Your initial hearing aid fitting appointment is an essential step in your hearing loss journey. However, your treatment doesn’t end there. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends that you have a follow-up appointment 6 to 12 weeks after your initial hearing aid fitting.
Why Is a Follow-up Appointment Important?
You and your audiologist will work together to find a pair of hearing aids that work well for you and have a good fit during your initial appointment. However, there are certain issues that may only become noticeable after having real-world experience.
Without a follow-up appointment, these issues don’t get resolved. Even small issues can turn into major frustrations over time. This can lead people to wear their hearing aids infrequently or not at all.
Consequences of Untreated Hearing Loss
If you stop wearing your hearing aids and let your hearing loss go untreated, it can lead to more than missed conversations. Additional consequences may include:
- Higher levels of anxiety and depression
- Increased risk of balance issues and injuries from falls
- Less confidence at work or in social situations
- Added strain to your relationships
- Social isolation
- Cognitive decline and dementia
Discuss Any Problems With Your Audiologist
When you get hearing aids, your ears and brain have to adjust to a new way of hearing. This naturally comes with a few growing pains. Keep a list of anything that bothers you or you wish could be improved and bring it in with you to your follow-up appointment. Some examples of things you’d want to mention might include:
- If your hearing aid feels loose or uncomfortable in your ears
- You’re experiencing a lot of feedback in your device
- You’re having trouble connecting to Bluetooth™ or changing the settings
- Sounds seem uncomfortably loud in busier environments like Eastland Mall
By sharing this information with your audiologist, you give them the opportunity to make any adjustments that might be needed.
In some cases, the issues you’re experiencing may just be a result of needing more time to get used to your device. Your audiologist can offer reassurance along with tips or resources to help you feel more comfortable and confident using your hearing aids.
For additional information or to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists, contact Hearing Healthcare Center, Inc. today.