Hearing Healthcare and Summer

Q: Do I need one hearing aid or two?

If you have a significant hearing loss in both ears, you should be wearing two hearing aids. Here are the audiological reasons why: Localisation . The brain decodes information from both ears and compares and contrasts them. By analysing the miniscule time delays as well as the difference in loudness of each sound reaching the ears, the person is able to accurately locate a sound source. Simply put, if you have better hearing on one side than the other, you can't accurately tell what direction sounds are coming from. Less amplification required. A phenomena known as “binaural summation” means that the hearing aids can be set at a lower and more natural volume setting than than if you wore only one hearing aid. Head shadow effect. High frequencies, the part of your hearing that gives clarity and meaning to speech sounds, cannot bend around your head. Only low frequencies can. Therefore if someone is talking on your unaided side you are likely to hear that they are speaking, but be unable to tell what they have said. Noise reduction. The brain has it’s own built in noise reduction which is only really effective when it is receiving information from both ears. If only one ear is aided, even with the best hearing aid in the world, it will be difficult for you to hear in background noise as your brain is trying to retain all of the sounds (including background noise) rather than filtering it out. Sound quality. We are designed to hear in stereo. Only hearing from one side sounds a lot less natural to us.

Q: What are the benefits of rechargeable hearing aids?

For most people, the main benefit of a rechargeable hearing aid is simple convenience. We are used to plugging in our phones and other devices overnight for them to charge up. For anybody with poor dexterity or issues with their fingers, having a rechargeable aid makes a huge difference as normal hearing aid batteries are quite small and some people find them fiddly to change. One downside is that if you forget to charge your hearing aid, then it is a problem that can't be instantly fixed. For most a 30 minute charge will get you at least two or three hours of hearing, but if you are the type of person who is likely to forget to plug them in regularly then you're probably better off with standard batteries. Rechargeable aids are also a little bit bigger and are only available in behind the ear models. Finally, just like with a mobile phone, the amount of charge you get on day one is not going to be the same as you get a few years down the line. Be sure to ask what the policy is with the manufacturer warranty when it comes to replacing the battery.

Q: Are behind the ear aids better than in the ear aids?

For most people, the answer is yes. But it's never that simple. The majority of hearing problems affect the high frequencies a lot more than the low ones. Therefore open fitting hearing aids sound a lot more natural and ones that block your ears up can make your own voice sound like you are talking with your head in a bucket. Therefore in-ear aids tend to be less natural. However the true answer is we can't tell until we have had a look in your ears to assess the size of your ear canal, and until we have tested your hearing to see which frequencies are being affected. People with wider ear canals tend to have more flexibility, also there are open fitting modular CIC hearing aids now that do not block your ears. There is also the age old rule to consider, that a hearing aid will not help you if it's sat in the drawer gathering dust. If the only hearing aid you would be happy wearing is one that people can't see, then that's what you should get. Most people can adapt to any type of hearing aid, as long as they know what to expect. Have an honest conversation with your audiologist as to what your needs are.

Q: What are channels, and how many do I need?

Generally speaking, six or more. Unless it's none at all. The number of channels a hearing aid has is often a simplistic way an audiologist will use to explain why one hearing aid is better than another, but channels are complex and it is really not that straightforward. Hearing aids amplify sounds of different frequencies by different amounts. Most people have lost more high frequencies than low and therefore need more amplification in the high frequencies. The range of sounds you hear are split into frequency bands or channels and the hearing aids are set to provide the right amount of hearing at each frequency level. Less than six channels and this cannot be done with much accuracy, so six is the magic number. However, a six channel aid is typically very basic with few other features and is suitable only for hearing a single speaker in a quiet room. The number of channels is not what you should be looking at, it's more the rest of the technology that comes with them. As a final note, different manufacturers have different approaches. One method is not necessarily better than any other. For example some manufacturers have as many as 64 channels in their top aids. Most tend to have between 17 and 20. One manufacturer has no channels at all.

Q: Where can I get the hearing aids covered?

