Frequently Asked Questions

- Hearing loss can be caused by a variety of factors, this can include trauma, ageing, exposure to loud noises, genetics or family history, infections, some medications and certain medical conditions. At Sonant Hearing Clinic, following a review of your medical history and hearing assessment results we can sometimes advise on the cause of the hearing loss.

How can I tell if I have a hearing loss?

- There might be greater difficulty with understanding conversations in noisy backgrounds, difficulty understanding speech from the speaker if their face isn’t visible, frequent situations where information has been misheard according to family or friends, often asking others to repeat themselves, needing to increase the volume for sound on devices. Tinnitus on some occasions, presents itself for lengthier periods.

Can hearing loss be prevented?

-Not all hearing loss can be prevented, hearing loss caused by loud noise can be avoided with hearing protection e.g. custom noise protection ear plugs. Hearing loss as a result of ear infections can be prevented with swimming ear plugs.

Managing hearing conditions that can predispose one to a hearing loss e.g. stroke, diabetes can also help reduce the risk. At Sonant Hearing Clinic, we provide custom swimming and noise protection plugs contoured for a precise fit within your ears. (Link - Custom hearing protection)

Can children have hearing loss?

- Yes, children can experience hearing loss due to various factors. These factors can be congenital, genetic, infections, or exposure to loud sounds. Early detection and intervention of hearing loss in children is important for speech and language development. (Link - Children's Hearing Test )

What are the signs of hearing loss in children?

- The child might not respond to their names being called. They may show difficulty following directions, may present with unclear speech, or show limited engagement with conversations. The child might request louder volume when watching TV shows.

How can I communicate better with someone who has hearing loss?

- Try and provide additional visual information by always facing the person when speaking to them, reducing background noise when speaking to them , and use visual cues or gestures. Be patient. It may also help to repeat or rephrase what you’re saying if needed.

What is the difference between conductive and sensori-neural hearing loss?

- Conductive hearing loss involves problems in the outer or middle ear affecting sound transmission, while sensorineural hearing loss is due to damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve. A conductive hearing loss can sometimes be treated and be reversible. A conductive and sensorineural loss can sometimes occur at the same time.

How does aging affect hearing?

- Typically from around the age of 60 (for some earlier/later) the hair cells in the inner ear gradually deteriorate in function. This leads to a slow loss of hearing that initially affects the audibility of high-frequency sounds. It becomes harder to follow conversations, especially in noisy environments. Often the person experiencing these changes may not realise these changes are occurring until family and friends raise concerns.

Is hearing loss hereditary?

- Some types of hearing loss can have a genetic component. A family history of hearing loss from a younger age (loss not influenced by noise or trauma) can increase the likelihood of one also experiencing similar.

Are there any lifestyle changes I can make to support my hearing health?

- Yes, maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking, and protecting your ears from loud noises can all support good hearing health.

What are the potential complications of untreated hearing loss?

- Untreated hearing loss can increase the risk for cognitive decline (including memory problems, Alzheimer's disease, Dementia ). Untreated hearing loss can lead to social isolation and depression as one withdraws from social interactions due to difficulty with communication. There is a higher risk of missed opportunities and loss in earnings, and promotions for those in employment with untreated hearing loss.

Can hearing loss be temporary?

- Yes, some types of hearing loss can be temporary, these are typically conductive hearing losses such as those caused by ear infections, wax buildup or acute otitis media. Timely treatment of these conditions can help restore hearing.

What is an audiogram, and how do I read it?

An audiogram is a graphical representation of hearing test results. It shows the softest sounds you can hear against various frequencies. An audiologist can help explain the results.

What should I do if I think I have hearing loss?

- You can contact us at Sonant Hearing Clinic to arrange an appointment with an audiologist for a hearing assessment. The hearing assessment will help establish the cause and possible treatment options. (Hearing Test Assessment for Hearing Aids )

Can loud music cause permanent hearing loss?

- Yes, exposure to loud music can cause noise-induced hearing loss, which can be permanent. In some cases, the exposure doesn’t have to be prolonged. Levels of sound in excess of 80dB can be harmful to one’s hearing. Take care not to supersede recommended levels on your audio devices (some devices issue prompt/notifications issuing warnings on loud levels) and use ear protection if you anticipate being in a loud environment . (Link - Custom Ear protection)

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS ON HEARING AIDS

What types of hearing aids are available?

