| Q:
What is a hearing aid exactly? |
A: A hearing aid is an electronic device that picks
up sound waves with a tiny microphone. The microphone makes weaker
sounds louder and sends them to the ear through a tiny speaker.
Because a hearing aid is an amplification device, a person must
have some hearing to benefit from its use. In addition, because
hearing loss has a variety of patterns and degrees of severity
and affects people in different ways, no single hearing aid is
right for everyone. |
| |
| Q:
When should I consider getting an ear examination? |
A: Ear examinations are universally recommended by
the medical community to ensure there are no underlying diseases
or medical problems causing the hearing loss. A hearing loss may
be a symptom of another medical problem that needs a doctor's
attention. Also, the cause and severity of a hearing loss vary
widely from person to person. Have your hearing tested to assess
your ability to hear with and without a hearing aid. This test
will enable a dispenser or audiologist to select and fit a hearing
aid to your individual needs. |
| |
| Q:
Is there a trial period before I commit to one brand of hearing
aids? |
A: Many manufacturers, hearing specialists, and consumer
groups recommend, and some state laws require, that consumers
be given a trial period with only a small service fee [varying
from five to 20% of the purchase price] if the consumer returns
the product. A trial period is strong protection for such an important
purchase, so ask before you buy. Storm Lake Hearing Aid
Service provides a FREE 30-day trial period without any service
fees. |
