Top Questions about Hearing Aids

Hearing aid technology has been around for a while, but it continues to advance at an

incredible pace. Today, hearing aids are nothing like the ones your grandparents used.

Given the pace of technological change, there are many misconceptions and questions about hearing aids. Our team of audiologists in Lethbridge strives to keep up on all advancements, and we will take the time during your appointment to provide as much information as we can.

Here are the questions that we often hear about hearing aids, but the list certainly isn't exhaustive. You probably have a question that isn't on this list, so send us a message with your questions about hearing aids.

What's the history of hearing aids?

To be honest, this isn't a common question we hear about hearing aids. But it is a topic that helps to explain how hearing aids operate today – and the incredible pace of change that we've seen in the technology over the past few decades.

Early hearing aids

While many devices have been used to augment hearing throughout history, some of the earliest devices that have similarities to modern hearing aids were known as acoustic horns or ear trumpets. These devices – which date back to the 17^th century – had cones that were held on the ears and sent sound into the ear through small tubes.

Transformation into modern hearing aids

Hearing aids not only collect sound, but they also process the sounds to match the wearer's hearing challenges. Early electric hearing aids used a carbon powder to conduct electricity between a rear conductor and a diaphragm. They were often quite large as they required multiple microphones to amplify sound.

The rapid advancement of digital technology enabled hearing aids to shrink in size while improving both the collection and processing of sounds.

There have been hundreds of types and styles of hearing aids over the last century. Recent innovations – such as better noise management in different environments and more natural-sounding output – are largely invisible, but they improve the comfort and performance of the devices.

How do hearing aids help?

Hearing aids work by improving the clarity and strength of sound waves entering the ear. Although they cannot treat all forms of hearing loss, they are effective in treating hearing loss caused by damaged sensory cells. These damaged hearing cells require sound to be at a louder volume to convert it to electrical signals, so hearing aids collect and process the sound to offset the impacts of the damaged cells.

In some cases, the damage to the hearing cells is so significant that the brain has difficulty distinguishing between sounds, especially in a noisy environment.. This can make it challenging for them to hold conversations in loud rooms. Hearing aids can be programmed to deliver stronger and clearer sounds that are important for speech understanding while reducing background noises.

Hearing aids can also help wearers gain relief from tinnitus by subtly amplifying background sounds to help reduce the awareness of tinnitus. In more severe cases, hearing aids can be programmed to produce white noise in the ear to mask the sound of tinnitus.

What's the best hearing aid for me?

Again, this isn't a question that we hear aloud. But it is the core question that we cover when providing our recommendations.

At Audiology First, we are committed to creating a personalized treatment plan for you based on the results of your hearing test. Your hearing test will not only include a hearing baseline and other conventional tests, but we also use diagnostic equipment that you likely won't find anywhere else.

Our hearing assessments are catered to your specific hearing challenges, and you will receive a detailed consultation right after your tests. We will take our time discussing your results so that you can make informed decisions about your treatment.

There is a wide variety of technologies and styles of hearing aids, so we will recommend the best options after we have learned as much as we can about your hearing challenges and lifestyle.

What degree of hearing loss requires a hearing aid?

Hearing aids are usually effective in treating mild to moderate hearing loss. Severe hearing loss, often described as the inability to understand normal speech, can be treated with hearing aids but may require different styles or cochlear implants. For profound hearing loss (the inability to hear loud noises like jet engines), hearing aids are usually not an effective treatment.

But the answer depends on more than the degree of your hearing loss. The type of hearing loss and its impact on your daily life will inform us of the best options for you. Your audiologist will review the results of your hearing test and discuss if you can benefit from a hearing aid.

How expensive are hearing aids?

Like most modern technology, the price range of hearing aids depends on the level of technology inside the device. Various sizes and styles of hearing aids are available for most budgets, but more expensive devices usually feature more advanced sound processing.

The features that you would benefit from depend on the type and degree of your hearing challenges. Our recommendations are always based on matching you with technology that will make the biggest difference in your life while fitting your lifestyle and financial needs.

In Alberta, hearing aid funding may be available for you. We will discuss what programs you may be eligible for during your consultation.

What if I don't like my hearing aids?

It often takes time to get used to new hearing aids. While you adjust to new routines with your hearing aids, your brain adapts to the different sound signals it is receiving.

We offer a 28-day trial on hearing aids with no money down. The goal of this trial period is to let you experience the devices at home, work or anywhere else in your daily routine.

Our audiologists will work closely with you to help you acclimate to a new way of hearing. After you get new hearing aids, we will schedule follow-up appointments to troubleshoot any challenges and make any adjustments to improve comfort. Our ongoing attention aims to help you get the most out of your hearing aids – right after you receive them to years later.

It is important to let us know what challenges or annoyances you are facing with your hearing aids. Contact us to schedule an appointment to speak with an audiologist.

I have more questions about hearing aids!

Send us a message if you have any questions about hearing aids not covered here. We always take the time to listen to your comments and questions, so you can learn more about hearing technology and get the most out of your hearing aids.

