The Pros and Cons of Over-the-counter vs. Prescription Hearing Aids

Hearing loss affects nearly 15% of adults across the U.S. Nowadays, there are many options to help those with hearing loss live a fulfilling life. Hearing aids are the most common solution, but there are various options here. If you have recently visited an audiologist and discovered you are experiencing hearing loss, you might be unsure how to choose between over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids and prescription, check out the pros and cons of each.

What are Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids?

Over-the-counter hearing aids are designed for individuals who have self-perceived mild-to-moderate hearing loss. OTC options are available without the need for a professional consultation or fitting by an audiologist. While they may offer cost-effective solutions, their customization and fine-tuning capabilities can be limited compared to prescription-based hearing aids.

Easily Accessible

OTC hearing aids are easily accessible compared to prescription hearing aids, because you do not have to see an audiologist for a fitting. They can be easily obtained from various retail outlets, pharmacies and online stores without the need for a prescription from an audiologist.

No Need to Visit an Audiologist

When opting for over-the-counter hearing aids, there’s no requirement to visit an audiologist. These devices are readily available for direct purchase by wearers who are experiencing perceived mild-to-moderate hearing loss. OTC hearing aids will not be custom fit to your specific needs, unlike prescription hearing aids, which cover a range of hearing severities.

Lacking Features

OTC hearing aids, while accessible and immediate solutions for self-perceived mild-to-moderate hearing loss, might lack some of the advanced features found in contemporary hearing aid models. Unlike the technology and customizable options available in modern hearing aids prescribed by audiologists, OTC devices generally offer a simpler design and fewer sophisticated features. These over-the-counter options might not include features like Bluetooth connectivity, noise cancellation or personalized programming, limiting their functionalities compared to prescription-based hearing aids. While suitable for basic amplification needs, they may not provide the same level of tailored support and enhanced capabilities available in professional-grade hearing aids.

Not Professionally Fitted

OTC hearing aids lack the advantage of a professional fitting by audiologists. These OTC devices are not individually customized to an individual’s specific hearing needs or ear anatomy. Without the tailored adjustments and personalized fittings provided by professionals, OTC hearing aids might not offer optimal comfort, suitability or precise amplification tailored to a individuals unique hearing profile.

What Are Prescription Hearing Aids?

Prescription hearing aids are devices tailored to address specific hearing needs, typically recommended and customized by audiologists. These devices are individually calibrated based on a comprehensive hearing assessment, considering the unique nature of an individual’s hearing loss and preferences. Prescription hearing aids come in various styles and designs, each serving different degrees of hearing loss. They aim to amplify sound effectively and improve overall hearing capability, providing personalized solutions to accommodate diverse hearing challenges.

Several Styles of Hearing Aids

There are multiple styles of prescription hearing aids that are designed to treat a various severities of hearing loss. These hearing aids are meant to match different needs and preferences you may have with your hearing loss. Your audiologist may recommend behind-the-ear (BTE), in-the-ear (ITE) or in-the-canal (ITC) hearing aids. Depending on the severity of your hearing loss, whether its mild or profound, your audiologist can prescribe the right hearing aid for you.

Tailored to Your Needs

Hearing aids are customized devices designed just for you. They’re crafted by experts who consider the type of hearing loss you are experiencing, the severity and your lifestyle. These devices are made to fit your ears and help you hear better in different environments like crowded rooms or quiet spaces. Audiologists will adjust your hearing aids so they’re just right for you. An audiologist will also schedule follow-up appointments to fine-tune the device if necessary and measure your hearing.

Tests Identify the Cause of Your Hearing Loss

Hearing tests can help to identify the type of hearing loss you are experiencing and why. They will highlight whether it is because of tinnitus, old age, illness or simple blockages in your ear canal to ensure the right treatment. A hearing test will measure the frequencies and decibels you cannot hear.

Over-the-Counter vs. Prescription Hearing Aids

Although over-the-counter hearing aids offer convenience, especially for those who only experience self-perceived mild hearing loss, they do not bring the same wealth of features and benefits as prescription hearing aids.

If you feel you need hearing aids, contact Rocky Mountain Hearing & Balance to learn more about the styles and the severity of you hearing loss. Call us today at (801) 685-3456. Our expert team can offer you advice about getting tested for hearing aids and follow through with outlining your prescription to ensure we meet all your hearing needs.