What Does A Hearing Instrument Specialist Do to Fix Hearing Aids?

Hearing loss isn't as permanent as it was several decades ago – the advancement of technology has not only proved invaluable to countless industries, but has also made significant strides to hearing aids. Hearing aids rely on digital technology, enhancing sounds much clearer and fading out background noise to better distinguish sounds. 

Hearing loss is caused when components of the auditory system aren't functioning correctly, causing insufficient sound travel through the ear. Millions of people live with hearing loss every day. With the way technology and industry-leading experts are pushing the boundaries to find new and innovative ways to cope with hearing loss, it has become much easier to adapt and continue to live your life as you did previously. 

What is an hearing instrument specialist (HIS)? 

An HIS manages an individual's hearing, deafness, hearing impairment, and also the ear's noise control and management. They use creative problem-solving techniques, technology and a range of other social skills to help a person adapt to hearing loss. As a result, they are able to communicate better with the people around them. They are excellent at equipping you with the tools and skills you need to be able to communicate with other people optimally. An audiologist's key traits are their patience, compassion, social and communicative skills, and they are a great option to consider when faced with hearing impairment. 

What does an HIS do to fix hearing aids?

Your hearing instrument specialist will custom-fit a hearing aid to your specific hearing loss requirements, utilizing additional assistive technology to optimize the listening experience. Even though hearing aids are one of the best tools you can use to maximize your hearing, they can sometimes glitch or need repair due to general wear and tear, just like any other device. 

Some damages may occur to certain parts of the hearing aid after being worn for a long time, like the tubing that runs around the ear may need replacing from time to time, for example. Common issues you may experience with your hearing aids may include low or no sound at all, as well as a whistling noise or static. Your hearing specialist will be able to evaluate these issues to determine the proper adjustment or repair needed to restore your device. 

What are the different styles of hearing aids?

Hearing aids can differ based on style, size and equipped features. Styles of hearing aids include:

• In the canal (ITC): This style of hearing aid molds perfectly in the ear canal and is suitable for moderate hearing loss. They are also less visible than most other hearing aid styles.
• Behind the ear (BTE): These hearing aids fit behind your ear and are connected with the earpiece with a tube. Thanks to modern technology, newer BTE hearing aids are barely visible anymore and are appropriate for all ages and hearing loss types.
• In the ear (ITE): Custom made with different shell options, these hearing aids can fit either the entire outer ear bowl or only the lower half. They are straightforward to handle and also have a longer battery life.

Hearing instrument specialists are there to assist you with any hearing-related situation you may have, whether you need your hearing tested or want to learn more about hearing aids.