Hearing aids are easily lost, misplaced or damaged and typically are one of the most expensive personal possessions an individual can own. We offer hearing aid warranty cover for £80 per year per aid. Find out more here

Q: How much does the hearing test cost?

All our audiologists use the very latest technology and provide the full range of tests to accurately measure your hearing for free. Find out about what we offer all our customers here

Q: Do home visits cost extra?

Hearing Aid UK offers all their customers free home visiting services and home visits for hearing aids - Including hearing tests, fittings, maintenance, check-ups and much more in the comfort of your own home and at your convenience. Find out more information here

Q: How come you're much cheaper than other places?

Here, at Hearing Aid UK, we are dedicated to offering low hearing aid prices. We achieve this by having no head office and low marketing costs. Our hearing aid prices are amongst the lowest you will find anywhere in the world.

Hearing Healthcare in Summer

How to navigate the new season with hearing loss and hearing aids

Ear health in summer

Summer welcomes the start of outdoor socialising, water sports, adventures, holidays, and warmer weather. Due to the season's shift ear care is even more important for those with hearing loss.

The mix of rising temperatures, increased moisture, and water activities can make it more challenging to navigate the season whilst wearing hearing aids and keeping your ear health in check.

In this article, we explore such challenges, as well as tips on how to maintain your best ear health and keep your devices working as they should during the warmer months.

When to take extra care of your hearing health this summer

Water activities: Swimming, surfing, and other water sports become popular in warmer weather. Be mindful of your ear health in the water, it can lead to ear infections and other hearing issues if water enters the ear canal.

In high humidity and heat: High temperatures and humidity can create a breeding ground for bacteria and moisture buildup, which can affect both your ears and hearing aids. Make sure you have a regular cleaning regimen in place, especially if you wear hearing aids.

At loud events: The number of concerts, especially outdoor festivals we attend increases during the summer months, often involving exposure to loud noises. Such noises can damage your hearing, causing temporary (and under extreme circumstances permanent) noise-induced hearing loss and worsening tinnitus symptoms.

During outdoor activities: Spending more time outdoors increases the likelihood of encountering pollutants and allergens that can affect your hearing health. Take care to avoid dirt and dust particles building up in the ears. This can affect hearing aids, create a build-up of ear wax, and potentially lead to infection.

Hearing aids, humidity, and moisture

An increase in moisture can cause ear infections, especially for hearing aid wearers. This is because prolonged use of such devices causes moisture accumulation and/or earwax in the ear canal. Resulting in a great breeding ground for bacteria.

Improper cleaning of hearing aids or poor hygiene habits may further increase the risk of ear infections. This is why regular maintenance and care are essential while being mindful to not insert objects into your ear canal as this can cause more problems.

Most of our patients look to waterproof hearing aids, like Phonak Audeo Lumity Life, if they wear hearing aids and regularly partake in water sports during summer (and throughout the year). These hearing aids are Phonak's second-generation rechargeable waterproof hearing aids with proven Lumity technology.

They include health and data tracking and are designed to give peace of mind knowing that the devices are reliable, durable, and can keep up with active lifestyles. This hearing solution is something to consider if this sounds a bit like you.

Hearing Health in Summer

Preventing bad ear health

What is Swimmer's Ear and how can I prevent it?

Swimmer’s ear, or otitis externa, is an infection of the outer ear canal caused by water exposure. Here's our top tips to prevent Swimmer's Ear this Summer:

Use earplugs: Invest in waterproof earplugs designed for swimming to keep water out of your ears.
Dry your ears: After swimming, gently dry your ears with a towel and tilt your head to drain any excess water.
Avoid inserting objects: Avoid using cotton swabs or other objects to clean your ears, as they can push water further into the ear canal.

You can also protect your ears from ear infections by not swimming in polluted water. However, even with all the preventions in place, infections can occur. Contact your local GP if you are experiencing any ear pain, discharge, or a reduced ability to hear.

Remember hearing aids perform better when kept dry

Even if your hearing aids are sweatproof, or water-resistant, they still need to be kept dry and dust-free. Ensure you carry a soft cloth or a microfibre towel when on the go, to protect them from sweat and moisture.

