Frequently Asked Questions

  • Coronavirus (COVID-19) Information
    • Are your clinics still open?
        Yes, all our clinics remain open. We are taking extra measures to ensure your safety as well as our clinic teams. You can find your closest clinic here

    • Are any of your staff affected?
        No, none of our staff are affected by the coronavirus (COVID-19). We are taking every measure to ensure the safety of our staff and customers. 

    • What extra measures are you taking in the clinics?

        We have always had strict infection control in our clinics – and have now extended them. Our infection control procedures include:

        • Strict hand hygiene
        • Hand sanitiser being available for customer use
        • Disinfection of medical equipment after every use
        • Cleaning / disinfection of clinical rooms after every customer
        • Multiple cleaning / disinfection of customer spaces during each day
        • Wearing appropriate protective items such as gloves, masks and glasses as appropriate.
        It is safe to attend your hearing appointments. Our clinic teams only come to work if they are healthy and confident that they have not been exposed to the virus. We have a comprehensive infection control program in all our clinics to ensure all equipment and interior surfaces are clean and safe. You can read about our infection control procedures here.

    • Is it safe for me to attend my appointments?
        Yes, it is safe to come for your hearing appointments. Our clinic teams only come to work if they are healthy and confident that they have not been exposed to the virus. We are also implementing a comprehensive infection control program in all our clinics to ensure all equipment and interior surfaces are clean and safe. You can read about our infection control procedures here.

    • What do I do if I have an appointment but I have flu-like symptoms?
        Sorry to hear that you're not well. In this case, it is best to call us on 1800 554 968 and we will reschedule your appointment.

    • What do I do if I have an appointment and recently travelled overseas?
        If you travelled overseas in the past 14 days, please call us on 1800 554 968 and we will reschedule your appointment.

  • General Information About Hearing Aids
    • How do hearing aids work?

        How do hearing aids work?

        Hearing aids are electronic devices that pick up and amplify sound. They increase the volume of sounds that you normally wouldn’t hear, so you can. 

        The hearing aids we offer at bloom hearing specialists do much more than amplify sound. The aid’s sophisticated circuitry is programmed by our hearing care professional to suit your unique hearing loss, and the high-tech features are selected based on your lifestyle. 

        Our hearing aids will not only improve your hearing, but your life.

    • How do hearing aids work in a technical sense?

        Answer

        At their most basic, hearing aids are microphones that convert sound into electrical signals.

        An amplifier increases the strength of the signal, then a receiver converts it back to sound and channels it into the ear canal through a small tube or ear mold. A battery is necessary to power the hearing aid and to enable amplification.

    • What advantages are there in having two hearing aids?

        What advantages are there in having two hearing aids?

        Answer

        The main advantages in having two hearing aids are:

        - Help with locating sounds
        - Helps hearing better in noisy situations
        - Hear speakers on both sides of you
        - Balanced hearing levels

        Some studies suggest that it may be helpful in the long term to keep an ear stimulated rather than leaving it without a hearing aid.

        Your hearing aids will be marked red and blue. Red will always be for the right ear. The blue will be for the left ear.

    • How many years should I expect my hearing aid to last?

        How many years should I expect my hearing aid to last?

        Answer

        The average hearing aid lasts between 3 – 5 years.

    • What are the different types and styles of hearing aids?

        What are the different types and styles of hearing aids?

        Answer

        Today’s hearing aids come in a wide variety of sizes and styles — from those that sit behind the ear to completely invisible hearing aids — and feature different technology levels to match your specific needs and budget.

        We at bloom hearing specialists offer all modern hearing aid styles. Book a free appointment with our Audiologist at your local bloom hearing specialists store to find out more. As well, you can contact us at 1800 554 968.

    • What is the difference between analogue and digital hearing aids?

        What is the difference between analogue and digital hearing aids?

        Answer

        Digital Hearing aids offer far better sound quality and clarity and have largely taken the place of analogue ones. They have a tiny computer inside which processes sounds and this makes it possible to customize them very precisely to suit each individuals hearing loss.

        Many digital aids can be programmed with different settings for different sound environments; for example, one program for a quiet living room and another for a noisy restaurant.

    • Will I need one or two hearing aids?

        Will I need one or two hearing aids?

