Categories
Hearing Challenges

Dr. Nesson Discusses Face Masks & the Hearing Challenges That Come With Them.

This article was originally published in the January 2021 edition of Heartrepreneur® Magazine. Read and purchase the full magazine edition here.

Now That People Are Wearing Masks, Are You Tired of Saying “What?”

Is this you? Face masks are now required in many public places to help prevent the spread of coronavirus. If you have noticed that having a normal conversation is frustrating and that you are asking people to repeat what they have said, you are not alone. Face masks add an extra challenge to hear normal conversation when they are speaking to you with a mask on their face.

A friend’s mom who works in a dental office recently shared with me that because of face masks, when patients arrive, she is really struggling to hear what they are saying. Unconsciously, when we speak with other people, we use visual cues, like reading lips, to help us hear and understand what is being said. But now, with face masks covering people’s mouths, those visual cues are gone. Those with even a mild hearing loss are now finding it much more difficult to have a normal conversation without saying “what”.


Helpful strategies for communicating when wearing a mask include:

• Asking others to speak slowly, clearly and at a normal volume.

• Rephrase remarks when not understood.

• Take turns when speaking.

• If wearing hearing aids, make sure to have them on.

• Keep background noise in the room to a minimum.

• Face each other (from a safe distance).

So now what? If you are frustrated and ready to hear a conversation without missing a thing, you should get the help you need now. At Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, we utilize our proprietary H.E.A.R. Method™ in hearing aid selection, verification and fitting so that you never miss another word—guaranteed.

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Hearing Loss

What “Degree of Hearing Loss” Means

Only a Doctor of Audiology can accurately measure your personal degree of hearing loss so you can receive the right treatment.

Hearing Loss Can Affect Everyone in Different Ways

Just as you can have different amounts of vision loss, you can have different degrees of hearing loss, ranging from mild to profound. In addition, your hearing is measured across a range of pitches from low to high. And your degree of hearing loss can vary across pitches. For example, you may have increased hearing loss in the high pitches with minimal loss, or normal hearing in the low pitches. In fact, this is the most common configuration of hearing loss and is why you often can hear but can’t always understand what people are saying, since you are missing high-pitched speech sounds.

The degree of hearing loss is based on the audiometric thresholds that are measured during a comprehensive hearing test. Hearing is tested for low, middle, and high pitches for both the right and left ears and is plotted on a graph called an audiogram. The degrees of hearing loss vary from mild to severe and profound.

Your Doctor of Audiology will discuss the degrees of hearing loss across pitches in more depth with you following your hearing evaluation. Here is an example of an audiogram and degree of hearing loss that can be used:

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Hearing Loss

Types of Hearing Loss Explained

Hearing loss can be categorized into three unique categories. These hearing loss types range from minor hearing loss to severe.

Conductive Hearing Loss

Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound passing through the outer and/or middle ear is disrupted. Some examples of these disruptions include excessive earwax in the ear canal, damage to the eardrum (by cotton swabs or other means), fluid buildup in the middle ear with or without infection, and disease of the middle ear bones, such as otosclerosis. Depending on the cause of the conductive hearing loss, other symptoms, such as ear pain, drainage from the ears, or a feeling of pressure or blockage in the ears, may occur. Approximately 10 percent of all hearing losses are conductive, which can range from mild to moderate in severity. Conductive hearing loss can often be medically treated, and, in many cases, hearing can be restored.


Sensorineural Hearing Loss

Sensorineural hearing loss occurs when a problem exists in the inner ear of the hearing system. Sensorineural hearing loss is the most common type of hearing loss. Roughly 90 percent of hearing aid wearers have sensorineural hearing loss. The most common causes of sensorineural hearing loss are noise exposure, genetics, and problems with the hearing nerve. Sensorineural hearing loss is permanent, and currently, there is no cure. The best treatment option for this type of hearing loss is to be fit with hearing aids. For persons with complete, or profound, sensorineural hearing loss, cochlear implants may also be an option.

