hearing care professional will go over all your options for features, explaining each in detail.
- Styles – Some hearing aid styles are more aesthetically pleasing than others, but they could be inappropriate for your type and degree of hearing loss. Our hearing care professionals will help you choose the most suitable style for your needs.
- Volume – It’s essential to ensure your hearing aids are correctly calibrated for the necessary amplification. The risks of over and under-amplification are high, and you could make your hearing worse if they’re not correctly programmed.
- Settings – Fitting a patient for hearing aids isn’t a simple process. Our hearing care professionals have years of experience fitting patients for hearing aids so they can enjoy their devices to the fullest.
- Further Support – Once you’re fitted for custom hearing aids, you need to schedule regular checkups with a hearing care professional to test your hearing, maintain your devices, and recalibrate them as needed. We’re here to help each step of the way.
Contact True North Hearing Today to Learn More
When you buy over-the-counter hearing aids, who can you turn to for support once they’re purchased? When you’re custom-fit for prescription hearing aids at True North Hearing, we’ll stay by your side from the moment you schedule your first hearing test. If you experience any issues with your devices, all it takes is a quick call to our office to get your hearing aids up and running again. Our hearing care professionals are committed to ensuring you get the full value from your investment in new hearing aids. We proudly offer comprehensive audiology services at our hearing care centers located in Acton, MA and the surrounding areas. Contact us today to learn more or schedule an appointment to get started on your journey towards better hearing.
