Discovering you or a loved one may have a hearing loss can be upsetting and confusing. At Hearing Help of Westchester, we want to provide you with the information to help you understand your options and feel better about your choices. Here are some general FAQs to start learning more about hearing loss and how it affects you.

What are the different types of hearing loss?

Sensory hearing loss:
This type of loss is caused by a deterioration of the hearing nerve. It is usually irreversible but can often benefit greatly from prescribed hearing aids.

Conductive hearing loss:
Any disorder of the outer ear or middle ear (the area behind the eardrum) may cause a failure to transmit or “conduct” sound to the cochlear nerve. This type of hearing loss can often be treated medically with prescribed drugs or surgically to correct the pathway for the transmitted sounds.

Mixed hearing loss:
A combination of both sensory and conductive hearing loss in the same ear will result in mixed hearing losses.

What is an audiogram?

An audiogram is a graph that an Audiologist uses to display the results of a hearing test. The audiogram shows frequencies which generally range from 125 Hz- 8000 Hz. The loudness levels range in decibels range from -5dB HL to 120 dB HL. This graph along with additional speech testing constitutes the basis for everyone to understand the dynamics of a person’s hearing sensitivity.

Who is an Audiologist?

An Audiologist is a trained professional who specializes in the testing and diagnosing of hearing and balance. A doctorate or AuD is needed to be able to work as an Audiologist. Once schooling is finished, a standardized test must be taken in each state in order to become licensed there. In order to become licensed in the state of New York, an Audiologist must complete a Clinical Fellowship Year.

How does a hearing aid work?

Hearing aids are sophisticated instruments designed to amplify sounds in the frequencies that may be impaired. There are different styles of hearing aids with unique technologies to suit individual hearing needs, including behind-the-ear, in-the-ear, half shell, canal and completely-in-the-ear.