Mixed Hearing Loss

Mixed hearing loss can occur when both conductive and sensorineural hearing conditions are present. Only a Doctor of Audiology can accurately measure your personal degree of hearing loss so you can receive the right treatment.

If your hearing is impacted by any of these conditions above, it may be time to have your hearing evalulated using a verified appraoch. Using our proprietary H.E.A.R. Method™, Hearing Doctors of New Jersey ensures you never miss another word- guaranteed. Contact our offices today to learn more and schedule an appointment.

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Hearing Aids

Differences in Hearing Aid Types

Differences in Hearing Aid Types

If you’re getting hearing aids for the first time, you might be surprised to learn that there are many types available based on your individual needs. With these choices can come some confusion about what hearing aid type is right for you. At Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, our Doctors of Audiology will help you find a customized solution so you never say “what” again. Read more about the differences in hearing aid types and styles below.

Hearing Aid Type: In-the-ear (ITE) Hearing Aids

In-the-ear, or ITE, hearing aids are custom fit from an impression taken of your ear to ensure that they fit snugly and comfortably within the ear canal. In-the-ear hearing aids are best if you have moderate hearing loss or greater.

Advantages of ITE style include:

  • Low risk of wind noise
  • Customized, comfortable fit

Cons of ITE style include:

  • Due to its small size, it is not recommended if you have dexterity issues
  • Batteries will need to be changed weekly
  • Will not connect to your cell phone directly

Hearing aid style: Invisible-in-canal (IIC) and Completely-in-canal (CIC)

Among ITE hearing aids, two subcategories are available: Invisible in the canal (IIC) and completely in the canal (CIC).

Advantages of IIC and CIC include:

  • Virtually invisible, fitting deeply within the ear canal

Cons of IIC and CIC include:

  • Battery will need to be changed every 3-4 days
  • Small removal string attached to the hearing aid can be difficult if you have dexterity issues

Hearing aid style: In-the-canal (ITC) and Low-Profile (LP)

In-the-canal (ITC) and low-profile (LP) hearing aids are essentially the same. These two types of hearing aids fit in the outer part of the ear and are larger overall that IIC or CIC hearing aids.

Advantages of ITC and LP include:

  • Larger size is easier to handle
  • Typically have a longer battery life
  • Due to its larger size, the hearing aid can include more manual controls (ie. Volume and Programs)

Cons of ITC and LP include:

  • May make you feel as though your ears are plugged

Hearing aid type: Behind-the-ear (BTE) Hearing Aids

Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids consist of an outer housing which sits behind the ear. This type of hearing aid a better option if you have severe hearing loss. Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids are attached to a custom earmold. 

Advantages of BTE include:  

  • Delivers a lot of power to help you if you have severe hearing loss
  • Large battery will last up to 2 weeks
  • Rechargeable options are available
  • Can be connected to your iPhone and select Android devices

Cons of BTE include:

  • Visible to others

Hearing aid type: Receiver-in-canal (RIC) and Receiver-in-the-ear (RITE)

Receiver-in-canal (RIC) and receiver-in-the-canal (RITE) hearing aids consist of an outer housing that sits behind the ear connected to a thin receiver which sits in the ear canal.

Advantages of RIC and RITE include:

  • Natural sound quality
  • Rechargeable batteries
  • Can be connected to your iPhone and select Android devices
  • Custom earmolds can be made to address different degrees of hearing loss
  • If you have a mild to severe hearing loss, you can wear this hearing aid type
  • Larger size is easier to handle

Cons of RIC and RITE include:

  • Can be awkward to put into your ear initially
  • If not fit properly, the hearing aid will not help you hear well

How Do I Choose the Right Hearing Aid Style?