        Answer

        Two-ear hearing (called "binaural") is better than one. If you have hearing loss in only one ear, you may only need to wear a hearing aid in your bad ear. However, wearing two hearing aids has been proven to improve speech understanding in noise, localization (finding the source of sounds), and overall sound quality when compared to wearing only one aid.

        Age and noise-related hearing loss tend to affect both ears, but your hearing profile for each ear is probably different. If there is a loss in both ears, you will probably benefit more with a binaural solution. Today, more than 80 percent of all hearing aid fittings are binaural, or involve both ears. People report a higher level of satisfaction than purchasers of a single hearing aid.

        You can book an appointment with our Audiologist or call us at 1800 554 968 and discuss the degree of your hearing loss with us.

         

  • Usage of Hearing Aids
    • How do I turn my hearing aid on and off?

        How do I turn my hearing aid on & off?

        Answer

        To turn the hearing aid on, close the battery door. To turn the hearing aid off, open the battery door.

         It is not harmful, but not necessary, to remove the battery completely from the hearing aid.

    • Is it OK for me to sleep in my hearing aids?

        Is it OK to sleep in my hearing aids?

        Answer

        When going to bed for the night, you should remove your hearing aids and open the battery door to help conserve battery life.

    • Can I wear my hearing aids when I take a shower, bath, or when I swim?

        Can I wear hearing aids when taking a shower, bath, or swimming?

        Answer

        Even with the water resistance capabilities of modern hearing aids, we recommend you remove your hearing aids prior to any aquatic activity.

    • What does the button do?

        What does the button on hearing aid do?

        Answer

        If there is a button on the hearing aid, it is there to select between different listening programs or environments.

    • How do I tell the right hearing aid from the left hearing aid?

        How to differentiate the right hearing aid from the left hearing aid?

        Answer

        Your hearing aids will be marked red and blue. Red will always be for the right ear. The blue will be for the left ear.

    • What is the white thing at the end of the hearing aid that goes into my ear?

        What is the white thing at the end of hearing aid that goes into my ear?

        Answer

        That is the wax filter. It is there to prevent wax from getting into the delicate components of your hearing aid.

        When this becomes clogged with wax or other debris, you will need to change this to ensure your hearing aid stays in good working order.

    • What is the hole next to the wax filter on my hearing aid?

        What is the hole next to the wax filter on hearing aid?

        Answer

        That is the vent. The vent allows for some sounds to enter your ear naturally as well as provide ventilation for your ear canal.

        Natural ventilation is important because it prevents the 'plugged up' or occluded sensation you would get if your ear was completely closed off with the hearing aid.

    • What is the clear antennae thing on my hearing aid?

        What is the clear antennae things on my hearing aid?

        Answer

        Some hearing aids have a retrieval cord to assist you with the removal of your hearing aids. When the hearing aid is in your ear, grasp the line firmly and pull to remove your hearing aid.

    • My custom hearing aid has a volume control. Which way do I turn it to change the volume?

        My custom hearing aid has a volume control. Which way should I turn it to change the volume?

        Answer

        Rotate the volume control wheel forward/towards your face (when wearing the hearing aid) to increase volume. Rotate the wheel backwards/away from your face to decrease volume.

    • What do I do when my hearing aid sounds quieter than usual / no sound?

        What should I do when my hearing aid sounds quieter than usual / no sound?

        Answer

        First check whether the volume control is working, and whether you can make it louder. To do this, take the hearing aid in your hand and clasp it. The hearing aid should now emit a whistling noise. Check the hearing tube and earpiece for earwax or moisture and clean if necessary.

        Check whether the battery is correctly inserted and fitted in correctly. If there is no improvement, replace the battery. If the problem persists, contact your local bloom hearing specialists store  by calling 1800 554 968 or booking a free appointment online.

    • What should I do if the battery discharges too quickly?

        What do I do if the battery discharges too quickly?

        Answer

        Insert a new battery and take note of exactly how long it lasts. You can always contact our local bloom hearing specialists shop for information for help and advice.

    • How long can I store my batteries? Do they discharge themselves at some point?

        How long can I store the batteries? Do they discharge themselves at some point?

        Answer

        All of today's hearing aid batteries work on the basis of zinc and oxygen. That is why you will always find a colored sticker on one side of the hearing aid battery.

