Losing your hearing is nothing to be ashamed of, and you’re not alone. The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders estimates that 15 percent of adult Americans struggle with hearing loss. Don’t allow the problem to progress or go unaddressed—a hearing aid device can help amplify your ability to hear everyday conversations, audio, and the general sounds around you. Dr. Arthur Katz and his team in Olympia Fields, IL, Crown Point and Munster, IN, can help you with any lingering questions you have about hearing aids.

How Do You Know You Need a Hearing Aid?

Patients usually don’t want to admit that their hearing has been on the decline, but the earlier a problem is caught, the higher the likelihood that the hearing loss can be restored. If the hearing loss is permanent and is disrupting your ability to work, drive, maintain a conversation without yelling, or hear television, you may need a hearing aid. A test called an audiogram will help your Olympia Fields, IL, Crown Point and Munster, IN, hearing doctor determine if you need one of these devices.

What Are the Different Types of Hearing Aids?

Most hearing aids are placed inside or around the ear to help clarify sounds, making them more audible. These are some of the most popular types of hearing aids available to patients who are diagnosed with hearing loss:

- CIC (Completely in the Canal), which are hidden inside of the ear.
- ITE (In the Ear), which are similar to CIC aids, except larger and with more features.
- BTE (Behind the Ear), which are secured in place behind the outer ear and allow for better volume control.

Benefits of a Hearing Aid

Hearing clearly is a benefit for a number of practical reasons. It allows you to be more alert and aware of your surroundings. A hearing aid can help increase your safety (and that of others) when you’re out and about in the world, walking, exercising, and driving. Being that most modern hearing aids are designed to be discrete in appearance, you don’t have to worry too much about other noticing your device. Your Olympia Fields, IL, Crown Point or Munster, IN, audiologist will help you choose one that’s ideal for you.

Get Tested and Fitted for a Hearing Aid

Once you’ve accepted that you may be experiencing some level of hearing loss, see Dr. Arthur Katz at his office in Olympia Fields, IL, Crown Point or Munster, IN, for a hearing evaluation. Call (708) 747-6900 for the Olympia Fields, IL, office, (219) 769-8441 for the Crown Point, IN, office, or (219) 934-9396 for the Munster, IN, office today to set a date and time for your appointment.