Know what to look for before you buy

A deliberately small, source-backed library. Every retained guide names its sources, access date and clinical-review status. Information only, not medical advice.

All topics Choosing & Buying Styles & Technology Understanding Hearing Loss For Family & Friends

Guide Understanding Hearing Loss How to Read an Audiogram An audiogram plots pitch from low to high across the horizontal axis and the quietest level heard down the vertical axis; marks usually separate the two ears. Lower marks mean a louder sound was needed. Ask the audiologist to explain air, bone, speech, reliability, and referral findings. 5 min read · updated Aug 2026 Ask the Sherpa
Guide Understanding Hearing Loss How to Prevent Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Reduce noise at the source first, increase your distance, shorten the time exposed, and use correctly fitted hearing protection when the sound cannot be controlled. Repeated workplace exposure at 85 dBA or higher is hazardous under NIOSH guidance. Ringing or muffled hearing after noise is a warning. 5 min read · updated Aug 2026 Ask the Sherpa
Guide Choosing & Buying PSAP vs OTC Hearing Aid: What Is the Difference? A personal sound amplification product, or PSAP, is a consumer electronic for people with normal hearing who want selected sounds louder. A genuine US OTC hearing aid is an FDA-regulated medical device for adults with perceived mild-to-moderate hearing loss. Marketing appearance alone does not establish the category. 4 min read · updated Aug 2026 Ask the Sherpa
Guide Choosing & Buying OTC vs Prescription Hearing Aids In the US, OTC hearing aids are FDA-regulated devices for adults 18 or older with perceived mild-to-moderate hearing loss and require no prescription or professional fitting. Prescription aids are obtained through licensed hearing-care channels, can serve broader ages and hearing levels, and include professional evaluation and fitting. 5 min read · updated Aug 2026 Ask the Sherpa
Tip Choosing & Buying 12 Questions to Ask Before Buying a Hearing Aid Ask who the device is intended for, how your hearing will be assessed, how fitting and benefit are verified, what support is included, the total price, return deadline and fees, warranty and repair process, replacement-part costs, software requirements, data use, and what happens if it does not help. 5 min read · updated Aug 2026 Ask the Sherpa