Hearing Loss and Hearing Aids in a Medical Practice
Hearing loss is a very common health problem that affects children and adults of all ages. Many people experience a gradual loss of hearing while some report a more sudden change. There can be other symptoms including tinnitus (constant ringing in the ears), pressure or fullness in the ears, and dizziness, all of which should be medically evaluated by an ENT physician. When hearing loss occurs, the most common complaints are: “ I can hear, but I can’t understand clearly” and “ I have difficulty hearing when there is background noise”.
Hearing Testing
A thorough hearing evaluation begins with a complete history, visual inspection of the ear canal, and tests that measure a patient’s ability to hear soft tones and words. We then test your speech understanding ability in quiet and in background noise that provides valuable information about everyday communication problems. We also have our patients provide a self-assessment rating of their hearing ability that further helps us to fully understand each patient’s needs.
Hearing Aids
If the above tests indicate that hearing aids will help you, we provide state of the art technology choices, including conservative and affordable options, from a wide range of hearing aid manufactures. We are unique in that we provide prescription fitted hearing aids using precise measurements of sound in your ear canal. Thorough training and all checkups are included. We also teach hearing loss coping and compensation strategies for patients and their spouses. All hearing aids are fit on a 60 day trial basis that insures successful outcomes.
Hearing Aid Services
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We provide hearing instruments in a wide variety of styles, with many different features and levels of technology.
Products
We are proud to offer hearing instruments from top manufacturers including:
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Behind the Ear (BTE) Styles
Micro and Mini BTEs are usually done as an open-style fitting with a thin tube and a plastic tip that fits in the ear.
Standard BTE
These hearing aids are the most natural feeling and are appropriate for those with mild to moderately severe high frequency hearing losses. These hearing aids fit behind the ear and are attached to a custom earmold, which goes in the ear. This style is appropriate for those with mild to profound hearing losses.
In the Ear (Custom) Styles
Completely in the Canal (CIC)
This style of hearing aid fits entirely within the ear canal and is the least visible custom style. CIC hearing aids are best for those with mild to moderate hearing losses.
In the Canal (ITC)
This style is slightly larger than the CIC, and can accommodate more features because of its size. ITC hearing aids are designed for those with mild to moderate hearing losses.
In the Ear (ITE)
These hearing aids fit in the ear and can accommodate many helpful features. They are designed for those with mild to severe hearing losses.
Types of Technology
Digital
Digital hearing instruments are programmed with a computer to provide amplification in the frequencies where you need it, allowing for an individualized response from the hearing aid. There are three general categories of digital
technology:
- Advanced – offers outstanding performance in noise by using directional microphones and noise suppression/speech enhancement features. Best for those who spend a lot of time in background noise, are in a wide variety of listening situations or who want the best technology available
- Mid-Level – offers good performance in mild background noise with the use of directional microphones and noise suppression features. Better for those who spend little time in background noise.
- Basic – amplifies sounds that are difficult to hear. Provides improved listening in background noise with the use of a directional microphone. Good for people who are mostly in quiet situations.
Locations:
Santa Rosa Head & Neck Surgery
- David Quenelle, MD Otolaryngologist
- Stefan Zechowy, MD Otolaryngologist
- Mark Homicz, MD Otolaryngologist
- Stephanie Su Huang, MD Otolaryngologist
- Devin Lonergan, MD Otolaryngologist
- John Jarvis, PhD Audiologist
- Jennifer DeCastro,AuD Audiologist
- Kristin Kline, AuD Audiologist
- Denise Martin, Clinical Aestheician
- Linda Biggers, Allergy Clinic Manager & Clinician
