1. How long does a hearing test take?

A standard diagnostic hearing test at Brighter Ears takes 45–60 minutes.It includes ear inspection, full audiology testing and a personalised results explanation.

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A full appointment includes otoscopy, tympanometry, pure-tone audiometry and speech testing. You’ll receive a clear understanding of your hearing health, what it means for daily life and whether treatment is needed. Appointments are available across Sumner, Jindalee, Mount Ommaney, Springfield, Ipswich, Inala, Rocklea, Redbank, Browns Plains, Springwood and Logan.

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2. Do pensioners get free hearing aids?

Eligible pensioners may receive fully-subsidised hearing aids through the Hearing Services Program.
We check eligibility and guide you through the application process.

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Brighter Ears offers a wide range of subsidised modern hearing aids, including discreet CIC styles, rechargeable RICs and traditional BTE models. We help pensioners in Sumner, Jindalee, Springfield, Ipswich, Inala, Redbank, Rocklea, Logan and surrounding suburbs access quality devices without out-of-pocket costs.

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3. What is a Deep Neural Network (DNN) in hearing aids?

A DNN is an AI system inside advanced hearing aids that separates speech from noise. It learns from real-world listening environments to enhance clarity.

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Brands like Starkey, Resound and Widex use DNN technology to improve hearing in cafés, restaurants, shopping centres and social gatherings. The system mimics how the human brain processes sound, helping correct what years of untreated hearing loss have disrupted.

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4. Are hearing tests free for pensioners?

Yes, pensioners eligible for the Hearing Services Program receive fully subsidised hearing tests.
We complete the eligibility check for you.

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Brighter Ears provides comprehensive hearing assessments at no cost for eligible pensioners across Brisbane’s suburbs, including Sumner, Jindalee, Mount Ommaney, Springfield, Ipswich, Inala, Rocklea, Logan and Springwood. These assessments include full diagnostic testing and individual care planning.

 

5. What is the difference between a hearing test and a hearing screening?

A screening is a quick check, while a test is a full diagnostic assessment. Diagnostic testing provides accurate results and a clinical explanation.

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Screenings identify whether hearing loss might be present. Diagnostic tests confirm the type, severity and cause of hearing loss through several clinical procedures. Brighter Ears conducts full diagnostic hearing tests for adults in Ipswich, Springfield, Sumner, Logan and surrounding areas.

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6. How often should I get my hearing checked?

Most adults should have a hearing test every 1–2 years. If you notice changes, test sooner.

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Regular checks help detect hearing loss early, particularly for adults over 50. People exposed to noise, with tinnitus or with a family history of hearing loss should test annually. Brighter Ears provides ongoing monitoring to keep your hearing stable over time.

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7. Do you offer home visits for hearing tests?

Yes, Brighter Ears offers home visits for eligible patients. We also provide nursing home and aged-care visits.

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Visits include full diagnostic testing and follow-up appointments. This service is available in Sumner, Jindalee, Jamboree Heights, Mount Ommaney, Springfield, Camira, Ipswich and nearby suburbs. It's ideal for patients with mobility issues or chronic health concerns.

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8. What causes blocked ears?

Blocked ears are commonly caused by wax buildup, congestion or infections. A clinical ear examination is required to confirm the cause.

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Brighter Ears performs otoscopy and microsuction to safely remove earwax. If the cause is medical (such as sinus pressure, fluid or infection), we refer you to your GP with a clear report. Most blocked-ear issues are easily resolved once the true cause is identified.

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9. What is microsuction ear cleaning?

Microsuction is a safe, gentle method of removing earwax using a medical suction device.
It is the preferred method for ear cleaning.

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Unlike ear syringing, microsuction does not use water, making it safer for patients with perforated eardrums, infections or grommets. Brighter Ears provides professional microsuction for adults in Brisbane’s western suburbs and Ipswich.

 

10. Can earwax affect hearing?

Yes, excessive earwax can cause temporary hearing loss and ear blockage. Removal usually restores hearing immediately.

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Wax buildup can also cause tinnitus, ear pressure and discomfort. Brighter Ears offers safe microsuction ear cleaning to restore clear hearing and prevent ongoing issues. Appointments are available in Brisbane and surrounding suburbs.

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11. Do hearing aids help with tinnitus?

Yes — hearing aids can significantly reduce tinnitus awareness. They provide sound enrichment and improve the brain’s focus on speech.

