Are you considering a hearing aid for yourself or a loved one? Dr. Andrew Parker of Parker Ear, Nose, & Throat of Fairfield County, located in Norwalk, CT, is ready to help choose the right hearing aid for you.

If you feel like you frequently cannot understand what others are saying, or maybe it just isn't as straightforward as it used to be, that can be very frustrating. You may be experiencing hearing loss.

If you feel you might be ready for a hearing aid, here are the steps you need to take to restore your hearing.

Step 1: Visit a Hearing Specialist

At Parker Ear, Nose, & Throat of Fairfield County, located in Norwalk, CT, Dr. Parker and his team of hearing specialists assess your hearing. When you have your exam, you should prepare to tell the doctor if you have any ringing in your ears, balance issues, or trouble hearing. They will then evaluate your hearing, discuss their findings, and then review the next steps.

If Dr. Parker finds a possible medical problem causing the hearing loss, Dr. Parker will assess and create the best plan of care to treat the issue.

Step 2: Undergo a Hearing Test

Dr. Parker will perform a comprehensive evaluation of your hearing, how it impacts your daily life, and to what extent.

Step 3: Follow the Treatment Recommendations

If Dr. Parker determines a hearing or balance problem, he will recommend appropriate follow-up.

You will also undergo a hearing needs assessment. At this consultation appointment, you will discuss the various types of hearing devices available. Then, together, you and the doctor will decide which hearing devices best fit your lifestyle, communication needs, and budget.

Step 4: Choosing the Right Hearing Aid

There is a wide range of options available to you with hearing aids. There are two main types of hearing aids: analog and digital hearing aids.

Analog Hearing Aids

This particular hearing aid converts sound waves into electric signals and then amplifies them so you can hear them better. These are generally less expensive and are simple to use.

Digital Hearing Aids

With digital hearing aids, they are converting sound waves into numerical codes, then amplifying them. The code contains information about the direction of a sound, pitch, and volume making it easier to adjust the sound to what you need. Most even adjust automatically. They are typically more expensive but are smaller and more powerful.

Each type of hearing aid is available both in-the-ear (ITE) and behind-the-ear (BTE). You may also need a wax guard for your hearing aid because wearing hearing aids can cause earwax build-up.

When you are ready to take back your hearing, call Dr. Parker with Parker Ear, Nose, & Throat of Fairfield County, located in Norwalk, CT, to discuss hearing aids and how they can help via phone at (203) 866-8121.