        This sticker keeps the battery close to airtight. As soon as you remove this sticker, the zinc/air battery is activated by drawing in oxygen through tiny holes. Therefore, you should not remove the sticker until you need the battery.

        It is recommended that you remove the sticker from the battery, and wait about 2 minutes, before you insert the battery. If you need immediate assistance, you can call us at 1800 554 968.

    • What do I do if I hear crackling or buzzing noises?

        What should I do if I hear crackling or buzzing noises?

        Answer

        Check the hearing tube and earpiece for earwax or moisture. Check the hearing tube for damage (colour changes, hardening, or cracks) and replace it if necessary.

        If the problem persists, contact your local bloom hearing specialists store for assistance by booking a free appointment online or calling 1800 554 968.

    • What do I do if my hearing aid whistles?

        What should I do if my hearing aid whistles?

        Answer

        Check whether the earpiece is correctly and firmly seated. If this is the case but the problem persists, please consult with your local bloom hearing specialists hearing care professional to check your ear.

    • What do I do if I experience pain or inflammation in my ears?

        What should I do if I experience pain or inflammation in my ears?

        Answer

        Remove the hearing aid and contact your local bloom hearing specialists audiologist. If the problem persists, please contact your doctor.

    • Why is my hearing aid squealing?

        Why is my hearing aid squealing?

        Answer

        The squealing that you or those around you hear is called feedback. Feedback may occur because something has changed with the way the hearing aid fits in your ear. This can be because your hearing aids need to be cleaned, your ears have accumulated debris in the canal, or your ears have grown (your ears continue to grow as you age).

        If you are experiencing feedback, try cleaning your hearing aids and your ears themselves. If that does not stop the feedback, consult your local bloom hearing consultant. You can book a free appointment online with your local bloom hearing specialists store or call 1800 554 968, where we can assist you on finding the right hearing aids for you.

    • My ear gets hot and damp when I am wearing my hearing aid, what can I do about it?

        My ear gets hot & damp when I am wearing my hearing aid, what can I do about it?

        Answer

        A hearing aid stops warm and moist air from escaping from your ear canals - some ear pieces/hearing aids have a small hole or air vent running right through them to allow air to circulate.  

        Your Audiologist may be able to add this to your ear piece/hearing aid but if this is not suitable, just remove the hearing aid occasionally during the day to allow your ear to ‘breathe’.

        If the problem continues, you can contact us by booking a free appointment online with your local bloom hearing specialists store or calling 1800 554 968.

    • My hearing aid is beeping continuously, what does that mean?

        My hearing aid is beeping continuously, what does that mean?

        If your hearing aid is beeping, this can mean a variety of things. Beeps can indicate that a battery is getting low, that the hearing aid program is changing (when you push the program button) or there are changes to the volume. If you are unsure of what the different beeps mean, you can always contact us at 1800 554 968 or book a free appointment online for more information on specific beeps, or refer to the User Guide that came with your hearing aid.

  • Cleaning and Care of Hearing Aids
    • Consult with us immediately if:

        Consult with us immediately if:

        Answer

        You experience discomfort or pain despite correct placement of the earpiece.

        Earwax can no longer be removed from the earpiece opening.

        The earpiece tube is yellow and brittle.

        You can no longer adjust to the desired volume because the hearing aid starts to whistle.

    • Where should I store my hearing aids when they are not in my ears?

        Where should I store my hearing aids when they are not in my ears?

        Answer

        Store the hearing aids in the provided case or another hard-shell case that closes to ensure they are properly protected and easy to locate.

    • How do I clean my hearing aid?

        How do I clean my hearing aid?

        Answer

        A simple cloth or tissue can be used to wipe down the hearing aids. A brush can be used to help remove more stubborn or stuck debris if necessary.

        Refer to the User Guide that came with your hearing aid for more details. Gently clean your hearing aid with a soft, dry towel. Alcohol, solvents or cleaning products cause damage.

        If you need immediate assistance, you can call us at 1800 554 968.

    • How often should I clean my hearing aids?

        How often should I clean my hearing aids?

        Answer

        Cleaning your hearing aids more frequently will help keep them in the best condition possible. Generally a good practice is cleaning them once every morning before you put them on.

    • How often does the wax filter need to be changed?

        How often does the wax filter need to be changed?