The best hearing aid option for you will depend on your degree of hearing loss, your listening lifestyle, and your own personal preferences. At Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, our proprietary H.E.A.R. MethodTM ensures a customized hearing solution just for you so you will never say “what” again – Guaranteed.

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Local Services

Hearing Services in Springfield, NJ

At Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, we provide expert hearing services to meet a variety of needs. With the help of one of our Doctors of Audiology you can explore your treatment options for hearing loss and begin to live your best life again. Here are some of our hearing services available in the greater Springfield, NJ area.

Adult Hearing Assessments

A hearing assessment is the first step toward better hearing. During a comprehensive hearing assessment, one of our Doctors of Audiology will perform testing to measure your hearing loss, explore possible causes, and discuss the next steps in your treatment program. At Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, we use the latest technologies and testing methods to get a complete picture of your hearing ability and use it to make informed medical decisions about your hearing treatment program.

Hearing Aids

At Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, you can find everything you need to purchase, maintain, and fit your hearing aids. Our team offers the expertise and knowledge you need to ensure that your advanced hearing technology is prescribed to your exact needs. We work with the following hearing aid manufacturers:

  • Oticon
  • Starkey
  • Widex
  • Phonak
  • ReSound

Hearing Aid Repairs & Fittings

Getting the most out of your hearing aids requires a knowledgeable Doctor of Audiology. In Springfield, we are one of the leading hearing aid service providers and can help ensure your hearing aids continue to work the way they should. Whether you need repairs or fitting, our team can offer a full complement of hearing aid services.

Central Auditory Processing Evaluation

At Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, we take a personalized approach to testing for central auditory processing disorders (CAPD). Our comprehensive testing protocol will identify whether you or your child have an auditory processing disorder.  Once the testing has been completed, we will work with you and other education and medical professionals to provide an individualized treatment program that works.

H.E.A.R. MethodTM Treatment Program

At Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, you can find the most comprehensive solution to hearing loss in Springfield, NJ and the greater Livingston area. With our proprietary H.E.A.R. MethodTM Treatment Program, you’ll get ongoing, thorough care that addresses your specific hearing needs and uses the most advanced technologies available.

Schedule an Appointment

To learn more about our hearing services in Springfield and what you can expect from Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, schedule an appointment today by calling or filling out our online form.

About Springfield, NJ

Springfield, New Jersey is famously home to the Baltusrol Golf Club, which hosts several major golf championships including the PGA Championship. Additionally, Springfield was the site of the Battle of Springfield during the American Revolutionary War, one of the many battles fought around New Jersey. Springfield is a township in Union County and one of the fastest growing townships in the country as of the 2020 census. Springfield is located 6 miles from our Livingston office.

Categories
Hearing Loss

Simple Tips to Make Life Easier For Those With Hearing Loss

It’s very likely that you have someone in your life who struggles with hearing loss. Although your friend or loved one might only experience it to a small degree, the reality is that about 50 million Americans have debilitating hearing loss. Although it may not seem like a challenge, hearing loss can affect nearly all areas of your life – and your loved one can struggle because of it. Here are some ways you can help lessen the impact of hearing loss and make sure your loved one is set up to succeed.

Communicate Effectively

When you have hearing loss, it can be difficult to keep up during conversations. It can also be difficult to tell when someone is trying to talk to you, either in a social situation or from another room. Make sure to get your friend’s attention before speaking so that they can see your face and lips to get the gist of what you’re saying. This means avoiding shouting from another room or covering up your mouth while talking. Avoid raising your voice when speaking in the hopes they can hear you better – this can make it harder to understand what you’re trying to communicate. And if you’re in a group situation, avoid talking over each other and make sure that your friend is included and kept up-to-pace with the conversation.

Manage the Environment

Certain environments can pose extra challenges to people with hearing loss. Places with steady and excessive background noise can take away from their ability to hear the conversation, and dimly-lit environments can make it hard for them to lipread. This can mean you may need to change your plans to avoid busy restaurants or venues in favor of more private settings. If you do go out, let your loved one select a seat where they can hear more effectively, and make sure to accommodate their wishes for everyone’s seating arrangements.

