Should You Consider OTC Hearing Aids?

You may have seen ads for over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids recently. OTC hearing aids are somewhat new to the market, so you may be wondering if they are a good option for you or your loved one. This blog post will discuss what OTC hearing aids are, how they work and some pros and cons to consider before making a purchase, along with why seeing an audiologist is always beneficial.

Prescription Hearing Aids vs. OTC Hearing Aids

First, it is important to understand the difference between prescription hearing aids and OTC hearing aids. Prescription hearing aids are custom-made based on an individual’s hearing loss, ear size and lifestyle needs. They require a comprehensive evaluation by a licensed audiologist to determine the best course of treatment.

OTC hearing aids are one size fits all devices that anyone can purchase without a prescription. They are not custom-made and do not require an audiologist evaluation. OTC hearing aids must meet certain FDA regulations regarding noise reduction capabilities, frequency response, sound output and labeling requirements. Because of this, they can be seen as less reliable. OTC hearing aids are for self-perceived mild-to-moderate hearing loss.

How Do OTC Hearing Aids Work?

OTC hearing aids use pre-programmed settings to amplify sound. They typically have three different listening modes that can be adjusted by the user depending on the listening situation. Some OTC hearing aids also come with Bluetooth capabilities so they can be connected to a smartphone or other device.

The Pros and Cons of OTC Hearing Aids

There are several reasons people consider using OTC hearing aids. Many people feel they are easier to obtain since no prescription is required. At the same time, they usually have a shorter learning curve than prescription hearing aids because they don’t need to be custom-fit or programmed by an audiologist. However, that isn’t always a benefit.

While there are some potential benefits to using OTC hearing aids, there are also some drawbacks to consider. Not only may they not address all types of hearing loss because they only come in one size and cannot be custom-fit like prescription hearing aids, they may not provide as much benefit as prescription hearing aids because they only have three pre-set listening modes compared to the dozens or even hundreds of settings that can be programmed into prescription hearing aids.

It’s also important to realize that you will not have access to the services of a licensed professional like an audiologist if you experience any problems with your device or have questions about its use.

Selecting a Hearing Aid

There is a lot to consider before purchasing an over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aid. These devices are less cost-effective than prescription hearing aids but they also don’t provide as much benefit because they only have three pre-set listening modes compared to the dozens or even hundreds of settings that can be programmed into prescription models.

This is why it’s essential for you to see an audiologist so that you can ensure your hearing aids are tailored to your personal hearing. Be sure to make your appointment today.