Hearing aids are life-changing.

But many people struggle with using a hearing aid (or two hearing aids at once) and this has caused hearing aids to get a bad reputation. But the real reason behind why people struggle may have a simple solution that would ultimately completely change their experience.

What Is A Real Ear Measurement?

Real ear measurements (or probe microphone measurements) is the gold standard used to determine whether a hearing aid user is receiving the precise level of amplification needed at every frequency. This enables them to achieve the best hearing improvement possible. Since hearing loss varies person to person and severity, 100% improvement is not always possible. But with real ear measurement, it can maximize the benefit to get as close to 100% as possible.

This video can help explain Real Ear Measurement

How Does It Work?

First, the ear canal will be examined with the use of an otoscope to ensure no wax or other debris will interfere with the positioning of the probe tube. Then, the probe tube is placed with the tip close to the tympanic membrane. The hearing aid will be put in place and a loudspeaker situated near the patient’s head will emit sound. The process will simultaneously measure the output in the ear canal to determine how much amplification the hearing aid is providing. The information gathered in this process will help your audiologist determine the best solution for you.

Here is a helpful video that discusses the difference between real ear measurement and auto-programming:

Studies have shown that hearing aid fittings using real-ear measurements resulted in superior outcomes and improved aided benefit both in quiet and in noise – but not all audiologists offer real ear measurement. Get the best experience with your hearing aid(s) and call us today!