        Answer

        It varies depending on how much wax your ear produces. Estimates range from once per week, to once every few months. Inspect the wax filter frequently, and change when wax or other debris becomes noticeable.

    • How do I clean the vent?

        How do I clean the vent?

        Answer

        Use a thin wire or the cleaning brush that comes with your hearing aid to clear the vent. If using a thin wire, insert it into one end, and push it through until it comes out the other end. Be sure to wipe off any debris with a cloth or tissue before removing the wire from the vent.

    • How to protect my aid from dirt?

        How to protect my aid from dirt?

        Answer

        - Always make sure that your fingers are clean and dry before touching your hearing aid. The microphone input is very small and can become blocked if handled improperly.

        - Protect your hearing aid from moisture. Remove the hearing aid from your ear before showering, bathing or swimming. Due to high moisture levels, you should not leave it in the bathroom. Occasionally clean your ears before inserting the hearing aids. Moisture and condensation can damage the electronics in your hearing aid. We recommend that you remove the battery from the hearing aid at night and to leave the battery compartment open. You can use special drying systems that are available from your localbloom hearing specialists store.

        - Place the aid out of reach of children and pets. Hearing aids that are still switched on and lying around emit high pitched sounds that can irritate dogs. This has resulted in some aids getting eaten by pet dogs.

         

    • Important for Behind-the-Ear hearing aids:

        Important for Behind-the-Ear hearing aids:

        Answer

        Always separate the earpiece from the hearing aid before cleaning it. The hearing aid should never come into contact with water! When you connect the earpiece to your hearing aid, it has to be absolutely dry.

        It is best to dry the tube with a puff of air using an air puffer (do not blow air through the tube from your mouth). You can get this inexpensive accessory from your local bloom hearing specialists store.

  • Hearing Aid Batteries
    • What are the various sizes of hearing aid batteries?

        What are the various sizes of hearing aid batteries?

        Answer

        The standard sizes of the hearing aid batteries are 10, 13, 312 and 675. They are color-coded for easy identification:
        size 10: yellow
        size 312: brown 
        size 13: orange 
        size 675: blue

    • Why do I need to open the battery door at night?

        Why do I need to open the battery door at night?

        Answer

        Opening the battery door at night ensures that the battery is not being drained, allowing for more economical use of your hearing aid. As well, it allows air into the hearing aid, which is helpful in preventing moisture build-up.

    • Why do Zinc Air hearing aid batteries have a tab?

        Why do Zinc Air hearing aid batteries have a tab?

        Answer

        Zinc Air hearing aid batteries use air as an energy source, and the tab seals the air holes on the battery. Once the tab is removed, it takes approximately two minutes before the hearing aid battery is activated/charged.  At that point, the battery compartment can be closed. If not the battery can in the worst case be damaged and will not come back to normal Voltage level needed!

        Please remember not to remove the tab before the hearing aid battery is to be used. Reattaching the tab will not prolong the running time of the battery.


    • How long is the Zinc Air battery’s shelf life?

        How long is the Zinc Air battery’s shelf life?

        Answer

        Our batteries have a minimum “shelf-life” of two years. However, this estimate cannot be guaranteed if the batteries were previously stored incorrectly.

    • How should hearing aid batteries be stored?

        How should hearing aid batteries be stored?

        Answer

        Optimal room storage temperature for storing hearing aid batteries is between 10 and 25°C. Heat may shorten the running time and a humid environment is not suitable for storage. Finally, avoid storing hearing aid batteries in the refrigerator.

        Contact with metal objects such as keys or coins can cause a hearing aid battery to short-circuit, therefore it is recommended to never carry individual batteries loose in a purse, wallet or handbag.


    • How does a hearing aid battery deliver its best performance?

        How does a hearing aid battery deliver its best performance?

        Answer

        Make sure you protect the hearing aid battery air holes from moisture. Switching off your hearing aid when not in use will also prolong the life of the battery. If the battery gets wet due to sweating or other, dry it!

    • How long is the running time of a hearing aid battery?

        How long is the running time of a hearing aid battery?

        Answer

        The running time of the hearing aid battery depends on the hours of use per day, the amplification and the type/features of the hearing aid being used.

        Streaming has a direct influence on the running time of a battery due to the high currents the HI draws in this mode. As the streaming mode is activated automatically running times of batteries vary depending on how often and how long streaming is active over the day.

