In the wake of the creation of a new FDA-cleared OTC (over-the-counter) hearing aid category, you may be wondering about hearing aids and other types of hearing devices. Read on to learn more about the benefits of hearing devices as well as the differences between personal sound amplification products, OTC hearing aids and prescription hearing aids. Also discover who is a good candidate for OTC hearing aids.
Personal Sound Amplification Products (PSAP)
The first, most basic level of hearing device is a personal sound amplification product which does exactly what its name implies: It helps amplify certain sounds to make life more enjoyable. It typically has a few volume settings.
- Intended for people of any age with normal hearing who would like to amplify sounds
in certain environments - Not intended to treat or manage hearing loss
- Not regulated by the FDA for safety or effectiveness
- Continued use of a PSAP in your ear at a loud environment results in a risk of damaging hearing over time
- No medical exam or prescription required
- Available over-the-counter
Shop and learn about Medline Hearing Amplifiers here.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Hearing Aids
A step above a personal sound amplification product, an OTC hearing aid is designed for people with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. It has adjustable volume control, noise reduction and typically comes with multiple environmental settings for optimal sound. A range of styles are available and some even have Bluetooth capability so you can stream calls and music as well.
- Intended for adults aged 18 years or older experiencing perceived mild to moderate hearing loss
- Medical device regulated by the FDA
- No medical exam, prescription or fitting with an audiologist required
- Available over-the-counter
- Sold in retail stores and through online retailers like Medline at Home
Shop all Medline OTC Hearing Aids including In-The-Ear (ITE), Behind-The-Ear (BTE), and Bluetooth enhanced styles here.
Prescription Hearing Aids
Prescription hearing aids are what many people consider “traditional” hearing aids. They’re the most powerful hearing device available for those with hearing loss and they’re highly customizable. An array of styles are available and an audiologist or licensed hearing professional can help you find the perfect style for your individual needs.
- Intended for people of any age with any degree of hearing loss, including severe to profound
- Medical device regulated by the FDA
- A medical exam, prescription and fitting with an audiologist are required
- Sold by audiologists; ear, nose, and throat doctors; or sellers licensed to dispense hearing aids, such as instrument specialists
Are You a Good Candidate for Over-the-Counter (OTC) Hearing Aids?
Take the Medline at Home Online Hearing Test here*
* As one of many available online tests for the self-assessment of hearing loss, this third-party automated hearing screening test is available for Customer's convenience. It is important to remember that an online hearing test can only assess your general level of hearing, while an in-person hearing test conducted by a hearing professional can diagnose possible causes.
The SHOEBOX Online automated screening test for self-assessment of hearing loss has been tested to have approximately 90% screening accuracy. Sometimes hearing loss is due to the build-up of ear wax which, if removed, could result in a more positive test result. A health professional can determine if there is a build-up of ear wax, or other factors, that may be causing the hearing loss.
It’s important to note that ideal candidates for OTC hearing aids are adults whose hearing loss is perceived as symmetric and occurred gradually. If a difference in hearing between ears is noted and/or your hearing loss occurred suddenly within the past 90 days, you should seek evaluation from an otolaryngologist (ENT physician).
Important: Talk to Your Doctor First If…
Finally, you should seek a medical evaluation prior to wearing any hearing devices if you answer “YES” to any of the following:
- Hearing loss occurred suddenly
- Hearing is asymmetric (better in one ear than the other)
- Your ears hurt or feel pressured
- You have drainage or recurrent ear infections
- You have ringing, hissing, or buzzing in only one ear