Hearing aids available over-the-counter offer a modern and more economical solution for those needing assistance with hearing loss. No professional visit is needed for their fitting.
Sounds great, doesn’t it? Unfortunately, while hearing aids available Over The Counter may be suitable for some, especially those suffering severe hearing loss, they aren’t suitable for all.
This article will explain how OTC hearing aids function and compare them with prescription-only models, outlining both pros and cons of using Over The Counter, so you can decide if they’re suitable for you.
Pros of OTC Hearing Aids
Here are some of the advantages of over-the-counter hearing aids:
1. Easily Accessible Hearing Aids
OTC hearing aids may be more cost-effective compared to those purchased from an audiologist or hearing specialist, as they can be purchased directly at pharmacies without first going through an extensive hearing assessment process.
2. Convenience
Due to being sold both online and at retail stores, OTC hearing aids offer an accessible solution for those unable to meet with an auditory specialist for an appointment.
These hearing aids require minimal paperwork making them an affordable and straightforward option for most situations.
3. Cost
Over-the-counter hearing aids tend to be less expensive than custom-designed ones due to their simplified appearance and limited features, making them more suitable for those on tight budgets.
4. Discreteness
Over-the-counter hearing aids tend to be smaller and more discreet than their prescription counterparts, making it easier for them to blend into their surroundings more seamlessly.
Furthermore, some can even be worn either inside or outside the ear, making them even easier for discreet wearers to blend into everyday environments.
5. Usability
After purchase, OTC hearing aids are modified by the purchaser using apps on smartphones or software. If OTC aids still have problems, the customer can contact the support team for hearing aids for assistance.
Cons of OTC Hearing Aids
Here’s some of the disadvantages of over-the-counter hearing aids:
1. There Isn’t A Wide Selection
The majority of OTC hearing aids can only provide moderate to mild hearing loss. There is also no guarantee that your local store will have the type of hearing that you need.
This could lead sufferers of hearing loss to choose an aid for hearing that isn’t exactly what they need, which could cause damage to their hearing.
2. You Miss Out On Audiology Services
Audiologists conduct comprehensive hearing tests, also known as audiograms, to determine your hearing loss. Professional testing sets the baseline for your hearing so that your audiologist is able to spot variations easily in the future.
3. Only for Mild or Moderate Hearing Loss
If you suffer from hearing loss, then over-the-counter hearing aids won’t be suitable for you. They’re only available to those who have moderate to light hearing loss.
People with severe hearing loss should consult a physician or an audiologist to get custom-fitted hearing aids or other therapies.
4. Age restrictions
According to FDA labels, OTC hearing aids are intended for adults 18 or over and should not be purchased or worn by those younger than 18.
Hearing loss among children under 18 often goes undetected, undiagnosed, and untreated as they will typically not receive proper diagnosis and treatment.
Who is a good candidate for Over-The-Counter hearing aids?
If you suspect you may have moderate to mild hearing problems, then it’s an excellent idea to visit an expert in hearing health first. They can make sure that your hearing loss isn’t caused by serious health issues.
This is essential if you experience the following signs:
- Ailment or abnormalities in the ear
- Blood, fluid, or pus from either or both ears
- Sudden hearing loss
- Hearing loss that occurs and disappears
- The eardrums of either or both ears
- Chronic discomfort in the ear or both
- Dizziness
- The feeling of fullness or obstruction in the ears
- Rapid deterioration of hearing loss
How accurate are Over-The-Counter hearing aids?
Over-the-counter hearing aids typically come pre-set with features to assist in combating hearing loss but may not provide accurate enough help for most users.
Hearing aids fitted by trained professionals are tailored to specific goals determined by scientific research to match how each person hears at specific frequencies. In other words, their volume levels will match how each individual hears them.
Fitting, as performed by an audiologist, and subsequent fine-tuning at follow-up appointments are critical in providing patients with hearing aids customized to meet their unique requirements.
How do Over-The-Counter hearing aids differ from prescription hearing aids?
OTC hearing aids work similarly to their prescription counterparts in that they assist hearing by amplifying sound, amplifying voices or other sounds, or both. FDA regulates such electronic and medical products accordingly.
But there are important variations:
- Prescription. It is the primary distinction. It is possible to purchase OTC hearing aids without having a medical examination and prescription, as opposed to prescription-only models.
- OTC hearing aids are designed for people who have mild to moderate hearing loss. Hearing aids prescribed by a doctor are designed for those with any degree of hearing loss, which includes extreme.
- Customization: When you use OTC hearing aids, it is necessary to configure and fit the device by yourself. A hearing medical professional can fit and program the appropriate prescription version for your requirements.
Bottom line
Well, there is a guide about the pros and cons of using Over -The- Counter hearing aids.
Over The Counter hearing aids is an exciting market shift to look forward to, providing consumers with more options that could increase the rates of hearing aid sales for people suffering from hearing loss.
Over-The-Counter hearing aids are directly accessible to users, meaning anyone can purchase hearing aids in stores or online without approval from a specialist audiologist.
FAQ
Are Over The Counter hearing aids any good?
Yes, OTC hearing aids are good. It can be bought without needing a hearing test or prescription and is just as effective at relieving mild or moderate hearing loss.
Hearing aids of all varieties use similar technology that amplifies sound in different listening situations, making OTC or prescription hearing aids suitable for those suffering from moderate hearing loss.
Can Anyone Use OTC Hearing Aids?
No, over-the-counter hearing aids are not designed for all. As per the FDA, they are made for people who are over 18 with a perceived moderate to mild hearing loss.