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Many tinnitus symptoms are linked to untreated hearing loss. When hearing aids restore soft environmental sounds, the brain reduces its focus on the ringing. Brands like Widex, Signia and Starkey include dedicated tinnitus programs tailored to individual needs. Many in Ipswich and Brisbane report relief within weeks of consistent use.

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12. What is the difference between RIC and BTE hearing aids?

RIC devices place the speaker in the ear canal; BTE devices keep it behind the ear.
RICs are smaller and more discreet.

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BTEs are more suitable for stronger prescriptions or moisture-prone ears. At Brighter Ears we help patients choose based on lifestyle, dexterity, ear shape and hearing levels.

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13. Are rechargeable hearing aids better?

Rechargeable hearing aids are convenient and easy to manage. They remove the need for battery changes.

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Modern rechargeable systems last all day and charge overnight. They’re ideal for adults with dexterity issues or those wanting a simpler routine. Brighter Ears provides rechargeables across all major brands.

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14. How long do rechargeable hearing aid batteries last?

Rechargeable batteries typically last 18–30 hours per charge. Most last several years before needing replacement.

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Battery life depends on streaming use, noise environment and the device model. Brighter Ears provides guidance on maximising battery performance and replacing degraded cells.

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15. Do hearing aids connect to iPhones and Android phones?

Yes, most modern hearing aids support Bluetooth streaming for both iPhone and Android.
This allows calls, music and media directly to your ears.

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Connectivity varies slightly by brand, but Brighter Ears matches you with devices that suit your phone, lifestyle and technology preferences.

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16. How long do hearing aids last?

Most hearing aids last 5–7 years with proper care. Regular servicing extends their lifespan.

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Brighter Ears provides cleaning, firmware updates and annual reviews to keep devices performing well. Using protective drying cases and attending routine checks helps prevent moisture or debris damage.

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17. Can hearing loss increase the risk of dementia?

Untreated hearing loss is associated with a higher risk of cognitive decline. Using hearing aids early may reduce that risk.

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Research shows that hearing loss can strain the brain, increasing cognitive load. Amplification improves communication, reduces isolation and supports healthy cognitive function. Brighter Ears educates patients on the long-term importance of early treatment. 

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18. What causes age-related hearing loss?

Age-related hearing loss (presbycusis) is caused by gradual damage to inner-ear cells. It typically affects clarity of hearing rather than volume.

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This leads to difficulty hearing in noise, following conversations and understanding soft speech. Regular hearing checks help detect presbycusis early. Treatment improves communication and safety.

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19. Do hearing aids fix hearing loss?

Hearing aids do not “fix” hearing loss but improve your ability to hear clearly. They help you experience speech and environmental sounds more naturally.

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Brighter Ears focuses on helping people continue enjoying conversations, social life and daily sounds. This includes safety, awareness and quality of life—not unrealistic promises.

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20. Can hearing loss affect balance?

Hearing loss itself doesn’t cause balance problems, but inner-ear disorders can affect both.
Some patients experience dizziness or unsteadiness.

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We assess symptoms and refer to a GP or ENT if balance issues are present. Hearing aid use can improve spatial awareness, which indirectly helps confidence with walking and moving around.

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21. Why is it hard to hear in noisy places?

Hearing loss reduces the brain’s ability to separate speech from noise. Clarity suffers even if speech seems loud enough.

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Modern hearing aids use directional microphones and AI noise reduction to improve conversation in restaurants, cafés and gatherings. Brighter Ears selects technology based on your listening environments, lifestyle and sound preferences.

 

22. What is speech discrimination?

Speech discrimination measures how well you understand words at a comfortable volume.
It shows how clearly your ears send information to your brain.

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Some people hear “loud enough” but still struggle with clarity. This test helps guide treatment options, including hearing aid selection and setting up expectations.

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23. What are the first signs of hearing loss?

Common early signs include needing repeats, turning the TV up and struggling in noise.
Tinnitus and muffled speech are also common.

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If you recognise these changes, a hearing test is recommended. Early treatment results in better long-term outcomes.

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24. Do you offer free hearing aid trials?

Yes, Brighter Ears offers a no-obligation 2-week hearing aid trial. You can experience real-world benefit before committing.