    • What do I do if a battery is swallowed?

        What do I do if a battery is swallowed?

        Answer

        Hearing aid batteries, whether they are used or new, must be stored out of the reach of small children and pets to prevent them from swallowing a battery. If batteries are ingested, seek medical help immediately.

    • Do more air holes mean a longer battery life and greater power?

        Do more air holes mean a longer battery life and greater power?

        Answer

        An important factor for longer battery life and greater power is the quality and design of the electrodes. The number and size (diameter) of the air holes have as well an influence on the power of the battery.

    • Why is my hearing aid not working despite having a new battery?

        Why is my hearing aid not working despite having a new battery?

        Why is my hearing aid not working despite having a new battery?

        Some of the reasons cold be associated with:

        Not enough time for battery to be activated/charged after removal of the tab.
        Dented battery surface causes poor contact with battery terminal of the hearing aid.
        Battery is dead (even if it is brand new). This is very rare. Can as well happen when not activated correctly. Built up dirt on the battery terminal of the hearing aid causes poor contact.
        The battery does not fit into the battery door of the hearing aid (some battery doors are designed with a smaller cavity where the battery negative housing is placed).
        If the hearing aid does not work properly after replacing with a new battery (wait two minute after removing the tab before use), please take your hearing aid to your hearing care provider for further troubleshooting.


    • When might a hearing aid battery expand and leak?

        When might a hearing aid battery expand and leak?

        Answer

        If the discharged battery is left in the hearing aid after end of life, humidity can influence the battery chemistry and lead to swelling, especially in extreme weather conditions such as a tropical environment. Once a battery is at the end of its life, it should be removed from the hearing aid.

    • Why does my hearing aid battery suddenly last a shorter time?

        Why does my hearing aid battery suddenly last a shorter time?

        Answer

        In most of the cases, the reasons for a short running time are not necessarily production faults, but rather:

        Environmental influences (e.g. humidity, temperature).

        Personal hearing habits have changed (longer period of use per day, higher noise level, new features of the hearing aid are being used).

        The hearing aid was in use longer than usual (e.g. night at the theater).

        The hearing aid is new, or the type or brand of the hearing aid has changed.

        The new hearing aid has additional features that require more energy.

        Improper handling can also reduce the running time of the hearing aid battery, e.g.:

        The battery tab is removed and activation period as too short. It has to be 2 minutes or more before it is inserted into the hearing aid.

        The hearing aid is not switched off over night or after a long period of non-use.

        The battery loses capacity due to a short circuit when mishandled (e.g. through contact with metal objects).

        The battery is stored in a warm environment (e.g. in parked car in the sun).

         

    • How do I dispose a used hearing aid battery?

        How do I dispose a used hearing aid battery?

        Answer

        Zinc Air button cell batteries are classified as non-hazardous waste. However, it is recommended to bring the batteries to the common local collecting points for batteries to make sure they can be recycled.

    • Where can I buy hearing aid batteries?
    • Hearing Aid Costs
      • How much do hearing aids cost?

          How much do hearing aids cost?

          Answer

          Prices of hearing aid vary widely depending on the technology incorporated into the hearing aids, the features selected, how effective it is in various noise environments, and the services included with the purchase. The hearing aids chosen will depend on your specific form of hearing loss and other needs and preferences. We, at bloom hearing specialists offer financing plans and options to meet all budgets. You should also check to see if you qualify for free hearing aids or discounted hearing aids from your employer, union, the Veteran’s Administration, insurance provider, health maintenance organization (HMO), local charity organization, etc.

          We offer a wide range of hearing aids from the world’s leading manufacturers at prices to suit everyone's budget. You can book a free appointment online with your local bloom hearing specialists store or call 1800 554 968, where we can assist you on finding the right hearing aids for you. As well, you can try our FREE Online Hearing Test.

      • Are cheap hearing aids any good?

          Are cheap hearing aids any good?

          Answer

          Inexpensive models are simply hearing amplifiers that will make everything louder (including all the ambient noises around you). They will not, for example, separate human voices from background noises, or hear directional sounds like today’s more sophisticated hearing aids are designed to do.

          We offer a wide range of hearing aids from the world’s leading manufacturers at prices to suit everyone's budget. You can book a free appointment online with your local bloom hearing specialists store or call 1800 554 968, where we can assist you on finding the right hearing aids for you. As well, you can try our FREE Online Hearing Test.