Understand the Impact

Hearing loss can affect more than just their social enjoyment – your friend or loved one can often experience what’s called hearing fatigue. This often happens after extended periods of concentrated listening, like in group situations or environments where it’s difficult to keep up with the conversation. It occurs because the brain works extra hard to decipher conversations and keep up with the context. If your friend or loved one can’t socialize for long periods of time, make sure to understand that it can be physically and mentally exhausting for them. Try to accommodate them taking a break in another room for a while, or keep events on the shorter side so they don’t feel bad about leaving early.

Don’t Be Dismissive

It’s natural to be frustrated sometimes when interacting with someone with hearing loss. Rest assured that it’s even more frustrating for your friend. Although it can be tedious, always make sure to try and communicate calmly and patiently rather than giving up on repeating yourself or dismissing their requests with a “never mind.” If you need to repeat yourself multiple times, try rephrasing what you’ve said, use gestures or other methods of communication, or ask your friend what they’ve already heard so you can help them understand the rest of your meaning. Showing visible frustration can cause your friend or loved one even more distress at what’s already a very difficult and isolating situation.

Encourage Treatment

If your friend or loved one hasn’t already partnered with a Doctor of Audiology, it’s extremely important that they do so. The most effective way to treat hearing loss is with hearing aid technologies, and it can be very daunting to take this important step. One of the best ways you can support your loved one is by encouraging them to seek treatment – not because you’re tired of accommodating their hearing loss, but because you want them to enjoy a healthy and socially active lifestyle. The fact is, hearing aids can help restore some of their social mobility and feelings of isolation, drastically improving mental health. Gentle encouragement that they begin by exploring their options for hearing aids can go a long way!

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Hearing Aids

10 Reasons Why Hearing Aids Are Not Like Glasses

There are many misconceptions about hearing aids. Oftentimes, people do not understand how they work or what they do. This can lead to frustration or shame for the person who requires the help of hearing aids. Many think that hearing aids can simply be compared to the function of glasses, but this is not the case. Below is a list of 10 reasons why hearing aids are not like glasses.

  1. Unlike glasses that give you near perfect vision, hearing aids do not give you perfect hearing. Instead, they amplify all sounds, even the ones you may not want to hear.
  1. Adjusting to wearing new glasses takes hardly any time at all. When it comes to getting hearing aids, it can take more time to get used to the way they work. Since they amplify all sounds, it might be frustrating or confusing for a while. Eventually, your brain will adjust to all the new sounds. Higher quality hearing aids will compress those background noises better, but it will still require time to adjust.
  1. Hearing aids require batteries to function. Obviously, glasses do not need anything besides the frame and lenses to help you see. The batteries on hearing aids need to be replaced every so often in order to work.
  1. Since hearing aids are an electrical device, they can never get wet.
  1. Glasses can be seen as a fashion accessory, and come in a wide variety of styles. Hearing aids are only there to serve a function and are even designed to hardly be noticeable.
  1. There is still some stigma around wearing hearing aids. Glasses have become a widely accepted necessity, but people don’t always react the same way to someone who needs help hearing.
  1. Unfortunately, most hearing aids are not regularly covered by your insurance provider. This makes them far more expensive and difficult to replace or even purchase, and because of this some people may not even be able to afford them. Glasses are usually covered by insurance and are often cheaper than hearing aids in general.
  1. Hearing aids are small, making them easy to lose or misplace.
  1. Since hearing aids amplify all sound, they can also increase your sensitivity to loud sounds. Comparatively, glasses never increase your sensitivity to light or certain images.
  1. Sometimes, hearing aids can let out a sharp sound. This can be uncomfortable and inconvenient, disrupting your day to day life. The biggest inconvenience glasses can really cause are getting dirty. But all you have to do is wipe them off to quickly fix that problem.