To maintain an optimum hearing experience, get into the habit of wiping your hearing aids down at the end of the day. This will remove any unwanted moisture or debris build-up present.

Preventing moisture damage to hearing aids this summer

Moisture from sweat, humidity, and water activities can damage hearing aids, follow our quick tips below to get the best out of your devices:

Use a dehumidifier: Store your hearing aids in a dehumidifier overnight to remove moisture.
Wear a sweatband: Use a sweatband or hat to keep sweat away from your hearing aids during physical activities.
Waterproof covers: Consider using waterproof covers or sleeves for your hearing aids to protect them from moisture.

How to protect your hearing this Summer

Exposure to loud noises can cause noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). Here’s how to protect your ears if you are attending loud, outdoor events this summer:

Wear ear protection: Use earplugs or earmuffs at concerts, fireworks displays, and other loud events.
Maintain safe distances: Stay at a safe distance from loudspeakers and fireworks to reduce noise exposure.
Take breaks: Give your ears a break by stepping away from loud environments periodically.

hayfever

Summer Ear Health

Managing allergies and your hearing health

Summer often brings high pollen counts

High pollen counts in summer can cause significant discomfort for those who suffer from hay fever and allergies. Heightened allergens can cause ear congestion and affect your hearing. Here are our top tips for managing allergies and your hearing health this summer:

Stay indoors: Limit outdoor activities during peak pollen times and keep an eye on weather reports which will warn of high pollen levels.
Use medication: Remember to regularly take your over-the-counter antihistamines or other allergy medications, as prescribed, to reduce symptoms. If you know you suffer from hay fever, try taking them before symptoms present themselves as antihistamine's long-term effectiveness builds up over time.
Keep ears clean: Maintain ear hygiene to prevent buildup of pollen and other allergens that are more prevalent in the summer months.

Conclusion

Navigating the summer season with hearing loss and hearing aids can present unique challenges, but with the right strategies, you can maintain your ear health and device performance.

By taking precautions against humidity, and moisture, and managing allergies effectively, you can enjoy all the activities and adventures summer has to offer.

Remember to prioritise regular maintenance of your hearing aids and ear hygiene, and consider waterproof or sweat-resistant options if you're frequently active in water or outdoor sports. By following these tips you can ensure your hearing health remains in top shape throughout the summer.

Summer Hearing Health

Have you noticed a change in your hearing?

Don't miss out on any of the fun this summer.

Whether you are looking for hearing healthcare in clinic or in the comfort of your own home, we have an audiologist near you.

Call us free for support and advice on 0808 253 7303

Common FAQs about hearing aids and hearing loss

Is this the best model for me?

If you are looking at this page then it is likely that an audiologist has suggested that you purchase this particular hearing aid, so is this the best model for you?

In general, any audiologist will always be recommending to you the model that best suits your needs. Here is a useful check list to make sure that is the case.

Audiologist level of knowledge. The audiologist you have seen will hopefully have a wide knowledge of all available hearing aids, however some will only be familiar with a small number of brands and therefore may not really be in a position to know which model is the best for you. It is OK to challenge their recommendation and ask them to justify why this particular brand is the one for you.
Do research. Read about the hearing aid that was recommended. Does it seem like it will suit your lifestyle? Does it have more or less features than you need?
Be aware of sales targets. Many high street retailers have specific tie-ins to a particular manufacturer/brand. The hearing aid they have suggested may still be the correct one for you, but do your research so that you know why they might have recommended it.

If in doubt, feel free to give us a call. That's what we're here for.

Do I need one hearing aid or two?

What are the benefits of rechargeable hearing aids?

Are behind the ear aids better than in the ear aids?

What are channels, and how many do I need?

Where can I get the hearing aids covered?

How much does the hearing test cost?

Do home visits cost extra?

How come you're much cheaper than other places?

Hearing Healthcare and Summer: How to navigate the new season with hearing loss

Hearing Healthcare in Summer