      • Why are hearing aids that look the same different in price?

          Why are hearing aids that look the same different in price?

          Answer

          Although the hearing aid casing may look the same, it's the technology inside that really determines the price. The more sophisticated the technology, the better the hearing aid can cope with many different situations and lifestyles - and this increased sophistication means that the technology is more expensive to produce.

      • What is the warranty period for hearing aids?

          What is the warranty period for hearing aids?

          Answer

          We offer a 3-year warranty on our hearing aids.

    • Service, Repair and Customer Care of Hearing Aids
      • My hearing aid requires repair, can I send it to bloom hearing specialists?
      • How long does it take to get my hearing aid?

          How long does it take to get my hearing aid?

          Answer

          Normally non-customized hearing aids are fitted within one week and custom aids are fitted within two weeks of your hearing assessment. All our hearing aids are selected and programmed individually to meet your specific hearing requirements and this can take between one to two weeks dependent upon the type of hearing aids. 

          If you want to learn more about the hearing aids we offer you call us at 1800 554 968 or book a free appointment online with your local bloom hearing specialists store.

      • Do you offer any support once I've purchased my hearing aids from you?

          Do you offer any support once I've purchased my hearing aids from you?

          Answer

          We will look after your hearing aids for life. This unrivaled program of support includes a regular assessment and evaluation of your hearing, expert help and advice, demonstrations of new hearing aid technology to ensure you continue to get the most out of your hearing aids.  Our hearing aid guarantee is 2 years.

      • Should I consider buying hearing aids by mail order or via the internet?

          Should I consider buying hearing aids by mail order or via the internet?

          Answer

          The sale of hearing aids by mail order or the internet is not regulated so there are virtually no safeguards to ensure your best interests. Also, it is important to remember that the effectiveness of your hearing aids relies on them being properly prescribed and fitted by a fully registered and qualified hearing aid audiologist to ensure they meet your individual needs.

          Hearing aids are sophisticated medical devices that require proper fitting face-to-face with a licensed audiologist or hearing health professional. For this reason, we do not support online hearing aid sales. You can book a free appointment online with your local bloom hearing specialists store or call 1800 554 968, where we can assist you on finding the right hearing aids for you. 

    • Getting Used to Hearing Aids
      • How do I know hearing aids will work for me?

          How do I know hearing aids will work for me?

          Answer

          We will work closely with you to ensure your complete satisfaction with your new devices. We will organise follow-up visits with you to fine-tune your hearing aids, and if necessary, make any changes to the style or circuitry. We also offer 30-day money back guarantee for your peace of mind.

          You can book a free appointment online with your local bloom hearing specialists store or call 1800 554 968 to get in touch with us.

      • Is there a guarantee with hearing aids?

          Is there a guarantee with hearing aids?

          Answer

          Yes, we offer an industry-standard 30-day money-back guarantee. If you are new to hearing aids, please be aware that it takes time to adjust to your new hearing aid.

          To learn more about our latest offers, call 1800 554 968 or book a free appointment online with your local bloom hearing specialists store.

      • Is there an adjustment period to wearing hearing aids?

          Is there an adjustment period to wearing hearing aids?

          Answer

          Yes. Most people need an adjustment period of up to four months before becoming acclimated to — and receiving the full benefit of — wearing their hearing aids. However, you should expect to notice obvious benefits during this trial period. Remember, your hearing professional is there to help. Do not be afraid to call us at 1800 554 968 or visit us by booking a free appointment online with your local bloom hearing specialists store to discuss your concerns.

          1. Be Realistic
          Remember that your hearing loss has been gradual; over the years you have lost the ability to hear certain sounds in the speech spectrum and normal sounds of the environment, such as traffic and wind noise, the hum of machinery and other background noises.
          2. Practice
          When you begin to wear hearing aids, these sounds will be restored but your brain will need practice and reeducation in order to selectively focus on and filter sounds. Some sounds may even startle you at first. Know that your brain will acclimate to these sounds again over time.
          3. Be patient
          It takes time to adapt to hearing aids. Wear them as much as possible at first to become more skilled at recognizing sound direction and to learn which hearing aid settings work best for you in different situations.
          4. Rest
          The adjustment period may be tiresome. It’s a lot like retraining a muscle that hasn’t been used in a while. But the benefits will be worth it after you’ve made the adjustment.

