How Hearing Aids and Glasses Differ

We often find ourselves counseling patients regarding the difference between vision loss and hearing loss.  Many patients feel as though amplification is an easy fix, just as their prescription eyewear.

Types of Hearing Loss

Although both glasses and hearing aids are used to improve sensory problems, they differ in several ways. With most vision loss, corrective lenses can fully reset eyesight to 20/20 by bending light waves as they enter the eye. However, hearing aids cannot always restore all lost hearing. Whether or not hearing aids can fully restore all auditory processing depends on the type of hearing loss.

For instance, conductive hearing loss that is caused when something disrupts the transmission of sound from the outer or middle ear to the inner ear can sometimes be fully corrected through medical intervention. Examples of conductive hearing loss causes are fluid in the middle ear or perforation of the eardrum. These issues affect only the middle ear, causing no damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve, meaning that amplification may correct this issue by passing sound more easily through the middle ear.

However, sensorineural hearing loss cannot as easily be corrected, and this is the most common type of hearing loss we diagnose. This type of hearing loss is caused by nerve damage from noise exposure and/or other comorbidities, and it accounts for 90% of the hearing losses in the United States, according to Healthy Hearing. These damaged cells are non-regenerative and cannot be repaired medically. Hearing aids can amplify the sound to be more audible, but they cannot fully restore all clarity.

Hearing Aid Stigmas

Another difference between hearing aids and glasses is how they are perceived. While many people see glasses as stylish, they often consider hearing aids embarrassing and ugly. However, bulky large hearing aids are a thing of the past. Newer devices are smaller and virtually unnoticeable. They are even fitted with amazing technology that makes navigating the digital environment easier and more productive. Most hearing aids come equipped with Bluetooth technology, and higher-end models track your physical health, stream music, and stream phone calls for you. Hearing aids may not be as stylish as glasses (yet!), but they can do a lot more for you!

The Hearing Loss Journey

Some patients may experience some distortion or a short period of adjustment when wearing glasses for the first time, but those symptoms typically right themselves by the end of the day. Proper treatment for hearing loss, however, is a longer and more in-depth process when done by following best practices as we do.

When fitted with hearing aids, you are reintroduced to sounds that you have slowly lost over time. Did you know your brain needs time to readjust to sounds that you haven’t heard in several years? The ticking of an old grandfather clock or the tapping of hard-soled shoes may surprise you. Your brain is slowly readjusting, and this process can be beautiful and enjoyable.

Correct Expectations

Although corrective lenses and hearing aids are different, they are equally important. You would not try to read your favorite novel without wearing your prescription eyewear, why would you attempt to listen and carry on a conversation without your hearing aids? Amplification frees you from constantly misunderstanding people, no matter the type of hearing loss.

When you go in for a Functional Hearing Assessment, remember to have realistic expectations. Do worry though, we make sure to set appropriate goals to meet your needs.  Hearing aids might not restore all missing sounds, but they will make a difference in your life if you are living with untreated hearing loss! Hearing loss can cause insecurity and fear of embarrassment, making social interactions difficult. It can even lead to cognitive decline. If you are experiencing hearing loss, reach out to Hearing Solutions of North Carolina. We are more than happy to schedule an appointment with you and begin you on your miraculous journey toward better hearing!