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Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss: A Medical Emergency You Can't Ignore

October 3, 2025

When it comes to audiology, there’s only one true emergency: sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) . Unlike gradual hearing loss that develops over years, SSNHL appears abruptly and requires immediate medical attention. Audiology First specializes in rapid emergency hearing care, with diagnostic protocols and treatment pathways designed to act fast when every hour matters. Quick intervention can mean the difference between full recovery and permanent hearing damage. Let’s learn how to recognize warning signs and understand what a treatment plan would look like. Understanding Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss Definition and Criteria To an Audiologist, sudden sensorineural hearing loss is defined as a 30+ dB hearing loss (which in layman's terms would be a very noticeable change) across three different pitches of hearing within 72 hours. For it to be a true sudden sensorineural loss, it cannot be related to anything else, like wax blockage, fluid buildup or a blockage. It happens without warning and is often mistaken for a minor issue like earwax buildup or fluid in the ear, but the stakes are often much higher. Prevalence and Demographics SSNHL affects about 5 to 20 per 100,000 people annually , with thousands of cases reported across Canada. While it can strike at any age, adults in their 40s and 50s are more commonly affected. Unilateral vs. Bilateral Most cases are unilateral (one ear), but in rare circumstances, hearing loss can affect both ears. Bilateral cases are especially urgent and may point to underlying systemic or autoimmune conditions. Associated Symptoms Patients often experience additional warning signs such as tinnitus (ringing in the ears), dizziness, or a sensation of fullness in the affected ear. Audiology First’s Emergency Assessment Our clinic prioritizes same-day evaluations , including audiometric testing and immediate physician referral when needed. By identifying SSNHL quickly, we aim to maximize the window for effective treatment and recovery. Remember that hearing care centers like Audiology First cannot treat sudden loss, but play a role in identifying it. If you cannot see an audiologist or another trained hearing care professional right away, you should not delay seeking medical help from a physician. If same day testing is not available, you should continue to seek help as a matter of urgency. We recommend using one or more of the following resources: Call Alberta Healthlink on 311 Visit an Urgent Care center Visit your local Emergency Room or Call a local Ear Nose and Throat specialist’s office Recognizing the Warning Signs Immediate Symptoms The hallmark sign is sudden hearing loss in one ear , which may feel like muffled sounds or difficulty understanding speech. Secondary Indicators Other red flags include persistent tinnitus, balance issues, and ear pressure that can accompany the hearing loss. When to Seek Emergency Care Time is of the essence. Some research shows that treatment is most effective when started within the first 72 hours . While some people’s hearing may recover spontaneously with or without treatment, delaying medical attention can lead to permanent hearing impairment . In some cases, hearing does not recover, even with prompt treatment. If you are experiencing dizziness at the same time as a hearing loss, do not drive yourself to seek help, but consider getting someone to drive you to any immediate appointments. Self-Assessment Techniques At home, a simple test is to cover one ear at a time when listening to a familiar sound (such as your phone or TV). If one side sounds significantly quieter or distorted, it’s an urgent signal to seek help. If you are a hearing aid user, it is important to check that your hearing aid is not blocked or malfunctioning in some way, giving the appearance of a sudden change in hearing. Treatment Options and Protocols Audiologists and Hearing Care Professionals cannot prescribe medications, but these are some of the options offered to people with sudden loss when they visit a medical professional. Corticosteroid Therapy The primary treatment for SSNHL is corticosteroids, delivered either orally or through intratympanic injections. These reduce inflammation and improve the likelihood of hearing recovery. Prednisone is often prescribed. Treatment Timing Prompt treatment is crucial. Patients who start therapy within 14 days of onset have significantly better outcomes. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy For patients who don’t respond to steroids, hyperbaric oxygen therapy can serve as a salvage treatment, improving oxygen delivery to the inner ear. Supportive Care Managing related issues like tinnitus or dizziness may require additional therapies, including hearing aids or vestibular rehabilitation. Audiology First’s Treatment Approach We have a great relationship with the local ENT specialists, and coordinate all aspects of care with them to ensure each patient has access to the best possible recovery options. Recovery and Rehabilitation Recovery Timelines: Recovery can range from a few days to several months, depending on the severity and speed of treatment. Some patients regain full hearing, while others experience only partial improvement. Hearing Aid Considerations: For those with lasting deficits, modern hearing aids can provide amplification and restore communication confidence. Tinnitus Management: Persistent ringing in the ears is often a consequence of hearing loss that can be managed through sound therapy, well fitted hearing aids, counseling, and tinnitus retraining techniques. Follow-up Care: You should return to the clinic for a series of routine follow up tests over the weeks and months following a sudden hearing loss. This allows us to measure whether treatments have been successful, and to treat any residual hearing loss. Audiology First’s Rehabilitation Services For those who need it, Our team provides comprehensive recovery support, including custom hearing aid fittings, counseling, and personalized rehabilitation plans. Prevention and Risk Factors Known Risk Factors Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss has been linked to the following: Viral infections Autoimmune disorders Circulatory problems Certain medications Age-related vulnerabilities Protective Measures Protecting your hearing from loud noise, avoiding ototoxic medications when possible, and treating systemic health issues can lower risk. Early Detection Baseline hearing tests and regular audiology check-ups can help detect changes early and establish a benchmark for comparison. Lifestyle Factors It is difficult to note which factors may reduce the risk of sudden sensorineural hearing loss, but a healthy lifestyle—including balanced nutrition, exercise, and cardiovascular health—supports long-term hearing preservation. Audiology First’s Prevention Programs We provide preventive screenings, personalized risk assessments, and educational resources so patients can take proactive steps toward protecting their hearing health. Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss is not a typical hearing problem…it’s a medical emergency. If you or someone you know experiences sudden hearing loss, don’t wait, contact Audiology First immediately during business hours, or contact any other trusted hearing care clinic. If you cannot reach us, please seek immediate medical attention. Book your hearing evaluation today and take the first proactive step in protecting your long-term hearing health.