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Trials include follow-up appointments to adjust sound, discuss comfort and evaluate clarity. This ensures you choose the right device confidently.

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25. What is a conductive hearing loss?

Conductive loss occurs when sound cannot pass efficiently through the outer or middle ear. Common causes include wax, fluid, infections and eardrum issues. Treatment often resolves the issue, and hearing aids are used when needed. Brighter Ears performs diagnostic testing to identify the cause accurately.

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26. What is a sensorineural hearing loss?

Sensorineural loss involves inner-ear or nerve damage. It is typically permanent.

Treatment focuses on improving clarity using hearing aids. Early management improves long-term hearing outcomes and cognitive health.

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27. What is mixed hearing loss?

Mixed hearing loss includes both conductive and sensorineural components. Treatment may involve medical care plus hearing aids.

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Brighter Ears identifies the portions of each and provides a combined management plan. Follow-up testing helps track improvement.

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28. Will hearing aids make everything loud?

No — modern devices amplify speech selectively and control loud sounds. They adapt automatically to your environment.

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We fine-tune the balance between comfort and clarity. Most patients report improvement within the first week as the brain adjusts.

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29.  Why do I hear people but can’t understand them?

This is usually due to loss of clarity rather than volume. High-frequency hearing loss affects speech understanding.

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Hearing aids restore access to high-frequency cues like consonants, improving clarity in conversations. Brighter Ears measures clarity through speech discrimination testing.

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30. What is a tympanometry test?

Tympanometry checks how well your eardrum and middle-ear system move by using gentle air pressure changes.

It helps diagnose fluid, eardrum issues, perforations or pressure abnormalities.

Brighter Ears performs tympanometry in every diagnostic appointment because it reveals issues that can’t be seen through otoscopy alone. This test is particularly valuable for patients with blocked sensations, fluctuating hearing or a history of middle-ear problems.

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31. Why is early hearing testing important?

Early testing helps detect changes before they affect daily life. It provides a baseline for future comparisons.

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People often adapt to gradual decline without realising it's happening. Testing ensures problems are addressed promptly, supporting communication, safety and long-term wellbeing.

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32. Are hearing tests free?

Hearing tests are free for eligible pensioners and DVA cardholders under the Hearing Services Program. ​ Private patients pay a fee, which includes a full diagnostic assessment. Brighter Ears provides clear upfront pricing for residents across Brisbane.

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33. Why do some voices sound muffled?

Muffled voices often indicate early hearing loss, wax buildup or middle-ear fluid.
Clarity usually declines before volume.

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When high-frequency hearing drops, consonants like “s,” “f,” and “th” become harder to distinguish. This makes voices sound unclear even if they seem loud enough. A simple hearing test can identify the cause and guide treatment.

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34. Do hearing aids help with TV volume problems?

Yes — hearing aids can significantly improve TV clarity.
They enhance speech cues and reduce the need for high volume.

Many devices can stream TV audio directly to the ears for better sound quality without disturbing others. This is a popular option for families in Jindalee, Sumner and Springfield.

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35. Why does one ear hear better than the other?

One ear may hear better due to wax, infections or asymmetrical hearing loss.
A hearing test can determine the cause quickly.

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Sudden differences between ears should be checked urgently. Long-standing differences often reflect natural asymmetry or past ear issues. Brighter Ears provides full diagnostic testing with clear explanations of each result.

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36. Are hearing aids waterproof?

Most hearing aids are water-resistant, not fully waterproof. They can manage sweat and light rain but not swimming or showering.

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Brands like Phonak and ReSound offer models with stronger moisture protection for people living active or humid lifestyles. We match devices to each person’s environment, especially in Queensland’s heat.

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37. Why do hearing aids whistle?

Whistling (feedback) happens when amplified sound escapes the ear and re-enters the microphone.
It’s usually fixable with adjustments.

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Causes include loose domes, wax blockage, poor insertion or incorrect settings. Modern hearing aids include advanced feedback control to reduce this. Brighter Ears can solve most issues in a quick follow-up appointment.

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38. Do hearing aids take time to get used to?

Yes — most people need 2–4 weeks to adjust fully. Your brain needs time to relearn to hear soft sounds. We provide a very structured follow-up, fine-tuning and support during this period. Regular wear accelerates adaptation and improves long-term outcomes.

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39. How often should I clean my hearing aids?

