Audiology and Hearing Aids

The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) recommends adults age 18 to 40 years old, who are not experiencing any noticeable hearing loss, should have their hearing tested every three to five years. Annual hearing tests are recommended for all adults beginning at age 60, even if they are not experiencing symptoms of hearing loss.

Studies show that adults with hearing loss wait an average of seven years before seeking treatment.

Similar to other chronic health conditions, like high blood pressure and diabetes, hearing loss is more effectively treated before it becomes severe. The sooner a diagnosis of hearing loss is made, the more options you have for successful treatment. When left untreated, hearing loss has been linked to a number of coexisting conditions, including diabetes, depression, dementia, and increased fall risk.

The first step in diagnosing hearing loss is scheduling a hearing evaluation with a licensed and certified audiologist who can provide guidance and hearing health care. At North Dallas Ear, Nose and Throat, Dr. Teresa Harris performs comprehensive audiological evaluations to determine hearing loss, its severity, and the part of the ear (outer, middle, inner) causing hearing loss. She takes the time to educate you on your type of hearing loss, the degree of impairment, and the effects of hearing loss on daily life activities.

When hearing aids are recommended to achieve better hearing, Dr. Teresa Harris relies on 40+ years of professional experience and expertise to provide hearing aid evaluations and fittings for patients age 18 and older with all levels of hearing loss. With a doctoral degree in audiology, she has the knowledge to program hearing aids to suit your specific needs. When hearing aids are calibrated properly, they improve specific hearing loss issues and allow you to hear more clearly.

While you may be tempted to purchase hearing aids at a local retail store, a diagnosis from an audiologist is your best chance for better hearing and hearing health.

What you should know about over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids:

• OTC hearing aids vary greatly in their quality - and they are not as high quality as prescription hearing aids.
• Good quality OTC hearing aids often cost the same as high quality prescription hearing aids.
• OTC hearing aids are only intended for adults, age 18 and older, who have perceived mild-to-moderate hearing loss.
• It is easy to over or underestimate actual hearing loss yourself. Hearing loss levels should be determined by a professional using a comprehensive audiological evaluation, including a hearing test.
• All hearing aids need to be programmed for your individual hearing function. Programming a hearing aid should be carried out by a professional audiologist who has specialized education and practical training in the science behind hearing loss and hearing devices.

An audiologist is a licensed and certified expert in hearing health care. At North Dallas Ear, Nose, and Throat, our goal is to help you create a plan and a path toward improved hearing. Dr. Teresa Harris can help you find a device for your individual hearing needs and check your hearing over time to see if it remains stable or worsens.

If you have purchased an over-the-counter hearing aid and are not experiencing better hearing, please schedule an appointment with us. Dr. Harris can determine your level of hearing loss and recommend the hearing aid device that is best for you.

Levels of Hearing Aid Technology

High Definition Premium Digital 100% Digital Enhanced program options for the widest range of listening environments Superior performance in background noise

Advanced Digital Technology 100% Digital Multiple programs for varied listening situations Background noise comfort and reduction ability

Entry Level Basic Digital 100% Digital Reduced program options Basic noise reduction system

* These levels of technology will be described and discussed in detail with each patient to ensure an appropriate match with one's hearing difficulties and needs.

Latest Advances in Hearing Aid Technology Available Now

• Wireless Bluetooth connectivity: Cell phones, TVs, Ipods, Ipads, PCs, music players, etc.
• Speech Variable Processing
• Speech Priority Noise Reduction
• Impulse Noise Reduction
• Adaptive Feedback Canceller and much more!

Cosmetic Choices

The best hearing aid option is determined by the patient and audiologist, based on need and desired outcomes.

• Receiver In the Ear (RIE) / Receiver In the Canal (RIC)
• Completely in the Canal (CIC)
• In the Canal (ITC)
• In the Ear (ITE)
• Behind the Ear (BTE)

Do you suspect that you or a loved one has hearing loss? Try our easy and quick screening toolthat anyone can use to screen for hearing loss and determine if a more comprehensive hearing test is needed.

To schedule a hearing evaluation or hearing aid consultation, please call our office.

North Dallas Ear Nose and Throat, PA
972-480-8877