      • My hearing aid whistles sometimes when I am putting it in my ear. Is this normal?

          My hearing aid whistles sometimes when I am putting it in my ear. Is this normal?

          Answer

          It is possible to hear a whistle when putting a hearing aid in your ear. If should not, however, whistle when it is in place in your ear. If it does, make an appointment with your local bloom hearing consultant to have your hearing aid checked. You can book a free appointment online with your local bloom hearing specialists store or call 1800 554 968.

      • Why is my hearing aid squealing?

          Why is my hearing aid squealing?

          Answer

          The squealing, you or those around you hear is called feedback. This may happen because of some changes in the the way hearing aid fits in your ear. Cleaning the hearing aid, debris in the ear canal or your ears have grown (your ears continue to grow as you age) could be some of the reasons for this problem.

          Cleaning your hearing aids and the ears themselves can help reduce the effect of Feedback. If cleaning does not help, please consult your local bloom hearing consultant. You can book a free appointment online with your local bloom hearing specialists store or call 1800 554 968, where we can assist you in finding the right hearing aids for you.

      • My ears get hot and damp when I am wearing my hearing aid, what can I do about it?

          My ear gets hot and damp when I am wearing my hearing aid, what can I do about it?

          Answer

          A hearing aid prevents moist air from escaping the ears. Almost every hearing aid has a tiny hole that allows the air to pass through it.
          Your Audiologist may be able to add this to your hearing aid but if not possible, just remove the hearing aid occasionally during the day to allow your ear to ‘breathe’.

          If the problem continues, you can contact us by booking a free appointment online with your local bloom hearing specialists store or calling 1800 554 968.

    • First Steps in the World of Hearing Aids
      • I suspect I might have a hearing loss. What should I do next?

          I suspect I might have a hearing loss. What should I do next?

          Answer

          By visiting bloom’s website, you've already taken an important first step in understanding and treating your hearing loss. 

          Next, you can try our FREE Online Hearing Test. If experiencing hearing loss problems, you should visit an audiologist or hearing health professional. You can book a free appointment online with your local bloom hearing specialists store or call 1800 554 968. They can perform a battery of painless tests to determine if you have a hearing loss. If appropriate, any intervention or treatment options can be discussed during your visit, and these experts can answer any other questions you may have. Depending on the test results, they may also recommend that you see your physician or an ear, nose, and throat specialist (otolaryngologist) prior to getting fitted with hearing aids. If you suspect your child has hearing loss, it’s best to talk with your paediatrician first, who can then refer you to a paediatric audiologist for testing and treatment if necessary.

           

      • How do I know if I have a hearing problem?

          How do I know if I have a hearing problem?

          Answer

          Hearing problems rarely cause discomfort or pain, and because the hearing loss process is gradual, it’s common to adapt to someone’s hearing loss without realizing it. If you think you or a loved one is experiencing hearing loss, here are the top warning signs of hearing loss:

          People seem to mumble all the time

          You hear, but have trouble understanding

          You often ask people to repeat themselves

          Telephone conversations are difficult

          You can’t hear household sounds, like a faucet dripping or a clock ticking

          It’s hard to hear without seeing the speaker’s face

          You are told you speak too loudly

          People say your television or radio volume is set too high

          You have ringing or buzzing in your ears

          Conversations are difficult in a large group

          You have trouble following conversations with more than two people

          You struggle to hear in crowded places, like restaurants and malls

          You have a hard time hearing women or children

          You can try our FREE Online Hearing Test. You can book a free appointment online with your local bloom hearing specialists store or call 1800 554 968, where we can assist you on finding the right hearing aids for you.  

      • If I had hearing loss, wouldn’t my doctor have told me?

          If I had hearing loss, wouldn’t my doctor have told me?

          Answer

          Only 13 percent of physicians routinely screen for hearing loss. Since most people with hearing impairments hear just fine in quiet environments (like your doctor's office), it can be very difficult for your physician to recognize this problem. Only a trained hearing professional can determine the severity of your hearing problem, whether or not you could benefit from a hearing aid, and which type would be best for you.

      • Can hearing aids enhance my quality of life?

