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The most common form of hearing loss is sensorineural loss, often called “nerve loss.” It happens when the inner ear does not properly transmit signals to the brain. Hearing loss can be caused by prolonged exposure to loud noises, aging, heredity, as well as certain illnesses and medications.
One of every 11 Americans currently has some degree of hearing loss. For those aged 65 or older, the ratio is almost one in three.
Get a professional hearing examination from a Doctor of Audiology.
Why should I go to an audiologist and not a hearing aid dealer? An Audiologist is a hearing health care professional who has spent years studying the ear and treatment of ear-related problems. On the other hand, a hearing aid dealer is a person who has been trained for a short period of time on hearing instruments. A hearing aid dealer is not trained to treat hearing problems and offers very little follow-up care.
Since hearing loss is gradual, you may have become unaccustomed to normal environmental sounds such as traffic noise, the hum of the refrigerator or air conditioner, nature sounds or backyard conversation. When you begin to wear hearing instruments you will need to reeducate your brain to practice “selective listening” and filter out the background sounds. It is important to wear your hearing aids as much as possible to get used to them. We consider this adjustment period as critical as the initial testing and selection. We spend whatever time is needed to make the transition a smooth one and help you become comfortable with your hearing instruments. And we’re here to answer all of your questions as well as offering help and support. We also offer a 45-day hearing aid trial period.
Many consumers are still uncertain where to find professional help for their hearing problems. Recent reports showing low consumer satisfaction are further evidence that selling has often taken precedence over care and service in the dispensing and fitting of hearing aids. That’s why you should purchase your hearing aids frim an audiologist. Clinical audiologists are the hearing care professionals. They are required to hold at least a master’s degree in audiology, and a few, like myself, hold a clinical doctorate degree in audiology. We are trained to understand your hearing health needs. Hearing instruments are only a part of the total hearing rehabilitation process.
Not all hearing aids are created equal. Even though they look alike, it’s what’s inside that makes the difference in both features and price. It was only the early 1990’s that hearing technology changed for the better---when computer-programming technology was introduced to the industry. Traditionally, the least expensive hearing aids basically amplified sound. Today the more expensive hearing aids automatically convert sound waves into digital codes before amplifying the signal into a clearer, more comfortable sound. When you buy your hearing aids, I always explain the differences in technologies and give you choices based on your hearing loss, lifestyle, and price range.
That’s a relative question. From the comments I receive each day, I would say that my patients are satisfied with their hearing aids and the personalized care I provide them in managing their hearing loss. I believe that also has improved the quality of their lives. The largest study of its kind ever conducted by the National Council on Aging found that ignoring a hearing loss can lead to depression in one’s life as compared to those who took action and purchased hearing aids. As a hearing aid user, I truly believe hearing well definitely improves your life.
Hearing aids require more attention because they are miniaturized devices that contain at least a microphone, speaker, amplifier, battery, and, insome cases, a microchip. They’re often used for longer periods each day than other electronic devices, and, also, are subjected to harsher environments including exposure in the ear canal to earwax and perspiration. I go over proper cleaning and maintenance procedures with all of my patients to help them sustain the life of their hearing aids.
You should wear two hearing aids for maximum benefit even if yo0u have hearing loss in one ear more than the other. Our brains are “wired” by design to receive sould information from two ears working together. The many advatages of emulating this natural system include:
Much improved ability to localize the sould source.
Improved speech understanding in background noise.
Balanced hearing
Less fatigue. ( It is much more tiring when one ear is attempting to do the work of two.)
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See what others are saying...
"I have been a patient of Cathy Martine's since 1990. She has always looked out for my best interest. She has helped to save me money on the purchase of hearing aids. When digital was first starting, she encouraged me to stick with my analog aids due to price concerns. I now have two behind the ear digital aids that are wonderful. Whenever I have any problems with the aids, she and her staff are very helpful in making sure that if repairs need to be made (out of office) that I get a loaner aid so that I can continue my life.
I could not ask for a better doctor/patient relationship. Thanks for everything."
- Steven R. Sharp
"I want to thank everyone at Carolina Hearing Services, Inc. The entire staff was very friendly and most helpful in every possible way. The difference my hearing aids have made in my life is unbelievable. I can hear things I have not been able to hear in a long time, and the hearing aids are easy to wear and are very comfortable.
I recommend Carolina Hearing Services, Inc., for anyone with a hearing loss."
- Barbara McConaughy
"I have been suffering from hearing loss for fifty years---since serving in the Army before the days of ear protection through years of business meetings and public life where speaking and hearing are clearly crucial. Thanks to Catherine's skill and her expert staff, I have a new and fine-tuned set of hearing aids and am acquiring the discipline to recover the joy of hearing. It is actually fun to visit Carolina Hearing for adjustments or batteries and fun conversation as well. Even her three dachshunds are pleasant.
I now have fewer misunderstandings with family and friends; greater enjoyment of concerts, movies, and, yes, even TV; and I don't have to repeatedly say, "Excuse me."
If you have hearing issues, talk to Carolina Hearing about them."
- Alex McMillan