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Categories
HDNJ News

Dr. Rhee Nesson Answers Questions on Hearing Loss and Aging

Recently, Dr. Rhee Nesson, Au.D., CCC-A met with Lisa Bayer, J.D., CCM to learn more about the importance of good hearing health for everyone, but particularly older adults who may be showing signs of dementia and other age-related medical and psychological conditions. Dr. Nesson is the owner and founder of Hearing Doctors of New Jersey with an office in Livingston, New Jersey.

According to Dr. Nesson, poor hearing can increase the risk of:

· Falls

· Cognitive Impairment (such as Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias)

· Social Isolation

· Depression

Read the entire blog and what Dr. Rhee Nesson has to say about hearing loss in older patients at lmreldercare.com.

Download a copy of the blog here

If you are ready to take the next step towards better hearing, download our Free Guide on “The 7 Insider Secrets and Lies on Buying the Right Hearing Aid” immediately.

Audiologist FAQs

Are Audiologists real doctors?

Yes! Audiologists hold a doctoral degree in Audiology (Au.D.), and holds the title of Doctor of Audiology. Doctors of Audiology specialize in diagnosing and treating hearing, balance, and tinnitus disorders in adults and children. To become a Doctor of Audiology, one must complete an audiology doctoral program which includes three years of didactic and clinical instruction, as well as a one-year externship, similar to a medical residency program.

Can a hearing test damage your hearing?

No. It is not possible for a hearing test to damage your hearing.

Can an audiologist diagnose an ear infection?

Audiologists are able to confirm the presence of an ear infection through otoscopic inspection in conjunction with performing a test of your middle ear function (called a tympanogram). This medical test, referred to as Tympanometry, allows the Audiologist to measures the function and movement of the eardrum and middle ear and confirm the presence or absence of fluid.

Can an audiologist diagnose tinnitus?

Yes. A trained Audiologist possess specific tools and clinical protocols to evaluate, diagnose and treat tinnitus.

How do I train to be an audiologist?

To become an Audiologist, you will need to earn a doctoral degree in audiology (Au.D) which is a four-year graduate program that you can enter once you have a bachelor’s degree in any field. Often, Au.D. programs have specific requirements to apply including completed coursework in Speech and Hearing/Communication Sciences. nnOnce enrolled in the Au.D. program, for the first two years, students will complete coursework, observational learning, clinical orientation, written exams and practical assessments. During the third and fourth year, students will have more hands-on experience through internships, externships and other “capstone” style intensive projects.nnUpon graduation, students will need to apply for state licensure in order to practice within the field of Audiology. Requirements for licensure vary from state-to-state. While certification is voluntary, it can be an important to obtain credentials from governing audiology organizations such as the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and the American Board of Audiology.

Can an audiologist treat tinnitus?

Yes. Trained Audiologists have specific tools and clinical protocols to evaluate and diagnose tinnitus. The first step in treating tinnitus is to perform an inventory test to measure the subjective burden a patient experiences because of their tinnitus.nBecause tinnitus is often caused by hearing loss, the Audiologist will then perform a comprehensive audiological evaluation that measures the patients overall hearing health. After the comprehensive audiological evaluation has been performed, the Audiologist will measure the patients subjective perception of tinnitus sound, pitch, and volume. Additional objective measurements to evaluate the middle ear should also be performed including the Tympanogram, Acoustic Reflex Testing and Otoacoustic Emission Testing. By completing a comprehensive Tinnitus Evaluation, the Audiologist will be able to work with the patient to develop a comprehensive treatment plan.

Can an audiologist write prescriptions?

No. Audiologists cannot write prescriptions for medications that are filled by a pharmacist.

Do audiologists go to medical school?

No they do not. An Audiologist has earned a clinical doctoral degree in audiology (Au.D). which is a four-year graduate program that you can enter once you have a bachelor’s degree in any field.