You should clean your hearing aids daily with a cloth and wax tool. Regular cleaning keeps sound quality clear and prevents blockages.

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Microphones and receivers are extremely small, so even minor wax or moisture can affect clarity. Brighter Ears offers maintenance checks, replacement domes and filters, and professional cleaning to extend the life of your devices. Clean ears also help hearing aids work more effectively.

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40. Do hearing aids need servicing?

Yes, hearing aids benefit from regular servicing. Routine checks improve reliability, clarity and comfort.

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We inspect microphones, receivers, domes, filters and moisture levels during appointments. Every 3 years we also recommend sending the aids to manufacturers for a full inspection. Servicing helps prevent breakdowns, improves performance and keeps devices working safely.

 

Brighter Ears recommends check-ups every 6–12 months.

 

41. Do hearing aids connect to smartphones?

Yes — most modern hearing aids connect to smartphones via Bluetooth. This allows calls, music and notifications to stream directly.

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Apps also let you adjust settings, track battery life and customise programs. Bluetooth connectivity is now standard even in entry-level devices available to pensioners.

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42. Can I wear hearing aids with glasses?

Yes — hearing aids and glasses work well together. RIC and BTE styles fit comfortably behind the ear.

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We consider your glasses thickness and ear shape when selecting models to ensure a secure and comfortable fit.

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43. What is feedback control in hearing aids?

Feedback control prevents whistling by cancelling unwanted sound loops. It keeps listening comfortable and clear. In modern systems automatically adapt in real time, even when you hug someone or wear a hat. If your hearing aids are whistling in today's day and age, you absolutely need to go back to your audiologist and get them checked.

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44. Why do some people hear but can’t understand?

This occurs when clarity is affected more than volume. High-frequency hearing loss is usually the cause.

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Restoring access to consonants improves speech understanding significantly. A hearing assessment provides a clear explanation of what’s happening and how to treat it.

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45. Are online hearing tests accurate?

Online tests can give a rough indication but are not diagnostic. They can miss key details about clarity, middle-ear health and asymmetry.

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A full diagnostic test at Brighter Ears provides precise results and a personalised plan.

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46. What is the difference between cheap amplifiers and real hearing aids?

Cheap amplifiers boost all sound, while hearing aids selectively amplify speech.
Amplifiers can worsen clarity or even damage hearing.

 

Modern hearing aids use AI, noise reduction and directional microphones to improve communication safely and effectively.

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47. Do hearing aids work for “selective hearing”?

Many cases of “selective hearing” can actually be early hearing loss. People often miss soft or distant speech without realising it.

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A hearing test can clarify what’s happening and guide early intervention.

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48. How do hearing aids handle wind noise?

Modern hearing aids use microphones and AI to reduce wind noise but not completely elimiate them. This improves outdoor comfort. 

 

Some brands offer specialised wind management modes ideal for Queensland’s parks, beaches and walking tracks. 

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49. Can ear infections cause hearing loss?

Yes — infections can reduce hearing temporarily or permanently. Early treatment is important.

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Recurrent infections may lead to scarring or middle-ear problems. Brighter Ears works with local GPs to support appropriate management.

 

50. What is a hearing rehabilitation plan?

A rehab plan helps you adapt to hearing aids and improve communication. It includes follow-ups, fine-tuning and listening strategies.

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Brighter Ears provides personalised support to maximise outcomes, especially during the first few weeks of use.

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51. Should I wear hearing aids all day?

Yes — consistent use leads to better results. Your brain learns to interpret improved sound.

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Most people notice clearer communication and less listening fatigue when wearing their aids throughout the day.

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52. What if I don’t like how hearing aids sound at first?

Initial sound may feel different, but it improves with time. We adjust settings gradually to match your preferences.

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Follow-up appointments ensure you feel comfortable and confident with your devices.

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53. How do I clean my hearing aids?

Wipe them daily and clean filters and domes weekly. Good care improves reliability.

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Brighter Ears provides cleaning tools and demonstrations at every fitting.

 

54. Can I sleep with hearing aids on?

It’s not recommended to sleep with hearing aids on. They need airflow, and it prevents discomfort.

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Place them in a dry box or charger overnight to maintain performance.

 

55. What is real-ear measurement (REM)?

REM is a precise fitting technique that measures sound in your ear canal. It ensures accurate, personalised amplification.

