3 Things to Expect When Using New Hearing Aids

These days, there are few better ways to restore or correct hearing loss than using modern hearing aids. With hearing aids, you'll be able to hear your loved ones, the wider world and even your favourite music with more clarity than before. However, despite all the benefits of hearing aids, it's normal to feel daunted by the prospect of using them. Thankfully, you can alleviate these worries by preparing accordingly for what to expect in advance. Here are three possible issues you may run into when you first start using new hearing aids.

1. Brief initial discomfort 

It shouldn't come as a surprise that having something in your ear that wasn't there before can cause some minor initial discomfort. There are many small and ergonomic hearing aids on the market that can reduce this discomfort, but all new hearing aid users will likely feel a sense of discomfort at first. Just remember that this feeling won't last forever. If you've ever worn glasses before, you can expect a similar reaction. At first, they can feel like a nuisance and difficult to get used to, but in no time at all, you won't be able to imagine your life without them. That said, keep in mind that while slight discomfort is expected, you should never feel any pain because of your hearing aid. If you do, you should contact your audiologist as soon as possible to get a better fitting.

2. Interference with digital devices around you 

If you have never worn hearing aids before, then you might be surprised to learn that they can interfere with digital devices around you —particularly mobile phones. Many hearing aids won't have this problem, but there are also many that will. To prepare for this, consider changing the way you use your phone. Holding it to your ear may be a problem, but using over-ear headphones or putting your phone on its loudspeaker setting should eliminate the problem. Alternatively, talk to your audiologist in advance about finding a hearing aid that doesn't pose interference problems. 

3. The occlusion effect 

The occlusion effect happens when hearing aid users experience slight trouble hearing themselves while wearing them. Their own voice may sound louder, quieter or distorted compared to what the user would expect. This issue is more common with in-ear hearing aids as they sit inside the ear canal, blocking the canal more than a hearing aid that fits behind your ear would. Often, you'll find yourself getting used to your voice sounding different within a few days of getting a new hearing aid. However, if the issue persists, your audiologist should be able to reduce it by adjusting your hearing aid's settings. 

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