Frequently Asked Questions

A comprehensive hearing test typically takes 30-60 minutes, depending on the tests needed and your individual hearing condition. The provider will explain each step of the process and answer any questions you have.

No, hearing tests are completely painless and non-invasive. They typically involve listening to sounds through headphones and responding when you hear them. Some tests may also examine your ear canal and eardrum using specialized equipment, but these are gentle and shouldn't cause any discomfort.

For adults, hearing test frequency recommendations vary by age and risk factors:

• Ages 18-40: Every 3-5 years, especially if you work in noisy environments
• Ages 41-60: Every 2-3 years
• Ages 60+: Annually

Those with existing hearing loss, a family history of hearing problems, or who work in noisy environments should consider more frequent testing.

Many insurance plans cover diagnostic hearing tests, especially when ordered by a physician. Coverage varies by provider and plan. The providers in our network can verify your coverage before your appointment. Some providers also offer self-pay options with transparent pricing if your insurance doesn't cover the test.

When attending your hearing test appointment, bring the following items:

• Photo ID
• Insurance card (if applicable)
• List of current medications
• Medical history, especially related to ear problems
• Referral from your doctor (if you have one)
• Any previous hearing test results (if available)

Hearing aid prices vary widely based on technology level, features, and provider services. Basic models may start around $1,000 per ear, while premium devices with advanced features can cost $3,000-$5,000 per ear. Most providers in our network offer different technology levels to accommodate various budgets and needs. Many also offer financing options to help make hearing aids more affordable.

With proper care and maintenance, most hearing aids last 5-7 years. However, technology advances quickly, and many people choose to upgrade sooner to take advantage of new features. Regular cleaning and maintenance by the user and professional check-ups can extend the life of hearing aids.

Hearing aids significantly improve hearing and communication ability, but they don't restore hearing to "normal" like glasses can restore vision. They amplify sounds to make them audible but cannot replace the natural function of a healthy ear. Today's advanced devices are very effective at enhancing speech understanding and reducing background noise, which greatly improves quality of life.

Adjustment to hearing aids typically takes 2-4 weeks as your brain adapts to processing sounds it hasn't heard in a while. Most providers recommend a gradual wearing schedule, starting with a few hours per day in quiet environments and gradually increasing wear time and introducing more complex listening situations. Follow-up appointments to fine-tune the devices are an important part of the adjustment process.

Most modern hearing aids are water-resistant rather than fully waterproof. They can withstand sweat and light rain but should not be submerged in water. Some models offer higher levels of water resistance (IP68 rating) that provide better protection against moisture and dust. For swimming or water activities, special waterproof covers are available, or you might consider specialized swim hearing protection.

Common signs of hearing loss include:

• Frequently asking people to repeat themselves
• Turning up the TV or radio volume louder than others prefer
• Difficulty understanding conversations in noisy environments
• Trouble hearing high-pitched sounds (like women's or children's voices)
• Feeling like others are mumbling
• Difficulty hearing on the telephone
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Social withdrawal from conversations or activities

If you experience any of these signs, a hearing test is recommended.

While some hearing loss is not preventable (such as age-related or genetic causes), noise-induced hearing loss can be prevented by:

• Wearing appropriate hearing protection in noisy environments (concerts, workplace noise, power tools)
• Keeping music volume at moderate levels, especially when using headphones
• Following the 60/60 rule: listen at no more than 60% volume for no more than 60 minutes at a time
• Taking breaks from prolonged noise exposure
• Maintaining overall health through regular exercise and a balanced diet
• Avoiding smoking, which can increase the risk of hearing loss

Tinnitus is the perception of sound (often ringing, buzzing, or hissing) when no external sound is present. It affects millions of people and is often associated with hearing loss, noise exposure, or certain medical conditions.

While there's no cure for most forms of tinnitus, there are many effective management strategies:

• Hearing aids with tinnitus masking features
• Sound therapy using white noise or other soothing sounds
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT)
• Relaxation techniques
• Avoiding triggers (like caffeine or loud noise) that worsen symptoms

Our network includes providers who specialize in tinnitus management.

Age-related hearing loss (presbycusis) is common, affecting about one-third of adults between 65 and 74 and nearly half of those over 75. However, it's not inevitable for everyone. Genetics, lifetime noise exposure, certain medical conditions, and lifestyle factors all influence whether someone will experience significant hearing loss with age.

Even when age-related hearing loss does occur, modern technology offers excellent solutions to help maintain communication ability and quality of life. The key is to address hearing changes promptly rather than considering them an unavoidable part of aging that must be endured.

Yes, excessive earwax (cerumen) can cause temporary hearing loss by blocking the ear canal. Symptoms of earwax buildup include:

• Sudden or partial hearing loss
• Feeling of fullness in the ear
• Earache or discomfort
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ear)
• Itchiness in the ear canal

It's important not to attempt to remove impacted earwax yourself using cotton swabs, which can push wax deeper into the canal. Professional earwax removal by a healthcare provider is the safest approach. Many hearing care professionals offer earwax management as part of their services.