Hearing aids are like eyeglasses. They help you manage the unfortunate loss of one of your five senses. And much like a pair of glasses, you need an expert to set you up with the right fit.
An expert like an audiologist — the go-to doctor for hearing-related issues. Rebecca Waymire, AuD, audiologist at The Iowa Clinic West Des Moines and Ankeny campus locations shares her expertise to help answer all the questions patients ask — or should ask — about hearing aids.
How do I know if I need a hearing aid?
The only way to know for sure is to visit an audiologist to get your hearing tested. But if you’re asking that question, you’ve already noticed the signs of hearing loss.
Common warning signs include:
- Ringing in the ears
- Difficulty understanding certain speech sounds (especially consonants)
- Muffled hearing
- Frequently asking others to repeat themselves
Many people also notice they're working harder to follow conversations or relying more on visual cues like lip reading. Over time, this can lead to mental fatigue and strain.
If you're already been diagnosed with mild hearing loss or tried assistive listening devices without much improvement, hearing aids may be the next step.
What’s the benefit of going to an audiologist at The Iowa Clinic?
Hearing aids are available in many places, from audiology clinics to big box stores. But choosing the right hearing aid is not just a retail decision. It requires comprehensive testing and an accurate diagnosis to match the device to your specific type and level of hearing loss.
“Hearing aid dispensers are licensed by the state of Iowa but the education requirement is only a high school diploma. Audiologists are required to have a master’s degrees or doctorates. So, there’s a big difference in education,” Rebecca says. “There’s also a big difference in testing. We work really closely with Ear, Nose and Throat physicians to give you more comprehensive testing and treatment options.”
What types of hearing aids are out there?
There are several styles of hearing aids, often referred to by acronyms like BTE, RIC, ITE, ITC and CIC. But most can be grouped into two main categories:
- Behind-the-ear hearing aids, BTE for short, sit behind or on top of the ear, with a small tube or wire connecting to an earpiece inside the ear canal.
- Custom in-the-ear hearing aids are custom-made to fit entirely in the ear, filling the natural shape of the outer ear.
Many people prefer a hearing aid that is discreet but there are pros and cons to both styles aside from aesthetics. The type of hearing aid you need is based on the type of hearing loss you have. Certain hearing impairments offer more options, while others require specific kinds of hearing aids for best results.
How much will hearing aids cost me?
Hearing aids are advanced pieces of technology. Each device contains microphones, a computer chip to process sound, a speaker to amplify it and a battery — all in a compact design.
As with any technology, there’s a wide range of prices that vary based on style, manufacturer and features.
Costs can vary widely based on style, features and technology level. Most manufacturers offer comparable options, but the right fit depends on your lifestyle, listening environments and personal preferences.
There are typically four levels of hearing aid technology, largely determined by the processing power of the internal chip. This affects how well the device filters background noise, adjusts to different environments and amplifies specific pitches. Many modern devices can also connect to smartphones.
“Here at The Iowa Clinic, we use a bundled approach, meaning that all of your follow-up visits are included in what you originally pay for the hearing aids,” Rebecca says. “So there are no co-pays or office visit fees for hearing aid checks. Those are included for the life of the hearing aid.”
How do I decide which hearing aid is best for me?
You don’t have to. That’s what a comprehensive test and diagnosis can do for you.
The process starts with a hearing test, where results are plotted on an audiogram — essentially a prescription for your hearing needs. This chart shows how much hearing loss you have at different pitches, helping guide the level of amplification required.
From there, your audiologist will review your results, discuss your lifestyle and evaluate your communication needs across different environments. Ear anatomy also plays a role in determining the best fit.
All of these factors help narrow down the right technology level, style and manufacturer for you.
“We’ll look at your ear anatomy as well. All that helps us decide what type of hearing aid is appropriate,” Dr. Cano says. “We can narrow your options down to the specific technology level, style, and manufacturer based on the combination of these factors.”
How do I get fitted for a hearing aid?
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. After your evaluation, your hearing aids are ordered and typically arrive within one to two weeks.
At your fitting appointment, the devices are programmed based on your audiogram. But the process doesn’t stop there. Additional testing, such as speech mapping, is used to verify that the sound levels you’re receiving match what’s been prescribed.
Once everything is properly calibrated, you’ll take your hearing aids home.
There’s also a built-in trial period, usually around 60 days. This allows you to test the devices in real-world settings and make adjustments if needed. If they’re not the right fit, you can explore other options.
With proper care, hearing aids typically last five to seven years. Because they are digitally programmed, they can be adjusted over time as your hearing changes. Routine check-ups once or twice a year help ensure they continue to meet your needs.
It’s important to remember that hearing aids are not a cure. They help manage hearing loss but do not restore normal hearing. That’s why building an ongoing relationship with an audiologist is key — so your hearing can be monitored and supported over time.
Clearer hearing starts with a simple conversation. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms or just want peace of mind, our audiologists are here to help. Schedule your appointment today by calling 515.875.9450.
RebeccaWaymire , AuD
Rebecca Waymire, AuD, joined The Iowa Clinic Audiology & Hearing Technology department with over a decade of experience in both clinical and educational audiology. She began her career at The Iowa Clinic after graduate school and, following several years working with children with hearing loss in the metro, is thrilled to return to a collaborative, patient-centered environment. Inspired by her own experience as a hearing aid user, Rebecca pursued audiology to help others navigate the challenges and opportunities that come with hearing loss.
Outside of work, Rebecca enjoys spending time with her husband and three children, cheering on her husband’s band program, and attending soccer games. A proud Hawkeye fan, she also has a lifelong love for animals and imagines she might have pursued a career working with horses if not in healthcare.