Ask The Audiologist – April 2025

My job requires me to use a head-set for extended durations of time. I have read that noise-induced hearing loss can occur with the use of headphones or earbuds. Is this something that I should be concerned about?

A: There are several factors that can contribute to a hearing loss. One of which can be the duration at which a person is exposed to loud noises. A noise-induced hearing loss can occur when an individual is exposed to loud sounds for either an extended duration of time or an extremely elevated level of sound that occurs one-time. Damage to the heir cells in the cochlea is what causes hearing loss. The most common examples of noise that contributes to this type of hearing loss are gunshots or fireworks, construction or factory work, concerts, machinery noise or loud music.

High levels of volume over long periods of time can certainly contribute to hearing loss.  It is important to consider the type of headphone that is being used. Noise-cancelling headphones are beneficial because they typical limit the external noises, which allows the user to listen to music and conversations at a lower volume.

Another helpful tip for avoiding damage to your auditory system while utilizing headphones is to limit the output and duration of use. Limiting the output of the headphones to 60% of the maximum volume for 60 minutes a day is best.

If you feel like your hearing has been impacted by utilizing headphones or a headset, it is never a bad idea to have an audiologist check your hearing sensitivity.

I’m hesitant to start the process of having my hearing checked. Where do I begin, and if I were to get a hearing aid, would I hear normally again?

A: If you feel that your ability to hear is starting to decline, your first step would be to schedule a hearing evaluation with an audiologist. In recent years, certain Medicare Advantage plans have started covering hearing tests and a portion of hearing aids. It is best to contact your insurance provider to determine an audiologist that is in your network. At your initial appointment, an audiologist will ask you questions related to your health and hearing abilities. A hearing test will be conducted, and the audiologist will go over the results with you. At this point, it will be determined if you are ready for hearing aids and what technology level and style will best fit your daily needs.

When dealing with an age-related hearing loss, also known as presbycusis, the best treatment option is a hearing aid. A hearing aid cannot replicate the natural process of hearing and will not restore your hearing to normal; however, it can greatly improve the clarity of speech. Fitting a hearing aid is not a one-size-fits-all method. It is a very individualized process that is based off the results of your hearing test.  Not only will a hearing aid improve upon the clarity of speech; but, more importantly, it can help restore your quality of life by allowing you to interact and participate in activities that could be challenging with a hearing impairment.

I have noticed that I can hear people are talking, but I can’t always understand what they are saying, especially in background noise.  Does this mean that I have a hearing loss, and will this problem continue to get worse?

A: Difficulty understanding speech is one of the first signs of a hearing loss that individuals tend to notice.  You may perceive other individuals to be speaking quietly or mumbling; however, it could be a problem with your hearing ability. Other common signs of a hearing loss include asking for frequent repetitions, increased volume on the television, phone, or other devices, and trouble hearing high-pitched sounds. Age-related hearing loss, known as presbycusis, tends to happen very gradually over a period of time, so it is not uncommon for a person to be unaware of the occurring change in hearing perception.

If you or a loved one feels that they are experiencing difficulty hearing, it is never too soon to visit an audiologist. An audiologist is a health-care professional who is training in diagnosing and managing hearing loss and other disorders of the auditory system. A hearing test will be performed to determine your amount of hearing loss and a corresponding plan of action. An untreated hearing loss will not resolve on its own and has also been linked to social isolation, cognitive decline, and decreased quality of life.

Does insurance cover hearing aids?

A: Over the past several years, certain Medicare Advantage plans have started to provide a hearing aid benefit. Medicare Advantage plans, also know as Part C, offer extra benefits that traditional Medicare doesn’t cover – hearing aids are typically part of this coverage.  One of the most common Medicare Advantage plans in our area is Geisinger Gold. There are different levels of plans, but several offer a benefit for hearing aids.

There are several ways to determine if you or a loved one has an insurance benefit for hearing aids. The information that was provided at the time of registration should include a document called Summary of Benefits, which explains everything that is covered. Typically, at the end of the document, is information about hearing and hearing aids. The number on the back of the card is also another helpful resource. An insurance representative should be able to determine if your specific plan has a benefit for hearing devices. The representative should also be able to tell you which providers accept your insurance benefit.

At Ambrose Hearing Center, we accept most Medicare Advantage plans and are in-network with most major insurance providers. Besides Geisinger Gold, some of the other notable insurances with hearing aid benefits are United Health Care, Aetna, and Humana. We know that quality of life is greatly affected by untreated hearing loss and are here to help.

Do you have a question you’d like answered? Please email [email protected]. For more information, please visit www.ambrosehearing.com.