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Brighter Ears uses REM for every clinical fitting to match hearing prescription targets.

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56. Why do I hear echoey or tinny sounds at first?

This occurs when your brain adjusts to sounds you haven’t heard clearly in years. It improves with consistent wear.

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Fine-tuning during follow-ups smooths out these early sensations.

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57. Can hearing aids reduce listening fatigue?

Yes — they reduce strain by improving clarity. Less effort is needed to follow conversations.

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Many people report feeling more relaxed and engaged during family or social events.

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58. Will hearing aids help at work?

Yes — they improve communication, confidence and awareness at work. Meetings and phone calls become easier.

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We tailor programs for office, retail, trade or outdoor environments across Brisbane.

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59. Are CIC (in-ear) hearing aids good?

CIC aids are discreet and effective for mild–moderate loss. They fit fully inside the ear.

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Brighter Ears offers CIC options within both private and fully subsidised categories, depending on hearing needs.

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60. Why does untreated hearing loss get worse?

When hearing isn’t stimulated, the brain’s processing ability declines. This leads to reduced clarity over time.

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Early intervention supports long-term hearing health and maintains communication skills.

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61. Why do loud sounds feel uncomfortable?

Loud sounds feel uncomfortable when the inner ear becomes sensitive or damaged. This is common in people with hearing loss or past noise exposure.

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The inner ear can develop “recruitment,” where soft sounds may be quiet but loud sounds feel too sharp. Hearing aids with compression help soften loud noises while keeping speech clear, especially helpful for people exposed to noise in industries.

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62. Can stress make tinnitus worse?

Yes, stress often increases the perception of tinnitus. Managing stress can reduce awareness of ringing.

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Stress hormones heighten the brain’s focus on sound, making tinnitus more noticeable. Relaxation strategies and better hearing through hearing aids often reduce symptoms. Many people report improvement after addressing both hearing and lifestyle factors.

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63. Why does my ear feel blocked even though there is no wax?

A blocked sensation without wax may come from middle-ear pressure, sinus issues or hearing loss.
A hearing test helps identify the cause.

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Eustachian tube dysfunction can create fullness, especially after illness or allergies. Sometimes mild hearing loss creates a similar “blocked” sensation. Tympanometry and audiometry at Brighter Ears offer a clear explanation.

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64. Can diabetes affect hearing?

Yes — diabetes is linked to higher rates of hearing loss. Changes in blood flow can affect inner-ear function. Also diabetics can have their immune system comprimised and be at higher risk for ear infections. 

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Adults with diabetes should test their hearing yearly. The prevalence of diabetes is quite high in Logan, Redbank, Goodna and Inala, hence annual check ups are highly recoomended.

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65. What is auditory fatigue?

Auditory fatigue is tiredness from straining to listen. It’s common in untreated hearing loss.

When the brain works harder to decode unclear speech, people feel mentally drained. Hearing aids reduce this effort and restore comfortable listening during work, family conversations and social events.

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66. Do children get hearing loss too?

Yes — children can experience temporary or permanent hearing loss. Common causes include glue ear, infections and genetics.

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Paediatric assessments check middle-ear health, clarity and hearing levels. Early support ensures speech, learning and development progress normally. 

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67. How does noise exposure damage hearing?

Loud noise damages inner-ear cells responsible for clarity. Once damaged, they do not grow back.

Workers in construction, hospitality and music venues across Brisbane are at higher risk. Custom earplugs and annual hearing checks help protect long-term hearing.

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68. Can hearing aids help with soft voices?

Yes — modern hearing aids enhance soft speech. They restore access to gentle sounds without making loud sounds harsh.

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This helps with children’s voices, softly spoken partners and group conversations. AI processing adjusts in real time to maintain clarity.

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69. Why do I struggle to hear women and children more than men?

Women and children speak in higher frequencies, which are often the first to decline. This makes their voices harder to understand.

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High-frequency loss reduces clarity of “s,” “f,” “t” and similar sounds. Hearing aids restore these cues and make speech more natural.

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70. Can headphones damage my hearing?

Yes — prolonged loud headphone use can cause permanent hearing loss. Safe listening limits are essential.

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Volume over 60% for long periods increases risk. Noise-cancelling headphones reduce the need for high volume, especially in public transport around Brisbane and Ipswich.

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71. Do hearing aids help in the car?