How is an audiology test done?

An audiology test or hearing evaluation is a comprehensive examination performed by a licensed Audiologist. A comprehensive hearing evaluation should initially begin with a review of your full case history as well as the completion of at least one hearing inventory test to measure the subjective impact hearing has on ones life. After the initial case history has been obtained, objective measurements should be performed to evaluate the middle ear including the Tympanogram, Acoustic Reflex Testing and Otoacoustic Emission Testing. Next, the Audiologist will perform a comprehensive audiological evaluation that measures the patients overall hearing health. Finally, the results will be explained to the patient.

How long does audiology test take?

A comprehensive hearing evaluation or audiology test should take between thirty minutes to one hour to complete.

Should I go to an audiologist or ENT?

An ENT and an Audiologist will work together to determine the best treatment plan for patients. If you are noticing difficulty hearing, an Audiologist will be able to determine what the nature of your hearing loss is and make the appropriate recommendation for treatment. If you see an Audiologist and they detect the presence of a medical condition within your ear, you would likely be referred to an ENT. If you are experiencing pain or swelling in your ears, then you would want to see your medical doctor or go directly to an ENT, who is a specialist in this area.

What hours do audiologists work?

Audiologists work in many different types of facilities; often between 40–50 hours per week. Although some Audiologists do work part-time. Audiologists frequently work in private practice, with other medical specialists, speech-language pathologists, educators, engineers, scientists, and allied health professionals.

What is the difference between ENT and audiologist?

While an Audiologist only deals with the ears, an ENT doctor treats patients for diseases or conditions of the ears, but also the nose or throat. You should see an Audiologist for diagnosis and treatment of hearing loss and related problems like tinnitus or balance issues. Typically, ENT doctors do not perform comprehensive hearing examinations or treat hearing loss.

What kind of doctor do I need to see for vertigo?

An ENT and an Audiologist will work together to determine the best treatment plan for patients. If you are experiencing vertigo, through vestibular testing, an Audiologist will be able to determine what the nature of your vertigo and make the appropriate recommendation for treatment. If you see an Audiologist and they detect the presence of a medical condition within your ear, you would likely be referred to an ENT.

Do Audiologists treat vertigo?

Yes. Trained Audiologists will be able to determine what the nature of your vertigo is and make the appropriate recommendation for treatment.

What are the pros and cons of being an audiologist?

Being an Audiologist is extremely rewarding. US News and World Reports ranks the profession of Audiology among the top healthcare jobs. nnThe PROs of being an audiologist include:nAudiologists are able to help those in need hearnAudiology is a growing professionnAudiologists earn excellent paynnSome CONs of being an audiologist include:nWork can be frustratingnLong Hours and TravelnExtensive education is required

What do they do during a hearing test?

A hearing test or hearing evaluation is a comprehensive examination performed by a licensed Audiologist. A comprehensive hearing evaluation should initially begin with a review of your full case history as well as the completion of at least one hearing inventory test to measure the subjective impact hearing has on ones life. After the initial case history has been obtained, objective measurements should be performed to evaluate the middle ear including the Tympanogram, Acoustic Reflex Testing and Otoacoustic Emission Testing. Next, the Audiologist will perform a comprehensive audiological evaluation that measures the patients overall hearing health. Finally, the results will be explained to the patient.

What does an audiologist mean?

Au-di-ol-o-gists: Audiologists are licensed healthcare professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating hearing, balance and tinnitus disorders in both adults and children. An Audiologist who holds a doctoral degree in Audiology (Au. D.) has completed an Au.D. program which includes three years of didactic and clinical instruction and a one-year externship, similar to a medical residency. An Audiologist who completes an Au.D. program holds the title of a Doctor of Audiology and is referred to as an audiologist.

What can I expect from an audiologist?

An Audiologist is a licensed healthcare professionals who specializes in diagnosing and treating hearing, balance and tinnitus disorders in adults and children.

