When you first notice that you're experiencing a problem with your hearing, you're likely assessing how to get a hold of hearing aids to enhance your hearing. While you can go to an audiologist who can assess your hearing and recommend customized hearing aids, that's not your only option. There are over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids that you could potentially utilize.

OTC Hearing Devices

You may have noticed that there are hearing devices available in your local drug store and online. While these may be falsely categorized as hearing aids, they're actually amplifiers. These personal sound amplifying products can help individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss.

OTC hearing amplifiers can be significantly cheaper than purchasing hearing aids from an audiologist. However, it's important to note that these devices are not customized. This means that the settings can't be specifically alerted to help amplify the types of sound waves that you specifically have difficulty hearing. Therefore, OTC hearing devices are a kind of hit-or-miss option for those with hearing loss.

Hearing Aids From an Audiologist

Much like everything in life, you get what you pay for. When you opt for going to a licensed audiologist, you're getting professional care and examinations. They can identify what specific type of hearing loss you have and which sound waves you're having difficulty with. From this assessment, they can recommend the most optimal hearing aid to assist you.

Hearing aids purchased from audiologists are digital. They're individually fitted to create a custom fit in the user's ear. They're also programmed specifically for the user's type of hearing loss. These types of hearing aids come with a warranty and follow-up appointments with an audiologist to ensure that they're working correctly for you. It's generally noted that hearing aids ordered through an audiologist will be more expensive than those you can purchase over the counter. Fortunately, you can opt-in for affordable financing.

What is the Best Option For You?

After reading about both types of hearing devices, it becomes clear that getting hearing aids from an audiologist is your best option. These allow for customization that OTC hearing devices do not. They don't just amplify all the sounds around you. Instead, they can be programmed to amplify the specific sound waves that you have difficulty hearing.

One of the drawbacks of getting hearing aids from an audiologist, for most buyers, is the price. It's true that they can cost significantly more. However, it also becomes apparent why they're at a higher price point as you learn what they can do as opposed to just over the OTC options. You shouldn't let the price hold you back from getting the hearing aids that you need. You can talk with one of our specialists about insurance coverage, financing, and other budget-friendly options that can be made available to you.

Contact Us Today

If you're currently experiencing hearing loss, contact us at Beltone Dallas Fort Worth today. Our licensed audiologists will assess your hearing and make recommendations of the best hearing aids to meet your needs.

Resources:
https://www.ccentsinus.com/blog-hearing-aid-differences.html
https://www.healthyhearing.com/report/53233-Otc-hearing-aids-over-the-counter-devices