Yes — hearing aids improve conversation and awareness in cars. They reduce road noise and enhance speech from passengers.

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Directional microphones help focus on the person speaking. This supports safer driving and easier communication between family members.

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72. Why is my own voice loud with new hearing aids?

Your own voice may sound louder while adjusting to amplification. This reduces as your brain adapts.

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At Brighter Ears, use features like Own Voice Processing and gradual gain adjustments to make the transition comfortable.

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73. What is the difference between mild and moderate hearing loss?

Mild loss affects soft speech; moderate loss affects everyday conversations. Moderate loss often leads to social fatigue.

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Early treatment for both levels improves clarity, confidence and long-term outcomes. A full assessment outlines which category applies.

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74. Do hearing aids work for long-standing hearing loss?

Yes — even long-standing hearing loss benefits from amplification. The brain adapts at any age.

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People often notice improved quality of life, communication and safety once hearing is restored. Early use is ideal, but it’s never too late to start.

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75. Can allergies affect my hearing?

Yes — allergies can cause temporary blocked ears or muffled hearing. Inflammation affects middle-ear pressure.

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Treating the allergy and checking hearing ensures symptoms resolve properly. Tympanometry helps confirm if fluid or pressure is involved.

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76. How long does it take to notice improvements with hearing aids?

Many people notice improvements immediately; full adjustment takes weeks. Consistency is key.

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Within the first month, listening becomes easier and more natural. Follow-ups refine the sound based on real-world situations.

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77. What is a cochlear implant?

A cochlear implant is a medical device for severe hearing loss.
It bypasses damaged inner-ear cells and stimulates the hearing nerve directly.

Adults who struggle with hearing aids may benefit. Brighter Ears provides pre-referral assessments and post-implant rehabilitation guidance.

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78. Why does tinnitus get louder at night?

Tinnitus feels louder at night because external sound is reduced. The quiet room makes internal noise more noticeable.

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Soft background sound, hearing aids, or tinnitus programs help mask the ringing. Many patients find relief using controlled sound environments.

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79. Can hearing aids help with group conversations?

Yes — modern hearing aids significantly improve group communication. They use directional microphones to prioritise speech.

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AI technology separates voices from background noise, ideal for family gatherings, restaurants and community events.

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80. Why does hearing loss make people withdraw socially?

Hearing loss increases listening effort and can cause frustration.
Over time, people may avoid conversations or social events.

Improving hearing reduces fatigue and restores confidence. Many patients rediscover enjoyment in social life once communication becomes clearer.

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81. Why do some people hear better in one room than another?

Room acoustics affect how sound travels. Hard surfaces create echo, while soft furnishings absorb sound.

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People with hearing loss notice these differences more. A living room with carpets and curtains will sound clearer than a tiled kitchen. Modern hearing aids adjust automatically to different spaces, improving comfort across homes in Ipswich, Springfield and surrounding suburbs.

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82. Do hearing aids help with soft voices?

Yes — properly programmed hearing aids amplify low-level speech. This makes soft or gentle talkers easier to understand.

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Many clients struggle most with grandchildren, partners or softly spoken colleagues. Advanced microphones and AI processing lift these sounds without making loud noise uncomfortable. This creates a more natural, balanced listening experience.

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83. Why do sudden loud noises bother me now?

This sensitivity often happens when the brain works harder to listen. Hearing loss can heighten reactions to sharp sounds.

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When clarity drops, the auditory system becomes overactive. Sudden noises — doors, dishes, alarms — feel disproportionately loud. Hearing aids with compression and comfort settings help regulate this response.

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84. Can sinus problems affect hearing?

Yes — sinus congestion can block the Eustachian tubes. This causes pressure changes and muffled hearing.

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Many people in Brisbane’s humid climate experience temporary conductive loss during allergy seasons. Once the sinus issue clears, hearing generally returns to normal. A hearing check confirms whether anything else is contributing.

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85. Why does my hearing fluctuate day to day?

Daily hearing changes are usually linked to pressure, wax or fatigue. Even hydration can influence how the ears feel.

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If fluctuations become more frequent, testing helps determine whether underlying hearing loss exists. Subtle sensorineural loss can create “good and bad days.” Supportive strategies make listening more consistent.

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86. Can antidepressants affect tinnitus?

Some medications can influence tinnitus perception. 
This varies between individuals.

