Experienced and Trusted Audiology
Audiology & Hearing Services brings quality hearing care to Lansing, MI and surrounding areas. Our staff stays educated and updated on all innovations and new information in the hearing care world. We can provide you with the answers you seek to all of your audiology questions and concerns. Explore our frequently asked questions below.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is An Audiologist?
Audiologists must be licensed in the state where they practice, and are regulated by the Division of Consumer Affairs. An audiologist may be awarded the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Audiology by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), otherwise known as the CCC-A. With additional training and expertise, the audiologist may receive the honor of Fellow, which is bestowed by the American Academy of Audiology (AAA).
What Types of Tests & Treatments do Audiologists Perform?
Common services and treatments provided by an audiologist include:
- Diagnostic hearing test and evaluations
- Audiologic evaluations
- Hearing aid fitting and consultation
- Hearing aid repairs and maintenance
- Pediatric hearing loss detection and treatment
- Hearing conservation and protection programs
- Earmold and earplug fitting and consultation
- Musicians earplugs and monitors
- Tinnitus treatment programs
- Dizziness and balance testing and treatment
- Ear or hearing-related surgical monitoring in hospital settings
- Hearing rehabilitation and audiologic training
- Assisting in cochlear implant programs
- Insurance billing for medically necessary diagnostic testing and hearing aids, when patients have policies that cover these benefits
How Do I Know If I Have Hearing Loss?
People notice signs of hearing loss but do not take the steps to get it treated right away. Typically, it takes people an average of seven years to seek treatment.
- You may have hearing loss if:
- You hear people speaking, but you have to strain to understand their words.
- You frequently ask people to repeat what they said.
- You don’t laugh at jokes because you miss too much of the story of the punch line.
- You frequently complain that people mumble.
- You need to ask others about the details of a meeting you just attended.
- You play the TV or radio louder than your friends, spouse, and relatives.
- You cannot hear the doorbell or telephone.
- You find that looking at people when they speak to you makes it easier to understand.
- You miss environmental sounds such as birds or leaves blowing.
- You find yourself avoiding certain restaurants because they are too noisy, or certain people, because you cannot understand them.
- You can hear a ringing sound in your ears, especially when it’s quiet.
What Causes Hearing Loss?
How is Hearing Loss Diagnosed?
If you have any symptoms of hearing loss, you should see an audiologist to have a formal hearing evaluation. This hearing test, or audiologic evaluation, is diagnostic in nature and allows the audiologist to determine the type, nature, and degree of your hearing loss. Your sensitivity, acuity, and accuracy to speech understanding will be assessed as well. The hearing evaluation will also include a thorough case history and a visual inspection of the ear canal and eardrum. Your audiologist may also test for speech understanding to see if you are a candidate for hearing aids. Additional tests of middle ear function may also be performed. The results of the evaluation can be useful to a physician, if the audiologist believes your hearing loss may benefit from medical intervention. Results of the hearing evaluation are plotted on a graph called an audiogram. The audiogram provides a visual view of your hearing test results across various pitches or frequencies and the results from your speech understanding tests are used to create a prescription by which hearing aids are programmed, if necessary.
What Are The Different Degrees of Hearing Loss?
After you undergo a hearing evaluation, the results are plotted on a chart called an audiogram. Loudness is plotted from top to bottom. The top of the graph is very quiet and the bottom of the graph is very loud. Frequency, or pitch, from low to high, is plotted from left to right. Hearing level (HL) is measured in decibels (dB) and is described in general categories, not by percentages.
The general hearing loss categories used by most hearing professionals are as follows:
- Normal hearing (0 to 25 dB HL)
- Mild hearing loss (26 to 40 dB HL)
- Moderate hearing loss (41 to 70 dB HL)
- Severe hearing loss (71 to 90 dB HL)
- Profound hearing loss (greater than 91 dB HL)
What Is Sensorineural Hearing Loss?
What Is Conductive Hearing Loss?
What Is Mixed Hearing Loss?
What Is Auditory Neuropathy Spectrum Disorder?
What Are The Signs Of Hearing Loss in Children?
Children can experience hearing loss anytime in life or from issues such as head trauma, ear infections, medications, or genetics. A pediatric audiologist is trained to test children and any symptom of hearing loss should be addressed immediately.
You child may have hearing loss if they display any of these signs:
- Daydreaming often
- Not startled at loud noises
- Frequent ear infections
- Teacher concern or failed school hearing screening
- Complaints that they cannot hear
- Delays in speech/language development, baby babbling
What Style of Hearing Aid Do I Need?
