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Through our audiology and hearing services, we are able to deliver a new level of exceptional care for patients of all ages who suffer hearing loss, tinnitus, and other balance disorders.
For more information about audiology and hearing services at UPMC in north central Pa., call 570-326-8360.
We will be asking you questions that pertain to your specific hearing needs and concerns. Questions will be asked about pain, pressure, ringing in the ears, balance issues and noise exposure.
The thorough assessment of your hearing will take place in a sound-controlled setting, or a sound booth. While wearing a headset that covers each ear, you will listen to and repeat familiar two syllable-words, and later on, simple single words, presented at a comfortable listening level.
Testing will also be completed while you listen to quiet sounds at a variety of different pitches. The test results will be presented on a graph, or audiogram, that shows the specific pitches (frequencies) and loudness (intensity) levels that an individual can hear from each ear.
This is done by inserting a small tip into your ear canal. You will hear a humming noise and feel slight pressure for a few seconds. Directly after, you may also hear a few tones with changing volumes. This test will assess how the ear drum, ear bones, and one middle ear muscle are moving. The final testing will be presented in a graphic form.
Tinnitus refers to "ringing in the ears" when no other sound is present. Tinnitus can sound like hissing, roaring, pulsing, whooshing, chirping, whistling or clicking. Tinnitus can occur in one ear or both ears. Call our office right away if you are experiencing these symptoms. We will work with you to get you the most appropriate treatment available.
During a hearing aid evaluation, or HAE, you will be asked questions about your communication lifestyles, your listening needs and your hearing concerns. These questions and your answers will help to make a decision about the quality of hearing aid(s) that best suits you and your hearing loss. The different styles of hearing aids will also be reviewed and you may select one if you choose to try hearing aids for a 30-day trial period.
Our offices hold a license from the Department of Health and follow all of the PA state requirements. Technology has advanced rapidly in the area of hearing aids. There are many different types of systems available, including digital sound processing, directional microphones for noise controls, and multiple memory devices. These will be explained more during your HAE.
Audiology offers free adjustments while your hearing aid system is in warranty.
Every hearing aid sold will come with a repair warranty from the manufacturer. The warranty length will depend on the quality of hearing aid(s) purchased. Most manufacturers will also offer more coverage if there is a concern or individual need.
Every hearing aid sold will come with a loss and damage warranty from the manufacturer. The warranty length will depend on the quality of hearing aid(s) purchased. The manufacturer's warranty varies in price, but most will need a written justification for the loss and damage. Some manufacturers require a notary, which can be taken care of in our office. Most manufacturers will also offer more coverage if there is a concern or individual need.
Hearing aids need periodic cleaning and checks. Hearing aid checks vary from individual to individual based on wear, but should always be checked annually, at a minimum. There are some models that should be checked at three month intervals, while others may need to be checked twice a year. Ear wax and/or moisture is typically the reason for these check-ups. Occasionally, your hearing may also need to be checked. If you are noticing a decrease or change in your hearing, a modification to your hearing aid(s) will be completed, as needed.
Sometimes, listening situations can become difficult — either with or without hearing aids. There are devices that can be used individually, like an amplified telephone, a device to hear the TV better, a personal listening system, door signalers, alarm clocks and bed shakers. There are also devices that can be connected to your present hearing aid system for better TV usage, along with phone, computer, music and an individual microphone usage for hearing better in noisy environments.
Batteries are sold at UPMC Audiology, under our tax-exempt status. Batteries (sizes 10, 312, 13, and 675) are sold for either $1 per cell, or $35 for a box of 40 cells. All batteries are made of premium quality, mercury-free, zinc air, and ordered frequently for freshness.
An impression is taken of the area with a silicone material, and then the plug is made for its specific need.
Custom swim plugs come in handy when attempting to keep water out of the ear canal while swimming or bathing. An impression is made of your ear, and then custom earplugs are made from materials that float on the water surface.
A series of tests used to determine the causes of a patient's dizziness or balance disorders.
At UPMC, our audiologists are passionate about helping you achieve optimal hearing health through our services for audiology in Williamsport.
UPMC John M. Wenner Building
1705 Warren Ave.
Williamsport, PA 17701
570-320-7474
The UPMC John M. Wenner Building is located at UPMC Williamsport Divine Providence Campus.
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