Hearing Center - Services

Hearing Evaluations for All Ages

By combining the latest technology and techniques, we are able to assess the hearing of infants, children and adults. Our diagnostic evaluations include a complete history, impedance measures and several listening tasks. A case history will help us identify genetic or environmental factors that may be affecting your hearing. A tympanogram will provide information regarding the function of the middle ear and ear drum (tympanic membrane) and acoustic reflex testing evaluates the presence or absence of a predictable muscle contradiction within the ear. An audiogram determines the softest level you can hear pure tones and speech of each ear. Lastly, word recognition testing determines your ability to understand novel words in quiet environments.

Advanced Diagnostic Evaluations

To assist in the differential diagnosis of hearing loss, Distortion Product Oto-Acoustic Emission (DPOAE) testing or an Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) test may be conducted. DPOAEs provide information regarding the function of the inner ear, specifically the outer hair cells of the cochlea (the end organ of hearing). The ABR test aids in determining the integrity of the auditory nerve.

Balance Assessments

Problems with balance may occur when there is a disruption in the vestibular or central nervous systems. Symptoms of a balance disorder may include dizziness, spinning (vertigo), imbalance (disequilibrium), nausea, or light headedness. Videonystagmography (VNG) is the test used to objectively assess the vestibular and related systems.

Assistive Technology

The technology in hearing instruments and assistive listening devices is constantly evolving and the demands on one's hearing are unique to each individual. That is why our audiologists will assist you in determining which hearing aid or assistive device would be beneficial in meeting your needs. By working with several of the industry's leading hearing aid manufacturers, we are able to offer our patients a comprehensive selection of state of the art technologies. Please visit our Products page for specific information on the devices available at The Hearing Center.

Hearing Aid Fitting

Majority of the hearing aids dispensed at The Hearing Center are 100% digital. This allows the hearing aid to be fit to your specific needs. During your fitting appointment, our audiologists will fine tune the hearing aid to your hearing loss and listening needs. They will also counsel you on proper use and care of the hearing instrument. They will also provide you with a box of 48 Rayovac ProLine Advanced hearing aid batteries, a battery tester, a Super Dri-Aid kit hearing aid dehumidifier, and an ear mold blower (for behind-the-ear hearing aid users) as part of our hearing care package. All new fittings are accompanied with a complimentary manufacturer repair warranty, accidental loss and destruction insurance, professional counseling, preventative maintenance, physical modifications, and acoustic adjustments during the manufacturer warranty period.

Hearing Aid Trial Periods and Follow-up Care

It should also be noted that all hearing aids dispensed in the state of Illinois are subject to a thirty (30) business day trial period. During that period, it is important for you to make the commitment to wearing your new hearing aids every day. It may take awhile for you to adjust to listening with hearing aids. We recommend you make notes of how well you are hearing in your everyday surroundings during this trial period. Based on your notes, we may make additional adjustments to your hearing aids or offer tips for communicating while wearing hearing aids during your follow-up appointments.

Hearing Aid Maintenance and Repairs

It is important to have your hearing aid cleaned and checked periodically to limit repair issues. However, repairs are needed from time to time. We are able to conduct general maintenance, in-house repairs, and coordinate manufacturer repairs for all types of hearing aids, even if you did not purchase your hearing aid at the Hearing Center.

Battery Club

We are pleased to offer our patients a membership in our battery club. When you join the battery club, you will receive a fresh box of batteries delivered to directly your home. We recommend and ship Rayovac ProLine Advanced hearing aid batteries as the most reliable power source for your hearing aids.

Custom Ear Molds

A variety of custom ear molds are available at The Hearing Center. Please visit our Products page for specific information.