If you're having trouble hearing, you may think that you need hearing aids. That might be the case. But, before you go out and buy your new hearing aids, there are a few steps you need to take first. If you suspect hearing loss, follow the steps described below. 

Have Your Ears Cleaned

If you've noticed that your hearing isn't as fine-tuned as used to be, schedule an appointment with your doctor. You may have a buildup of wax inside your ears, especially if you've never had your ears cleaned before. The waxy buildup inside your ears may seem like a minor inconvenience, but it can actually interfere with your ability to hear. Unfortunately, you can't remove ear wax on your own. It's especially important that you not try to remove ear wax with a cotton swab. That can actually cause serious injury to your ears.

Get Your Hearing Tested

If you continue to experience hearing loss after having your ears cleaned, it's time to have your hearing tested. Some hearing deficiencies can be fixed with a thorough ear cleaning. But that's not the case with all hearing loss. To identify non-wax-related hearing loss, you need a hearing test. First, have your family doctor perform a baseline hearing test. This will identify the hearing loss. Once your family doctor has identified hearing loss, you'll need to schedule an appointment with an audiologist. The audiologist will determine the extent of your hearing loss and develop a treatment plan. 

Choose the Right Hearing Aid

If your hearing loss requires treatment, you'll need to choose the right hearing aids. There are different types of hearing aids available for you to choose from. Some of the hearing aid options include in-the-canal, in-the-ear, behind-the-ear, and open fit. Your audiologist will identify the one that's best for your particular hearing loss. It might take some time to choose the right type of hearing aid for your needs. Because of that, you can request a trial run. This process allows you to test a variety of hearing aids until you find the one that's right for you. 

Ask About Additional Services

If it's determined that you need hearing aids, you'll want to ask about additional services. There are optional features that can make life easier once you have your hearing aids. Some of those features include noise reduction, directional microphones, and remote controls. Remote controls give you the hands-free ability to adjust your hearing aids. This feature is especially beneficial when you have issues with finger dexterity.