What to Expect at Your Hearing Aid Fitting

Your hearing aid fitting is something to look forward to as you’ll be getting that little bit closer to improving your hearing problems. Having said this, some people can find it a daunting time if they are not sure what to expect on the day. Rest assured, there’s nothing to worry about, and you’ll be made entirely comfortable by your audiologist throughout the procedure. 

Your hearing aid will need to be fitted to your ears properly so that you can gain the precise size and the necessary amplification that you need. Before the fitting, your audiologist will conduct a test which is designed to measure the quietest sound that you can distinguish. Your audiologist will test the sounds that you can hear at various pitches and then record which sounds are appropriate or too loud. Your audiologist will be able to use these tests to provide you with the correct hearing aid for your needs. 

What can I expect? 

You can expect that your hearing aid fitting should take anywhere between one and two hours. Your audiologist will show you how you put in your hearing aid and also how you can remove it. Your audiologist will also ensure that the fit is correct. After this, the hearing aid will be programed so that it is on the correct setting that’s appropriate for your hearing needs.

Real Ear Measurement will be used to ensure the correct level of amplification. The procedure involves a thin tube that is then gently put inside your ear canal. Your audiologist will then connect this tube to a microphone which can detect and measure the sound present without the hearing aid. Your hearing aid will be inserted with the microphone still in place. A measurement will be taken of how loud the sound is with the hearing aid. 

Your audiologist will ensure that the earmold is tight enough. You’ll be asked questions about the fit and feel throughout the process. Be sure to voice your honest opinions to gain the best fit and audio settings. Take your time to consider how the device feels inside your ear and if it’s too loose or tight. Express your thoughts so that your audiologist can help you. An earmold will have been taken of your ear beforehand so there shouldn't be any big issues in this department. 

Learning about your new device 

You will further be told how you can best take care of your device, including cleanliness and battery issues. Hearing aids are delicate, and so they do require a little general maintenance to keep them in the best shape. Your audiologist will give you all the information that you need to maintain your new device, along with any troubleshooting. Now is the time whereby you will want to ask any questions. It can be a good idea to think of any questions that you have beforehand. You might want to ask if any of your usual activities will require that you remove your hearing aid. Or perhaps ask if your hearing aid will be affected by any of the other technologies that you use at home. Take a little time to write down your questions before you arrive at a fitting. If there is anything that you forget to ask, you can always give your audiologist a call after the session and they will be happy to help you. 

Will I wear my hearing aid right away?

You will wear your hearing aid as soon as you receive it, you will likely be advised to keep it in for a few hours. Your audiologist will tell you how long you should keep your hearing aid in each day. Generally, such a schedule will involve gradually building up the time that you wear your hearing aid. You will likely take some adjusting to the newly amplified sounds, but this won’t take long at all. 

Your audiologist will take you through all that you need to know on the day. There is nothing that you will need to prepare besides considering any questions that you have. To learn more, you can call us at the Audiology and Hearing Aid Center using this phone number: (920) 486-6922. Our audiologists will be able to discuss your specific hearing problems and provide advice. Your hearing problems won’t bother you any longer, so this will help you find the right help for your needs.