          Can hearing aids enhance my quality of life?

          Answer

          Hearing aids can improve your quality of life by boosting your self-confidence and reducing your stress level. It’s hard to be confident and relaxed when you are unsure of your hearing. 

          After using a hearing aid, 39% of the users reports having improved their ability to communicate effectively. 32% stated they improvement in their social life today and 35% feels more confident about themselves. 

          They also can improve:
          Personal relationships. After all, successful relationships depend on successful communication.
          Job performance. Hearing aids eliminate the need to constantly ask “What?” or “Can your repeat that?” and keep you on top of your game.
          Safety. You don’t want to miss hearing a smoke alarm, a window breaking, a dog barking at a stranger, an oncoming car when you’re walking, or a siren when you’re driving.


      • Will hearing aids restore my hearing?

          Will hearing aids restore my hearing?

          Answer

          No hearing aid can restore your hearing 100 percent. However, our hearing aids will let you hear soft sounds that you couldn’t hear before. Your hearing aids will also help you better understand speech, especially in noisy environments and prevent loud sounds from becoming uncomfortably loud for you. 

          Although it is not possible to restore your natural hearing, hearing aids allow you to hear better.


      • Will I be able to hear in noisy places?

          Will I be able to hear in noisy places?

          Answer

          While no hearing aid can filter out all background noise, our advanced hearing aids are designed to reduce some types of background noise so that you can enjoy conversation and improve communication in places like restaurants, business meetings and social gatherings.

      • I think a relative/friend of mine has a hearing loss. What should I do?
      • How often does hearing loss occur?

          How often does hearing loss occur?

          Answer

          One out of five people between the ages of 45-74 have a hearing loss. However, hearing loss is prevalent at all ages. The brain is an important part of our hearing, and needs to interpret signals to "make meaning of the sound", therefore it is important the brain is fed with signals to keep in good shape.

      • How can I maintain a good hearing?

          How can I maintain a good hearing?

          How can I maintain a good hearing?

          You need to keep exercising your hearing to maintain good hearing. By using hearing aids you can actually minimize the level of hearing loss in comparison to not taking action. So despite of common believe, the use of hearing aids does help you exercise your hearing.  

          If you are worried that you might have a hearing problem, can try our FREE Online Hearing Test. You can book a free appointment online with your local bloom hearing specialists store or call 1800 554 968, where we can assist you on finding the right hearing aids for you. 
           

    • Tinnitus
      • What is tinnitus?

          What is tinnitus?

          Answer

          Tinnitus is often described as ringing in the ears, buzzing or humming noises but it can be experienced differently from person to person. It can be very difficult to concentrate and can keep you from sleeping well at night leaving you exhausted during the day. Tinnitus is not a disease, but a non-specific symptom that can be brought on by a mental or physical ‘change’, not necessarily related to hearing in the ear or the auditory pathway.

      • How common is it to have tinnitus?

          How common is it to have tinnitus?

          Answer

          Around 250 million people worldwide suffer from tinnitus. And many people with hearing loss experience tinnitus at some stage.

          There are certainly factors which can exacerbate tinnitus such as: stress, anxiety, depression, tiredness, some medications and there is some weaker evidence that some aspects of a person’s diet can also have an impact.

          As tinnitus itself can lead to anxiety, stress and sleep deprivation, this can create the feeling of being trapped in a vicious cycle.

      • What causes tinnitus?
        • Answer

          Tinnitus can be caused by a variety of factors, some of them not under your control, such as simply aging. Most often, tinnitus is caused by repeated exposure to excessive loud noise. 

          The good news is, tinnitus is not a sign of a s... Read more

        • How can I treat tinnitus?

            How can I treat tinnitus?

            Answer

            At bloom, we are expert hearing specialists with a unique methodology. Widex Zen Therapy is a proven method that combines counselling, sound stimulation, stress reduction and amplification.

            If you want to know more about our offers, you can book a free appointment online with your local bloom hearing specialists store or call 1800 554 968, where we can assist you on finding the right hearing aids for you.  

        • Will tinnitus relief effect my daily life?

            Will tinnitus relief effect my daily life?

            Answer

            It will improve your quality of life and help you relax from the tinnitus. You will be able to sleep better, have conversations, read and watch TV with less effort releasing the stress that tinnitus can cause.

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