At your hearing aid fitting appointment, your audiologist will first use a prescription based on your hearing loss to program your hearing aids. Some adjustments may be made at that time based on how you are hearing during the initial visit. The audiologist will then explain how to use the devices, how to put them in your ear and remove them, and how to care for and clean the devices. It is a good idea to bring family members or close friends to the hearing aid fitting so they can help remember all of the information that is given and be a support to you.
When you put the hearing aids in for the first time, you may have different reactions to the sounds you hear. This is normal and to be expected. The goal of the hearing aid is to make everyday sounds audible and comfortable, but the sound you hear should be clear and pleasant. Your audiologist may do testing to make sure the hearing aids are giving you the appropriate sound levels.
The hearing aid fitting is only a starting point in the process; other changes to customize the hearing to your preference may need to take place over a few appointments, as you wear the hearing aids in more situations and adapt to all of the new sounds you are hearing. Be sure to give feedback to the audiologist about your perceptions throughout your trial period to ensure your concerns are addressed. Keep in mind that it may take some time to get used to the sounds you were missing, and by working closely with your audiologist, you will get the most out of your new hearing aids.