The Essential Hearing Aid FAQ: Buy Smart, Fit Perfectly 2026

In Signia hearing aids, the hearing aid user can change the hearing aid settings, for example, changing noise settings or other specialized settings?

Specialized adjustments to prevent possible damage to the ear (caused by user adjustment errors) can only be made in specialized hearing aid centers with special tools, but in modern Signia hearing aids (and most leading brands such as Starkey, Phonak, Oticon, etc.), the user has a significant degree of direct and personalized control over their hearing aid, but this control is usually within a defined and safe framework to prevent unwanted damage to hearing. Settings such as changing the volume, adjusting the noise and speech balance, equalizer mode in the headphones, and similar items can be adjusted through dedicated mobile applications for each hearing aid.

On what basis is hearing aid adjustment performed? Must a hearing test be performed or can hearing aids be adjusted without an audiometric test?

Yes, a complete hearing test (audiometry) must be performed. Adjusting hearing aids without audiometry is unprincipled, unscientific, and can be harmful.

Do I have to go in person for a hearing test or an audiometry test? Is it possible to do the test online or visit an audiologist at home?

The available online tests are only initial screening and never replace the diagnosis of an audiologist. For an accurate and reliable audiometric test, you must either visit an audiology clinic in person (because specialized equipment such as an isolated acoustic chamber and a calibrated audiometer) is only available in the clinic. Of course, the Turan Hearing Specialist Hearing Clinic has provided the possibility of home hearing visits and home hearing aid prescriptions with advanced portable equipment, which greatly eliminates the need for patients to visit a hearing clinic.

I find it difficult to use my hearing aid and I can’t keep it on my ear. What should I do?

This is a very common problem and is nothing to worry about. Many users face this challenge in the first few days or weeks. It is important to be patient and follow the steps below in order

Summary of Immediate Actions

Make an appointment with your audiologist to check the fit and shape
Start a gradual acclimatization program today with a short schedule
Request accessories such as an anti-drop strap or lubricant

Never give up on your hearing aids. Your problem is completely solvable. Honest and ongoing communication with your audiologist is the key to success. Explain all your feelings and physical problems to him or her in detail.

What is the use of wireless in hearing aids and which hearing aids have this capability?

In most (Bluetooth Low Energy – BLE) wireless technology or in more specialized terms

There are reputable and branded hearing aids on the market. The use of this technology is used in the following cases:

Binaural connection (Binaural Synchronization)
Direct connection to mobile phone (Direct Bluetooth Streaming)
Connection to accessories and audio sources
Control via mobile application (App Control)
Remote services (Telecare/Remote Fitting)

Is there a solution to the problem of hearing loss other than hearing aids?

Yes, depending on the type, severity, and exact cause of your hearing loss, there are treatment options other than conventional hearing aids

(In some cases, it may be possible and appropriate) Medical or surgical treatment
(Cochlear Implant)
(Implantable Middle Ear Devices)
(Bone Conduction Devices)
(Esteem, etc.) Implantable hearing aids
CROS/BiCROS hearing aids
(ALD) Assistive listening devices

What causes extra sounds in some hearing aids and when do hearing aids give feedback?

These two issues (extraneous sounds and feedback) are the most common complaints from hearing aid users and have different causes. Understanding these causes will help you troubleshoot the problem more easily.

Feedback occurs when sound from your hearing aid re-enters the microphone and creates an amplification loop.

General solution and prevention: Daily cleaning, professional adjustment (never turn the volume up too high), re-evaluating the mold (if your weight has changed or it has been a long time since the mold was made, you may need a new mold)

Finally: Modern digital hearing aids have very powerful algorithms for feedback suppression and noise reduction. In many cases, these problems can be completely resolved with a professional re-adjustment. Therefore, maintain regular contact with your audiologist.

If I have an ear infection or pain, should I go to a hearing clinic or an ear, throat, and nose doctor?

An ear infection or earache is a medical condition that requires examination, diagnosis, and medical treatment (such as antibiotics) by an ear, nose, and throat specialist.

An audiology clinic is a center for diagnosing and prescribing hearing aids. After the infection has been fully treated by a doctor, if you need to check its effect on your hearing, get a hearing aid, or have your hearing aid adjusted, visit a hearing clinic.

Can I swim or shower with waterproof hearing aids?

No. Not at all.

No hearing aid (even waterproof or water-resistant models) is designed for use while swimming, showering, or bathing. The water resistance standard only protects hearing aids against accidental splashes, sweat, or rain, not immersion in water.

Chlorinated pool water, seawater, and bathroom detergents can cause serious and irreversible damage to the electronic circuits and components of hearing aids. Always remove your hearing aid and store it in a dry case before entering the water or showering.