- Types of hearing aids include: behind-the-ear (BTE), in-the-ear (ITE), in-the-canal (ITC), and completely-in-canal (CIC) devices. Each type has different features and benefits. Some hearing aids work better for specific types of hearing losses. This is where an audiologist at Sonant Hearing Clinic can guide you to select the best kind of hearing aid for your hearing loss. (Link – Types of hearing aids)

How can I select the best hearing aid?

- To select the best hearing aid, you will need to consider various factors. These factors include your type and degree of hearing loss, your lifestyle, your preference and your budget. At Sonant Hearing Clinic, the Audiologist can help you select the best hearing aid to suit your needs and help you ensure that it continues to suit your needs. (Link – selecting the smallest hearing aid)

Are there any side effects of wearing hearing aids?

- Initial effects may include one’s voice sounding different. This own voice effect can dissipates over time, some users might be sensitive to the sensation of the device within or behind their ear i.e. like a new pair of shoes. Some users’ experience itchiness initially. Other times the itchiness subsides by itself. Regular follow-up appointments with an audiologist can help address these or any other issues from wearing hearing aids. (Link - Itchy ears with hearing aids )

How can I care for my hearing aids?

- Follow the advice given by your audiologist and the information given in your hearing aid user guide. Keep up with your hearing appointments regularly to ensure that your hearing aids are serviced properly. Proper care would typically include regular cleaning of the aid, filters and microphones, keeping the hearing aids dry, changing batteries as needed and keeping the hearing aid charger clean.

How long do hearing aids last?

- With good care hearing aids typically last 3 to 5 years, depending on length of usage, rechargeable battery life span and frequency of maintenance. Regular check-ups with your audiologist can help ensure they are functioning optimally.

What financial assistance is available for hearing aids?

- At Sonant Hearing Clinic we have solutions available for varying budgets. We also provide monthly payment plan options. Feel free to contact us to discuss the options available. (Link - Prices)

Are there assistive listening devices besides hearing aids?

- Yes, assistive listening devices include remote microphones (clip ons or table style ) FM systems, TV and audio device sound streamers, loop systems, and amplified telephones. These devices can enhance sound for various individual situations. Some assistive listening devices can be used in isolation while some would need to be paired to hearing aids.

What should I do if my hearing aid is not working properly?

- Check the filters for wax build up, clean the device, and ensure it’s properly fitted. If issues persist, consult your audiologist for troubleshooting or repairs. (Link - Hearing Aid Repairs)

Are there any new technologies in hearing aids?

- Yes, new hearing technologies are released almost yearly across different brands. We at Sonant Hearing Clinic always have access to these and will keep you abreast of these changes especially if you become one of our clients. We offer annual hearing reviews to our clients and use this opportunity to show clients latest hearing technology available.

Hearing Aid Adjusting or Programming

Hearing Aids Aftercare

Hearing Aid Tests Assessments at Sonant Hearing Clinic

Itchy Ears Wearing Hearing Aids

NHS Aids Vs Private Aids

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS ON HEARING TESTS/ASSESSMENTS

How often should I have my hearing tested?

- Having an initial baseline (first) hearing test is recommended at any adult age. We would suggest you have a hearing test if under 50 every 3-5 years. If over 60 years, then every 1-2 years. If there is a genetic history of hearing loss, exposure to loud noise in your occupation, recreational hobby, or if at risk of a hearing loss then we would recommend a hearing test every year.

For high-level noise exposure occupations, most employers would arrange hearing test for their employees unless you are self-employed. If there is a diagnosis of dementia then one should have their hearing assessed every year. (Link – What is your Baseline hearing)

What should I expect during a hearing assessment?

- Hearing assessments typically includes a number of tests to assess your hearing sensitivity. At Sonant Hearing Clinic, Kent we take your medical history, then assess your hearing with pure-tone audiometry, speech audiometry tests and tympanometry. (Link - More on what to expect during your hearing assessment)

Free Tests at Sonant Hearing Clinic

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS ON TINNITUS

What is tinnitus, and how is it treated?

- Tinnitus is usually the perception of sound (such as ringing or buzzing) in the ears or head when no external sound is present. There is one type of tinnitus audible to an external listener (this is a rare clicking sound caused by contractions of the soft palate tissue and can be audible to another listener). Treatment options for tinnitus include sound therapy, counselling, relaxation techniques and in some cases, hearing aids. (Link - Tinnitus Assessments at Sonant Hearing Clinic)