4 FAQs About OTC Hearing Aids

If you’re considering purchasing over-the-counter hearing aids, you probably have a lot of questions. From what these devices are to who they are designed for, getting your questions answered is critical to finding the right hearing aids for your specific needs. When talking to your audiologist about your options, consider the following frequently asked questions to help you find a solution!

What Are Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids?

Over-the-counter hearing aids (OTC) are hearing devices that do not require a prescription from a licensed audiologist. They are available for purchase without a professional evaluation of your hearing loss. However, you must be 18 years or older to purchase OTC hearing aids.

Some people with self-perceived mild-to-moderate hearing loss may benefit from using an OTC hearing aid. However, it’s important to note that these devices are not meant to treat all types of hearing loss.

How Do Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids Work?

Over-the-counter hearing aids are small, lightweight devices that sit behind the ear and amplify sound. They use a battery to power a tiny amplifier, which makes sounds louder. The amplified sound is then sent into the ear canal through a small earbud or dome.

How well an over-the-counter hearing aid works depends on many factors, including the type and severity of your hearing loss, how much noise is in your environment and whether you wear them correctly. In general, though, over-the-counter hearing aids can help you hear better in both quiet and noisy environments.

Why Should I See an Audiologist Before Getting Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids?

There are a few reasons why you should consult with an audiologist before purchasing an over-the-counter hearing aids. An audiologist can perform a comprehensive hearing evaluation to determine whether you have hearing loss and the what the severity of your hearing loss is.

Second, even if you do have hearing loss, over-the-counter hearing aids may not be the best option for you. Depending on the severity of your hearing loss, prescription hearing aids may be necessary.

They can help you choose the right hearing aid for your specific needs. There are many different types and brands of prescription hearing aids on the market and it can be overwhelming trying to choose the right one. An audiologist will take into account your lifestyle, budget and type of hearing loss when making recommendations.

Are Prescription Hearing Aids Better Than Over-The-Counter Hearing Aids?

There are a few key differences between prescription and over-the-counter hearing aids. Prescription hearing aids are custom fit to the individual, while over-the-counter hearing aids are not. It’s also true that prescription hearing aids are programmed by an audiologist based on a comprehensive hearing test, while over-the-counter hearing aids are not.

Overall, prescription hearing aids may be the better option for you than over-the-counter hearing aids. However, over-the-counter hearing aids may be a good option for people who have self-perceived mild-to-moderate hearing loss and do not want to go through the process of getting a prescription. So, talk to your audiologist about what hearing aids may be the best for you and your hearing needs.