Owner: Mark Sturtevant

Q. What is hearing loss?
A: Hearing loss is a loss of the loudness and/or clarity of sounds. Most people have had temporary hearing loss at least once in their lives. Colds and exposure to loud noise for a short time may cause temporary hearing loss. A change in air pressure while diving or flying can cause a 'blocked' feeling in your ears. However, in these cases, your hearing should return to normal within a couple of days at most. If it doesn't, see a specialist.

Q: Why am I losing my hearing?
A: Hearing loss happens for many reasons. One reason for hearing loss is presbycusis, which is associated with aging, worsens over time and seems to be inherited. Noise-induced hearing loss or exposure to too much noise is another factor. This type of hearing problem is common for construction workers, farmers, musicians and people in the armed forces because of the frequency and volume of noise. Sometimes loud noise can cause a ringing, hissing, or roaring sound in ears, called tinnitus (tin-NY-tus).

Other causes of hearing loss are viral or bacterial infections, heart conditions or stroke, head injuries, tumors, and certain medicines such as radiation and chemotherapy.

Q: My hearing loss is manageable. Why should I purchase hearing devices if I only have some hearing loss? 
A: We know from extensive research that when the brain is deprived of a sensory experience—like hearing—its ability to hear and interpret speech will deteriorate. As time goes on, the brain can lose its ability to understand and process speech, resulting in greater sensory deprivation.

Q: My friends bought hearing aids from the newspaper for only $29. Why are yours more expensive?
A: The devices your friend purchased are not considered hearing devices. They are amplifiers. A hearing aid is a medical device custom fit and custom manufactured to meet the hearing needs for a specific individual, adding to its production cost and its value.

Q: What if I purchase a hearing instrument that I don't like?
A: We have a 30-day trial period, allowing you to test your hearing aid. If there are any concerns about your device, the staff at Joyful Sound Hearing will work closely with you to improve its fit, performance, or use. Our team's goal is to ensure that patients enjoy a positive hearing experience.