Frequently Asked Questions About Hearing Health & Hearing Aids
How often should you get a hearing test?
Most adults should have a hearing test every 1–2 years, or sooner if you notice hearing changes, ringing in the ears, or trouble understanding speech. People with known hearing loss, tinnitus, or noise exposure may need testing more frequently.
What frequencies are tested in a hearing test?
A standard hearing test measures frequencies from 250 Hz to 8,000 Hz, which covers most speech sounds and everyday listening environments.
What do hearing test decibels (dB) mean?
Decibels show how loud a sound must be for you to hear it.
- 0–25 dB: Normal hearing
- 26–40 dB: Mild hearing loss
- 41–55 dB: Moderate hearing loss
- 56–70 dB: Moderately severe hearing loss
- 71+ dB: Severe hearing loss
What is an audiogram?
- Pitch (frequency) on the horizontal axis
- Loudness (decibels) on the vertical axis
How do you read a hearing test or audiogram?
- Symbols on the chart represent each ear
- Lower marks indicate better hearing
- Higher marks indicate hearing loss
Your audiologist explains how the results affect speech understanding and daily communication.
What is the normal hearing range?
Normal hearing falls between 0–25 decibels across tested frequencies. Difficulty hearing speech often begins above this range.
What causes tinnitus (ringing in the ears)?
Common causes include:
- Hearing loss
- Noise exposure
- Head injury or concussion
- Earwax buildup
- Certain medications
- Dehydration or circulation issues
Is there a cure for tinnitus?
There is no universal cure, but tinnitus can often be successfully managed with treatment options like sound therapy, hearing aids, tinnitus masking, and counseling.
What treatments are available for tinnitus?
Tinnitus treatment may include:
- Hearing aids with tinnitus masking
- Sound therapy
- Lifestyle and dietary guidance
- Managing underlying hearing loss
A personalized evaluation determines the best approach.
Does drinking water help tinnitus?
Staying hydrated can help reduce tinnitus symptoms for some people, especially if dehydration is contributing to ear or circulation issues.
Can head injuries cause ringing in the ears?
Yes. Tinnitus is common after head injuries or concussions and should be evaluated if symptoms persist.
What are the advantages of hearing aids?
Hearing aids can:
- Improve speech understanding
- Reduce listening fatigue
- Help manage tinnitus
- Improve social connection and quality of life
What are the disadvantages or limitations of hearing aids?
Possible limitations include:
- Adjustment period
- Background noise challenges
- Regular maintenance needs
Modern technology greatly reduces these concerns.
What hearing aid styles are available?
Common styles include:
- Behind-the-ear (BTE)
- Receiver-in-canal (RIC)
- In-the-ear (ITE)
- Completely-in-canal (CIC)
Your audiologist recommends the best option for your hearing and lifestyle.
Can hearing aids be repaired?
Yes. Many issues can be repaired in-office, including sound problems, fit issues, and component replacement.
What brands of hearing aids are available?
Audiology clinics work with leading hearing aid manufacturers, offering multiple technology levels and styles.
What is an audiologist?
An audiologist is a licensed healthcare professional who diagnoses and treats hearing loss, tinnitus, and balance disorders.
When should I see an audiologist?
You should schedule an evaluation if you:
- Struggle to hear conversations
- Experience ringing in your ears
- Turn up volume frequently
- Feel off-balance or dizzy
Do you offer hearing tests and hearing aids in Corpus Christi?
Yes. Advanced Hearing Aid & Diagnostics, LLC provides comprehensive hearing tests, tinnitus care, hearing aids, repairs, and ongoing support for patients in Corpus Christi and surrounding areas.