Can You Get Hearing Aids Without a Doctor?

When it comes to purchasing a hearing aid, you’re probably wondering if it’s as simple as going to your nearest big box store to pick one up. However, the process is a bit more complex than purchasing a new television or phone. Can you get hearing aids without a doctor?

The buying process for hearing aids is similar to getting glasses — it’s best to enlist the help of a professional. In this case, working with an audiologist is the most effective way to treat your hearing loss with hearing aids.

Follow along as El Dorado Hearing uncovers how an audiologist can assist you in testing your hearing, choosing your hearing aid, and determining the ideal settings for maximum results.

Why an Audiologist Should be the First Step in your Hearing Loss Journey

At the first sign of trouble with your hearing, you’re likely scouring the Internet trying to find ways to restore your hearing and minimize future damage. However, the first thing you should do is call a top-rated audiologist in your area to help you diagnose the root of the problem. The Food and Drug Administration even recommends seeing a hearing doctor before purchasing hearing aids to ensure that your diagnosis is accurate and your hearing aids fit your needs.

At your appointment, your audiologist will conduct a hearing test to determine the cause and extent of your hearing loss.

Depending on the severity of your hearing loss, your doctor may run a few tests, including:

• Middle ear testing
• Speech testing
• Pure-tone testing
• Auditory brainstem response testing

Through these tests, they’re able to provide a recommended treatment plan to restore your hearing, which may include hearing aids.

Programming your Hearing Aid Settings

Depending on your specific needs, your doctor will present you with a few types of hearing aids that can help you with your hearing loss. There are a few hearing aids to choose from, from large over-the-ear to small in-the-ear devices. Once you receive your hearing aids, you may continue meeting with your audiologist so they can test your hearing aid and make sure it’s working properly.

Along with helping you narrow down which type of hearing aid is best in your particular situation, your audiologist will also be able to help you program the ideal settings. The settings you need will be determined from your hearing test results, ensuring you receive the proper amount of amplification. If you struggle with some of the frequencies in various environments, your audiologist will establish the proper settings for you with optimal amplification.

Working with an audiologist to purchase and set your hearing aids ensures that you receive a proper diagnosis and treatment plan to improve your hearing loss.

Schedule a Hearing Test with El Dorado Hearing of Tucson

To assist in managing your hearing loss, we provide complete hearing evaluations at El Dorado Hearing. Our hearing specialists are highly experienced and provide you with an in-depth hearing assessment to evaluate whether you have hearing loss and the extent to which the loss affects you.

For personalized hearing testing in Tucson, AZ, make El Dorado Hearing of Tucson first on your list. We strive to make our hearing offices a comfortable place where everyone feels welcome.

If you are ready to regain control of your hearing, visit us at one of our hearing clinics. Contact us today to set up an appointment with one of our caring and expert hearing specialists!