Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I know if I need hearing aids?If you often ask people to repeat themselves, struggle to follow conversations in noisy places, turn the TV or radio up louder than others prefer, or feel like voices sound muffled, it may be time to check your hearing. A
quick online screening can give you an idea of your hearing levels, but the best way to know for sure is to get a professional hearing test or consult an audiologist.
How do hearing aids work?Hearing aids are small electronic devices designed to make sounds clearer and easier to understand. They capture sound using tiny microphones, then process it with advanced digital chips that analyze the incoming sound in real time. The device separates speech from background noise, reduces unwanted sounds like wind or traffic, and amplifies the frequencies you struggle to hear most.
The processed sound is delivered to your ear through a miniature speaker (also called a receiver), which ensures you hear speech and environmental sounds at a comfortable, natural volume. Many modern hearing aids automatically adjust to different listening environments — like restaurants, theaters, or outdoor spaces — and include features such as directional microphones for focusing on voices, feedback cancellation to prevent whistling, and
Bluetooth streaming for phone calls, music, and TV audio.
Can I buy hearing aids online or OTC?Yes. Many hearing aids are now available online or over the counter (OTC) without a prescription. OTC devices are designed for adults with
mild to moderate hearing loss and often include self-fit tools or online hearing tests to help you get started at home. Buying online can be convenient and more affordable, but it’s important to choose reputable brands that offer
trial periods, warranties, and professional support if you need help with fitting or adjustments. For severe or complex hearing loss, it’s best to see an audiologist for prescription-grade devices and custom programming.
Which features should I prioritize (noise reduction, directional mics, rechargeable vs disposable batteries)?Focus on features that match your lifestyle and hearing needs. Noise reduction helps cut down background sounds so voices are easier to hear in busy places like restaurants. Directional microphones focus on speech coming from in front of you while filtering out sounds from other directions — especially useful for conversations in noisy settings.
For power,
rechargeable batteries are convenient if you want to avoid frequent battery changes — just dock them overnight for a full day’s use. Disposable batteries can be a better choice if you don’t want to rely on charging stations or travel often without easy access to power. If you’re frequently in noisy environments, prioritize noise reduction and directional mics first, then choose the battery type based on your daily routine.
Will the hearing aids come programmed correctly for my hearing loss?Most reputable brands will either program your hearing aids using your audiogram before shipping them or guide you through a self-fit process using their app. If you upload your hearing test results during purchase, the devices can be
custom-tuned to match your specific hearing profile. Many models also allow remote fine-tuning by licensed audiologists after you’ve tried them at home, ensuring the settings are optimized for your comfort and everyday environments.
Can I connect them to my phone, TV, or Bluetooth devices?Yes. Most modern hearing aids come with built-in Bluetooth or wireless streaming technology that lets you
pair them with smartphones, tablets, TVs, and other compatible devices. This means you can
stream phone calls, music, podcasts, and even TV audio directly into your hearing aids for clearer sound. Some models also support hands-free calling on iPhone or Android, while others may require a small accessory to connect to certain TVs or older devices.
Can I upload my audiogram or take a test online for customization?Yes. Many online hearing aid providers let you upload your recent audiogram during checkout so your devices can be pre-programmed to match your hearing profile. If you don’t have an audiogram, several brands offer a
quick online hearing test that estimates your hearing levels and adjusts the settings accordingly. For the most accurate results, an audiogram from a licensed audiologist is recommended, but online tests are a convenient starting point — especially for mild to moderate hearing loss.
Are these actual medical hearing aids or just amplifiers?Reputable online and OTC brands sell FDA-regulated medical hearing aids, which are designed to treat hearing loss by amplifying specific frequencies based on your needs. In contrast, personal sound amplification products (PSAPs) simply make all sounds louder and are not intended for people with diagnosed hearing loss. When buying online, look for devices that are clearly labeled as hearing aids and come with features like noise reduction, feedback control, and professional support — these are signs you’re getting true
medical-grade hearing aids, not basic amplifiers.
What kind of follow-up support or tuning is included?Most reputable online hearing aid brands
include ongoing support after your purchase. This often means access to licensed audiologists or hearing specialists who can adjust your settings remotely through the brand’s app or guide you over phone, chat, or video calls. Many providers also offer unlimited fine-tuning sessions during your trial period, plus continued support for troubleshooting, cleaning tips, and performance checks — ensuring your hearing aids stay comfortable and work their best over time.
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