DEAR MAYO CLINIC: I've heard about the new over-the-counter hearing devices, but I'm not sure if they'll work for me. What do I need to know? And what should I consider as I make my decision?
ANSWER: Hearing loss can be a significant quality of life issue for people. There are certainly many benefits to visiting with an audiology practice or specialist. People with moderate hearing loss are good candidates for hearing aids bought over the counter without medical exams or professional fittings. Think of these devices as you would "cheater" glasses — they fill a need until you're ready for traditional hearing aids.
There are many different types of hearing aids, and it can be challenging to choose the right one. To determine if these devices are a good fit for you, here are some things to consider before you buy.
