Over the Counter Hearing Aides (OTC)

In recent months there has been a lot of publicity about Over The Counter Hearing aids (OTC) due to the FDA now allowing some hearing aids for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss to purchase devices in retail outlets and pharmacies.  These hearing aids are classified separately from prescription aids, with each having its own set of regulations for safety and efficacy.

Similar to the “Cheater eyeglasses” which work for some but not all people, Over The Counter Hearing Aids will meet some individuals needs but not all.

Who are OTC Hearing Aids for you might ask?  People who have mild difficulties hearing in the presence of noise or speech at a distance.  Individuals who struggle in both quiet and noisy environments or with clarity of speech will not be good candidates for OTC hearing aids.  These individuals most likely have a more significant hearing loss and should be seen by an audiologist to rule out other possible pathologies and would require prescription hearing aids.  

The FDA recommends a hearing exam by a licensed medical professional for people with the following symptoms:

• Ringing or buzzing in the ears, also known as Tinnitus
• Vertigo or dizziness
• Clogged or plugged feeling in the ear
• Pain or discharge in the ear
• Sudden or fluctuating hearing loss (requires immediate intervention)
• Unequal hearing levels in each ear.

Dr. Patrick Bergmann Au.D an Audiologist at Capital Region Hearing recommends all people begin their path to amplification or hearing aids with a diagnostic baseline test from an audiologist.  This will ensure an accurate hearing test with no possible false readings from environmental room noise or blockages in the ear.  An additional benefit is that these tests can be used for fitting both OTC or prescription hearing aids.

Over the Counter Hearing aids can be an excellent solution for some people with less severe hearing loss.  However, a well-educated consumer should know the pros and cons to make an informed decision.

Pros – OTC hearing aids will be easily accessible with possible lower cost to the consumer. Some devices will have Bluetooth and smart phone capabilities.

Cons – OTC Hearing aids are not designed for more significant losses or underlying medical conditions. Possible over amplification may cause additional hearing loss.  In addition, no in-person services for programming, care, maintenance or trouble shooting are available.  Shorter warranties are typical for OTC hearing aids than prescription hearing aids.

For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Bergmann Au.D contact Capital Region Hearing located in Albany, NY (518-599-0068) or Wynantskill, NY (518-326-1742).  Visit their website at www.CapitalRegionHearing.com