The style of hearing aid you need is entirely up to the specific needs your hearing may require. There are numerous types of hearing aids today that we provide. Whether you need an in-the-ear style or behind-the-ear style, the advanced technology provides you with many options. Hearing aids can come in many different sizes and styles. When choosing your hearing aid, the type of hearing loss, power requirements, budget, cosmetics, sensitivities, and medical considerations are all taken into account. Today, those with hearing loss are fortunate to have the option of sleek, compact, and innovative instruments.
What are Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs)?
What is Tinnitus? How Is It Caused? How is it Treated?
What is the Difference Between an Audiologist & Hearing Aid Dispenser?
A hearing aid dispenser is licenced to perform audiometric testing only for the purpose of selling and fitting hearing aids. They are not required to have 8 years of college experience under their belt as an audiologist is. Although, they are required to pass a state exam to obtain licensure, and the test varies from state to state. Some states only require hearing aid dispensers to have a high school diploma and others require completion of at least two years of college or post-secondary education. They do not receive the extensive training to the degree of an audiologist.
How can technology like Auracast™ and assistive listening devices help me hear better in noisy environments?
Modern hearing technology offers powerful solutions for improving communication in challenging listening situations. Auracast™ broadcast audio is an emerging Bluetooth® feature that allows users to stream high-quality audio directly to compatible hearing devices in public spaces—like airports, theaters, or gyms—making it easier to hear clearly without background noise interference. Similarly, Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs) such as remote microphones, personal amplifiers, and hearing-related smartphone apps can enhance speech clarity, reduce ambient noise, and even convert spoken words into text. These technologies are designed to work alongside hearing aids or cochlear implants, providing a more complete and accessible listening experience. Contact Audiology & Hearing Services to learn how these tools can be integrated into your hearing care plan.
What makes your hearing care approach different from other clinics?
Our approach is centered on personalized care. We take the time to understand your lifestyle, communication needs, and hearing goals so we can recommend solutions tailored specifically to you.
How thorough is a hearing evaluation at your clinic?
Our comprehensive evaluations include detailed diagnostic testing and a full explanation of your results so you can clearly understand your hearing health and available treatment options.
Do you help patients adjust to new hearing aids?
Absolutely. We provide personalized fittings, adjustments, and follow-up care to ensure your hearing aids are comfortable and performing their best in your everyday environments.
Can you help with hearing aid maintenance and repairs?
Yes. We provide ongoing service, maintenance, and repair support to keep your hearing devices working reliably.
Do you offer different hearing aid brands?
We work with several leading hearing aid manufacturers so we can recommend the technology that best fits your hearing needs, preferences, and budget.
I’m new to hearing aids. Will someone walk me through the process?
Yes. We guide patients through every step—from testing and technology selection to fitting and follow-up visits—so you feel confident and comfortable with your hearing solution.
What if my hearing needs change over time?
Hearing can evolve over the years. We provide ongoing evaluations and adjustments to ensure your hearing devices continue to meet your needs.
How long does it take to get used to hearing aids?
Adjustment times vary, but our team provides guidance, programming adjustments, and support during the transition to help you adapt comfortably.
What if I need help after my appointment?
We encourage patients to contact us anytime they have questions. Ongoing care and support are an important part of our hearing health services.
Can you help me choose the right hearing technology for my lifestyle?
Yes. We evaluate your hearing needs, daily environments, and preferences to recommend the hearing solutions that will work best for you.
How do hearing tests work?
Hearing tests are comprehensive evaluations conducted by hearing professionals to assess your ability to hear various sounds, pitches, and volumes. These tests typically involve wearing headphones and responding to sounds played at different frequencies and intensities to determine the type and degree of hearing loss, if any.
How can I protect my hearing health?
Protect your hearing by avoiding prolonged exposure to loud noises, using ear protection like earplugs or earmuffs in noisy settings, keeping volume levels moderate when using headphones, and maintaining regular hearing check-ups.
How often should hearing be checked?
It’s recommended to have your hearing checked annually or whenever you notice signs of hearing difficulties. Early detection is key to effective management and treatment of hearing loss.
How are hearing aids fitted and adjusted?
Hearing aids are custom-fitted by professionals who take precise ear measurements and program the devices according to your specific hearing loss profile. Adjustments are made over time to ensure comfort and optimal performance.
Are hearing services covered by insurance?
Coverage varies widely depending on your insurance plan. Many policies provide partial or full coverage for hearing tests and hearing aids, especially through specialized audiology services.
If you have more hearing care concerns, contact us at 517-323-6222 today!
Audiology & Hearing Services
6512 Centurion Dr, Suite 340
Lansing, MI 48917
517-323-6222
kdebler@audiohearingservices.com
Mon - Fri: 9AM - 5PM