Hearing Aid FAQ

The New River Valley’s Comprehensive Audiology Service Provider

Hearing Loss Treatment – FAQs

Hearing loss often develops gradually. Common signs include difficulty understanding speech, especially in background noise, needing higher TV volume, frequently asking others to repeat themselves, or feeling fatigued after conversations. A hearing test is the best way to know for sure.

Hearing loss can be caused by aging, noise exposure, ear infections, certain medications, head injuries, earwax buildup, or genetic factors. Identifying the cause helps determine the most effective treatment options.

Some types of hearing loss are temporary, such as those caused by earwax or fluid. Others, like sensorineural hearing loss, are typically permanent but can often be managed effectively with hearing aids or other hearing technology.

Untreated hearing loss can lead to communication challenges, listening fatigue, social withdrawal, and reduced quality of life. Early treatment often improves clarity, confidence, and overall well-being.

No referral is typically required. You can schedule a hearing evaluation directly with New River Valley Hearing & Balance at either the Radford or Floyd location.

Hearing Aids – FAQs

Hearing aids improve speech clarity, reduce background noise, and make conversations easier to follow. Modern devices automatically adjust to different environments and can connect to smartphones, TVs, and other devices.
Options include Behind-the-Ear (BTE), In-the-Ear (ITE), In-the-Canal (ITC), Completely-in-Canal (CIC), Invisible-in-Canal (IIC), Receiver-in-Canal (RIC/RITE), extended-wear, and implantable devices. Each style offers different benefits based on comfort, hearing needs, and lifestyle.

OTC hearing aids are designed for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss and are self-fit. Prescription hearing aids are customized based on your hearing test and offer advanced features like superior noise reduction, directional microphones, and personalized programming.

Your hearing provider will consider your hearing test results, daily activities, listening environments, comfort preferences, and budget to recommend options that best support your needs.
Yes. We offer flexible payment options, accept insurance when applicable, and provide financing through CareCredit® and Allegro Credit, which offers flexible payment plans with no application fees, prepayment fees, or hidden fees.

Hearing Tests & Screenings – FAQs

A hearing test includes a discussion of your hearing concerns, followed by gentle listening tests in a quiet environment. You’ll respond to tones and speech, and your audiologist will review the results with you right away.
Most hearing evaluations take less than an hour and are comfortable and stress-free.

Testing may include audiometry, speech testing, tympanometry, ABR, OAE, balance testing, and cognitive screening, depending on your symptoms and needs.

An audiogram is a chart that shows how softly you can hear different pitches and whether hearing differs between ears. It helps determine if hearing loss is present and what type it may be.
Adults should have their hearing checked regularly, especially if they notice changes, have noise exposure, or wear hearing aids. Your provider will recommend a testing schedule based on your results.

Custom Hearing Aid Fittings – FAQs

Proper fitting ensures your hearing aids are comfortable, provide clear sound, minimize background noise, and prevent issues like feedback or whistling.
Your fitting includes reviewing test results, selecting ear tips or earmolds, programming your devices, real-world listening checks, and education on care and use.
Yes. Follow-up visits allow your provider to fine-tune volume, noise reduction, and comfort settings as you adapt to your devices.
Adjustment varies by person. Many patients notice improvements quickly, while others benefit from gradual changes and follow-up adjustments over several weeks.

Absolutely. Ongoing care ensures your hearing aids continue to perform well as your hearing needs or lifestyle change.

Earwax Removal – FAQs

Symptoms may include muffled hearing, ear fullness, ringing in the ears, discomfort, dizziness, or hearing aids that sound weak or distorted.

Yes, when performed by a professional. We use safe techniques like microsuction, irrigation, manual removal, and the Earigator system to remove wax comfortably and effectively.
Cotton swabs, ear candles, and sharp objects can push wax deeper, injure the ear canal, or damage the eardrum. Professional care is the safest option.
The Earigator is an advanced ear irrigation system that uses body-temperature water to gently and efficiently remove impacted earwax. It’s quick, pain-free, and highly effective.
Hearing aid users may need more frequent ear checks, as wax can block devices and affect performance. Regular cleanings help extend hearing aid life and improve sound quality.