What qualifications do you need to be a audiologist?

In order to become an Audiologist, you need to earn a doctoral degree in audiology (Au.D) which is a four-year graduate program that you can enter once you have a bachelor’s degree in any field. Often, Au.D. programs have specific requirements to apply including completed coursework in Speech and Hearing/Communication Sciences. nnOnce enrolled in the Au.D. program, for the first two years, students will complete coursework, observational learning, clinical orientation, written exams and practical assessments. During the third and fourth year, students will have more hands-on experience through internships, externships and other “capstone” style intensive projects.nnUpon graduation, students will need to apply for state licensure in order to practice within the field of Audiology. Requirements for licensure vary from state-to-state. While certification is voluntary, it can be an important to obtain credentials from governing audiology organizations such as the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and the American Board of Audiology. In order to maintain professional licensure, an Audiologist must also be up to date on continuing education requirements.

What kind of doctor do I see for vertigo?

If you are experiencing vertigo, through vestibular testing an ENT and an Audiologist often work together to determine the best treatment plan for patients with vertigo. Audiologist will be able to determine what the nature of your vertigo and make the appropriate recommendation for treatment.

What is the difference between an otologist and an audiologist?

An Otologist and an Audiologist often work together to determine the best treatment plan for their patients. If you are noticing difficulty hearing, an Audiologist will be able to determine what the nature of your hearing loss is and make the appropriate recommendation for treatment. If you see an Audiologist and they detect the presence of a medical condition within your ear, you would likely be referred to an ENT or Otologist. If you are experiencing pain or swelling in your ears, then you would want to see your medical doctor or go directly to an Otologist or ENT, who is a specialist in this area.

Why do I need an audiologist to get my hearing tested?

Hearing care is health care. You most likely would want to trust a professional health care provider for anything relating to your health, as you would for an optometrist at an eye appointment, or perhaps a pediatrician for your child. A licensed doctor of audiology is an individual who has the degrees, certifications, and licensing to take care of your hearing and truly understand your needs unlike a hearing aid dispenser who is only trained to sell a hearing aid.

What is the difference between an audiologist and a hearing aid dispenser?

While audiologists can be hearing aid dispensers, not all hearing aid dispensers are audiologists.nAn audiologist is a Doctor of Audiology who is a specialist for your auditory and vestibular systems. An audiologist is the only licensed professional who can treat your comprehensive hearing and balance health. nnDo not be misguided by the impression a white lab coat presents in the hearing care industry. Be well-informed and know in advance if you will be seen by an audiologist or hearing aid dispenser (HAD). The goal of a hearing aid dispenser is to sell you a hearing aid. They are not educated in your overall hearing health.

Categories
Local Services

Hearing Aid Services Near Florham Park, NJ

At only four miles away from Florham Park, NJ, Hearing Doctors of New Jersey is available to all of the town’s residents who are looking for treatment for hearing impairment

Whether you need a hearing assessment, new hearing aids, an evaluation for CAPD, or are looking for a fully comprehensive treatment plan, our experienced team at our Livingston office is more than happy to help you achieve all your hearing goals.

Adult Hearing Assessments

An adult hearing assessment is a test that will help your Doctor of Audiology determine whether you have a hearing impairment and if so, to what degree it’s at. Once we have that information, we can choose the right treatment to fit your needs. With so many types of hearing impairment, it’s important to establish which kind you have and what the cause is so we can find the best treatment for your individual needs.

During your hearing test, you don’t need to do anything besides listen as best you can. Your Doctor of Audiology will guide you through the assessment and then explain the results and treatment plan to you.

But the adult hearing assessment is more than just the hearing test. It first starts with learning about your medical history. This includes what medication you’re on and what conditions you have or have had in the past. Next, we examine the ear for any obstructions or damage that may be causing hearing loss. The final step is the hearing test and analysis.

