Hearing is one of the fundamental senses of most living beings, and for this reason, hearing loss will have a negative impact on your physical, emotional and social well-being, if not tackled properly. All the sounds which surround us affect, to a certain extent, our way of living, and they become an integral part of our lives. Whether it's music, movies or voices of family and friends, not being able to hear properly, will affect the quality of your life. Address this condition now and invest in high quality hearing aids to get your life back on track.

What can cause hearing loss?

Although hearing loss is associated with old age, people of all ages can be affected, from babies to teenagers and adults. Hearing loss can be genetic, or caused by wax, an injury or trauma, ear infections, tinnitus, exposure to noise, drug abuse, cigarettes, and much more.

Why invest in hearing aids?

Hearing aids are beneficial for both your physical and psychological health. So how can hearing aids help you?

• You can start interacting effortlessly once again and connecting with your friends and family
• A better sense of control over your life
• Life can be enjoyed to the full
• Due to the different sizes and styles, you won't feel self-conscious when wearing them
• No need to ask people to repeat utterances

How do hearing aids work?

Hearing aids are made up of a microphone, amplifier, speaker and power supply. The microphone absorbs surrounding sounds, converts the sound waves to electrical signals, which are, in turn, sent to the amplifier, which makes sounds louder, and sends them to your ear through the speaker. Hearing aids won't restore your hearing back; they will only enhance your hearing by amplifying the sounds around you.

When should you get a hearing aid?

There are several warning signs when it comes to hearing loss. You may start finding it difficult to follow a conversation, especially in noisy environments, need to have things repeated louder, and find yourself increasing the TV's volume. When you do experience these, don't delay in carrying out a hearing test.

Types of Hearing Aids

Hearing aids have developed along the years and in this time and age, the options you can choose from are varied. You can find different sized brands and models with different shapes, styles, colours and features to accommodate every individual suffering from a hearing impairment.

The most common types of hearing aids include:

• IIC hearing aids (invisible-in-the-ear)
• ITE hearing aids (In-the-ear)
• CIC hearing aids (completely-in-canal)
• RIC hearing aids (receiver-in-canal)
• Mini BTE hearing aids (mini behind-the-ear)
• BTE hearing aids (behind-the-ear)

For every type, you'll be able to find basic models to high-end devices, traditional and modern designs, analog and digital devices, colours suitable for kids and adults alike, and devices with various features.

Today's hearing aids are discreet, easy to fit, more effective and more comfortable. The latest wi-fi connected models can be connected to your smartphone, TV, radio, headphones, and other electronic devices. Technological advances have enabled hearing aids to eliminate background noises and stream sound from TV and radio via bluetooth directly to your devices.

The model you choose depends on your preferences, needs, your budget, the type of impairment you have, and the severity of your hearing loss. The hearing specialist will guide you in choosing the best option, and you can also customise hearing aids according to your ear shape and skin tone for the utmost invisibility.

Services offered by Hearing Aid Suppliers

-Hearing test

Before buying hearing aids, you would need to book an appointment with one of the audiologists or ENT specialists in Malta and get your ears tested. The doctor will make you listen to an array of different volumes and pitches to determine the severity of your hearing impairment, according to your sensitivity to different frequencies. Do not rely on online hearing tests, but visit a certified professional who will carry out a comprehensive diagnosis. A hearing test may be offered for free by certain clinics in Malta.

-Hearing Consultation

Apart from carrying out a hearing test, the audiologist will determine your hearing needs and consider your lifestyle, aesthetic preferences and budget before prescribing hearing aids. Alternative treatments may be more effective than hearing aids in certain cases. In the case of profound hearing loss, for instance, a cochlear implant may be recommended. Home visits may also be provided.

-Hearing Aid Adjustment

Before buying hearing aids, you'll be guided on how to insert them and remove them, how to control volume, and how to care for them properly. The audiologist will adjust them with the most appropriate settings for you.

-Hearing aid repair

In case of damage, many hearing aid suppliers offer repair services and may offer replacements while the hearing aids are being repaired.

-Hearing Aid Follow-ups

Follow-up meetings will be arranged to ensure hearing aids are adjusted properly according to the individual's hearing impairment.

-Hearing trials

Hearing trials may be offered to customers to help them determine what type of device would be most suitable for them.

How much do hearing aids cost?

The cost of hearing aids varies greatly. Price will depend on the features available, style, and device type. You may be entitled to a free hearing aid, so check with your doctor accordingly.

How to take care of your hearing aids

If you want your hearing aids to last a long time, check out the below tips:

• Clean in-the-ear hearing aids with a soft, dry cloth on a daily basis and don't use any fluids. On the other hand, behind-the-ear hearing aids can be washed in warm soapy water.
• Make sure you have clean hands when handling them.
• Check the wax filter regularly, as earwax and dust can clog up the sound outlet and lead to sound distortion.
• Keep away from heat and moisture.
• Don't use hairspray while wearing them.
• Turn off when not in use.
• Replace batteries as soon as they die.

Renew your life and re-discover the sounds which make life so beautiful. Stop denying you're suffering from hearing loss and take action now to connect to the world once again.