Changes often result from shifts in brain chemistry rather than ear damage. If tinnitus increased after starting a medication, a GP review may help. Audiology support, sound therapy and hearing aids reduce overall awareness.

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87. Is it safe to wear headphones with hearing loss?

Yes, when used at safe volumes (<60%). Many people with loss enjoy music through headphones.

Noise-cancelling headphones are often better because they reduce the need to turn the volume up. The key is moderation and safe listening levels. If the music is leaking enough for others to hear, it’s too loud.

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88. Why does ear wax keep coming back?

Some people naturally produce more wax. Ear canals and skin type play a role.

Narrow canals, eczema, hearing aids and genetics can all increase buildup. Regular checks prevent blockage and hearing interference. Manual cleaning by a professional is safest and most comfortable.

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89. Can high blood pressure affect hearing?

Yes — circulation changes can impact inner-ear function. The cochlea relies on stable blood flow.

Untreated hypertension may increase the risk of hearing decline or sudden hearing changes. A hearing test helps monitor long-term effects. Early detection supports better outcomes.

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90. Can flying cause permanent ear damage?

Rarely — most discomfort is temporary pressure. But blocked ears during a flight can lead to barotrauma. 

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People with allergies, colds or wax buildup are most vulnerable. Clearing the canals and ensuring good Eustachian function helps prevent pain. If symptoms persist after landing, testing is recommended.

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91. Why do my ears crackle when I swallow?

This is usually the Eustachian tube opening. It helps balance pressure in the middle ear.

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Crackling is normal unless it becomes painful or persistent. Hydration, swallowing, yawning and nasal sprays may help. If crackling occurs with muffled hearing, a check-up confirms whether fluid or pressure changes are present.

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92. Can hearing aids help with phone conversations?

Yes — most modern hearing aids stream calls directly. This improves clarity and reduces background noise.

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Bluetooth streaming sends the caller’s voice into both ears, creating easier and more natural conversations. Many clients of Brighter Ears say it transforms their daily communication with family and friends.

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93. Why does one ear ring louder than the other?

Tinnitus often matches the ear with greater hearing loss. Asymmetry is a common pattern.

If the ringing worsens suddenly, a diagnostic test is important. Identifying the underlying hearing difference guides better tinnitus management. Treatment often reduces imbalance and internal noise.

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94. Can sleeping position affect tinnitus?

Pressure on the jaw or ear can change perception. Lying on one side can amplify internal noise.

Many people notice differences depending on pillow firmness or head angle. Adjusting sleep posture or using white noise reduces intensity. Hearing aids with tinnitus programs also support restful nights.

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95. Why do I struggle more in busy cafés?

Background noise masks consonants and speech details. People with hearing loss feel this most.

Cafés can be acoustically challenging due to hard surfaces. Directional microphones, AI noise separation and remote microphone accessories significantly improve clarity in these environments.

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96. Can hearing loss make me feel off-balance?

Yes, reduced auditory input affects spatial awareness. The brain uses sound to orient itself.

Clients often describe veering, unsteadiness or hesitation when walking in crowded spaces. Restoring sound input supports stability and confidence. A full hearing assessment helps identify contributing factors.

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97. Do hearing aids prevent further hearing loss?

They don’t prevent it, but they protect listening health. Hearing aids reduce strain and improve brain engagement.

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Untreated hearing loss can progress faster due to auditory deprivation. Amplification keeps the auditory pathways active and reduces cognitive load. Many clients maintain clearer communication for longer with early support. 

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98. Is tinnitus hereditary?

Tinnitus itself is not inherited, but risk factors can be. Hearing loss, noise exposure patterns and ear conditions may run in families.

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If family members experience hearing issues, early testing helps identify trends. Proper management reduces long-term impact and improves comfort.

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99. Why does my tinnitus sound like crickets or cicadas?

Different tinnitus tones relate to specific frequencies of hearing loss. High-pitch damage often produces “cicada-like” ringing.

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This presentation is very common in Queensland where noise exposure is widespread. A hearing test maps out the pitch of the tinnitus and guides personalised treatment strategies.

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100. Why do I hear my heartbeat in my ear?

This is called pulsatile tinnitus. It’s linked to blood flow changes near the ear.

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While often harmless, it should be investigated. A GP or ENT may check blood pressure, vessel structure and other contributors. Audiology assessment helps rule out ear-related causes.