Hearing Aids

Hearing aids are one treatment option for hearing loss that can be very effective. They are worn in the ear or outside the ear to allow those with hearing loss to hear more clearly. They typically consist of a microphone, an amplifier, and a speaker and can work in both quiet environments and noisy ones. The type that is best for you depends on your degree of hearing loss.

There are a wide variety of different types of hearing aids and hearing aid manufacturers. On your own, it may be daunting to figure out which one is right for your needs, but your Doctor of Audiology will help you choose the right one for your level of hearing impairment.

The hearing aid manufacturers we offer at Hearing Doctors of New Jersey include:

  • Starkey
  • Oticon
  • Widex
  • Phonak
  • ReSound

Hearing Aid Repairs & Fittings

We also provide hearing aid repairs and fittings at Hearing Doctors of New Jersey. Whether your hearing aid isn’t working well enough, stops working entirely, or becomes broken, we can ensure you get it repaired and have it back as quickly as possible.

Generally, if a repair is quick and easy, we can perform it in-house and get you back to your day. But if the issue is more extreme, it may need to be sent to the manufacturer to be repaired. We’ll help you send it in and ensure you have the tools to manage your day-to-day without your hearing aid.

As for fittings, you likely won’t wear a hearing aid that doesn’t fit your ear. That’s why we fit the device to your ear to ensure it’s completely comfortable. You should barely even notice that it’s there.

Central Auditory Processing Evaluation

Central auditory processing disorder (CAPD) is a condition often found in children and presents itself very similarly to ADD and ADHD. That’s what makes it so difficult to diagnose. With CAPD, the brain and ears aren’t communicating correctly which makes it difficult to identify spoken words, concentrate, and remember instructions.

To correctly diagnose CAPD, we offer this evaluation. Once we have the results, we can build a treatment plan that fits your exact needs. We do this with the input of occupational therapists, psychologists, speech-language pathologists, and school resources.

H.E.A.R. Method Treatment Program

The H.E.A.R. Method Treatment Program is our proprietary program that ensures you’re getting comprehensive treatment for your hearing impairment. While we want to help you with your hearing loss, we also want to look at the bigger picture as well. We want to look at how your brain and hearing work hand in hand and how one is affecting the other.

The H.E.A.R. Method is founded on our four principles and these principles make up the letters of the name of the program. It includes:

  • Hearing goals: building a treatment plan that addresses shared goals that give us a map of what we need to do to be successful
  • Engagement: we always want to have honest conversations with you and your family about your treatment plan
  • Analytics: we use hearing test results to analyze and decide on what your hearing issues are, what an effective plan may be, and what realistic expectations look like.
  • Real Results: Our biggest goal is to provide real results that are customized to your needs.

About Florham Park, NJ

Florham Park, NJ is located only about ten minutes from Livingston where Hearing Doctors of New Jersey is located. It’s a borough of Morris County and has a population of just over 13,000. The town is most well-known for being the home of the world’s largest chemical company and for its number of volunteer positions. It has a volunteer fire department, volunteer town council,  and volunteer first-aid squad.

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HDNJ News

Hearing Doctors of New Jersey Pairs Up With Right At Home of Essex County

Hearing Doctors of New Jersey is excited to announce a new partnership with Right At Home of Essex County!

Right At Home of Essex County has been a family-owned operation since 2003. Their mission is “To improve the quality of life for those we serve.” They provide in-home care to seniors, wherever their home may be – a big house, an apartment, assisted living community, or a nursing home.

Hearing Doctors of New Jersey shares the same mission as Right At Home of Essex County does, to improve the quality of life for their respective patients. Hearing Doctors of New Jersey achieves this through our proprietary H.E.A.R. Method™— to create a personalized treatment plan so you can reconnect with your family and friends through better hearing.

Read more from Dr. Rhee Nesson’s Q&A with Right at Home of Essex County here.