Why is it important to treat hearing loss?
Untreated hearing loss can negatively affect your quality of life. As communication problems increase, you might find yourself excluded from conversations or growing more isolated and withdrawn. You’re also at risk of cognitive decline, as well as:
- Feelings of helplessness
- Frustration or depression
- A loss of independence
In addition to hearing aids, Hill Country Ear, Nose & Throat provides rehabilitation techniques and education to support family members as well.
How is hearing loss evaluated?
Hill Country Ear, Nose & Throat uses the latest in computerized, digital technology to assess and serve both adult and pediatric patients. Hearing tests include:
- Word recognition testing
- Tympanometry to test the function of the middle ear
- Pure-tone air and bone conduction threshold testing
Following your comprehensive diagnostic audiology assessment, a licensed audiologist discusses your personalized treatment plan and hearing aid options. This discussion takes into consideration the nature and degree of your hearing impairment, as well as your activity level, socialization, dexterity, and financial resources.
What types of hearing aids are available?
Hearing loss and hearing aid experiences are highly individual and can’t be treated with a “one-size-fits-all” approach. Hill Country Ear, Nose & Throat works with the industry’s best hearing aid manufacturers to provide devices that fit every lifestyle, and even offers hearing aids that are iPhone and Bluetooth compatible.
Hearing aid options include:
- Receiver-in-canal (RIC): sits snugly behind the ear and connects to the ear with a nearly invisible thin wire connecting to a tiny speaker in the ear canal
- Open behind-the-ear (BTE): attaches to a slim tube which directs sound into the ear
- Behind-the-ear (BTE): amplified sound travels down a tube to a customized earmold that fits securely into the ear
- Full shell (ITE): custom-made to fit securely in your outer ear
- Half shell (ITE): custom-made to fit securely in your outer ear, smaller than full shell ITEs
- In-the-canal (ITC): nearly unnoticeable, custom-made to fit inside the external ear canal
- Completely-in-the-canal (CIC): one of the smallest hearing aids available, the CIC fits deeply inside the ear canal, making it almost invisible
Hill Country Ear, Nose & Throat offers a 75-day trial period to fine-tune your device and see if it fits your needs. During the trial period, if you’re not satisfied with your hearing aids, they can be returned for a refund of nearly the entire purchase price.
It’s never too late to start enjoying communication that’s important to you again. Call or schedule an appointment online today.
