Maico Audiological Services provides expert hearing care to help you stay connected to the sounds and people that matter most.
From comprehensive hearing evaluations, hearing aid fittings, and excellent after-care services, our Virginia audiologists and hearing instrument specialists are here to support you with compassionate and personalized hearing care.
Visit us in Newport News, VA, Chesapeake, VA, and Smithfield, VA to experience personalized, expert hearing care designed with your needs in mind.
Hearing Services in Virginia
Hearing Evaluations
We offer complete hearing evaluations to better understand your hearing health. Our tests help determine the type and level of hearing loss you may be experiencing, so we can recommend solutions that are tailored to your lifestyle and needs.
Which hearing test is best for me?
The best hearing test depends on your individual needs. A comprehensive hearing evaluation performed by an audiologist is the most accurate way to assess your hearing health. A professional hearing test is the most reliable way to detect hearing loss and find the best solution for your hearing needs.
Can I test my own hearing at home?
You can do a simple self-check by watching for signs like:
- Struggling to follow conversations
- Turning up the volume on your TV or phone
- Frequently asking others to repeat themselves
There are also online tools and hearing apps that offer basic screenings. While these may give you a general idea of your hearing ability, please note that they aren’t a substitute for a full evaluation. If you notice any signs of hearing loss, schedule a professional hearing test with an audiologist or hearing aid specialist to get accurate answers.
Are online hearing tests accurate?
Online hearing tests can be a helpful first step, but they have limitations. Most measure your ability to hear tones through headphones or speakers, but they don’t evaluate how well you understand speech, middle or inner ear function, and what’s causing your hearing loss. While online tests may suggest a hearing issue, a professional hearing evaluation is the best way to diagnose the problem and find the right treatment plan.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss Evaluation & Treatment
Our experienced audiologists or hearing instrument specialists at Maico Audiological Services will perform a thorough hearing evaluation to determine the degree and type of hearing loss.
Can sensorineural hearing loss be treated?
While sensorineural hearing loss usually can’t be reversed medically or surgically, it can be effectively managed. The most common treatment is hearing aids, which amplify sound and improve clarity. At Maico Audiological Services, our audiologist or hearing instrument specialist will help find the right hearing aid based on your hearing test results, lifestyle, and communication needs.
How do I know if I have sensorineural hearing loss?
You might notice symptoms like muffled speech, trouble understanding conversations (especially in crowds), or turning up the TV volume often. The only way to know for sure is through a professional hearing evaluation.
Is sensorineural hearing loss the same in both ears?
Not always. Sensorineural hearing loss can affect one ear (unilateral) or both ears (bilateral). It may develop gradually over time or happen suddenly. Some people experience more severe hearing loss in one ear than the other. A comprehensive hearing evaluation at Maico Audiological Services will identify the pattern and severity of your hearing loss, so we can recommend the most effective solution for you.
Hearing Aid Services
From helping you choose the right hearing aid to providing expert fittings, cleanings, and repairs, we’re here for every step of your hearing journey. Our goal is to ensure you always enjoy clear, comfortable sound wherever life takes you.
How do I know which hearing aid is right for me?
Choosing the right hearing aid depends on your level of hearing loss, lifestyle, and personal preferences. During your hearing aid consultation at Maico Audiological Services, our audiologist or hearing instrument specialist will walk you through your options, explain the features of different models, and recommend the best fit for your needs and budget.
Do hearing aids need to be professionally fitted?
Yes. A professional fitting ensures your hearing aids are programmed correctly and sit comfortably in your ears. Our audiologist or hearing instrument specialist will adjust the devices based on your hearing test results and make sure they provide clear, natural sound.
How long does it take to get used to hearing aids?
It can take a few days to several weeks to adjust to new hearing aids. At first, sounds may seem louder or unfamiliar, but your brain will gradually adapt. We’re here to guide you through the adjustment period and make any needed changes to improve your comfort and hearing experience.
Hearing Aid Fittings
Getting the perfect fit is key to getting the most out of your hearing aids. Our audiologist or hearing instrument specialist will make sure your devices are properly adjusted for your hearing loss, comfort, and lifestyle, giving you the best hearing experience possible.
What happens during a hearing aid fitting?
During your fitting, our audiologist or hearing instrument specialist will program your hearing aids based on your hearing test results. We’ll make sure they fit comfortably, explain how to use them, and adjust the settings so you can hear clearly in different environments. You’ll also have time to ask questions and practice using your new devices.
Why is a proper hearing aid fitting important?
A proper fit ensures that your hearing aids provide clear sound without discomfort or feedback (whistling). Everyone’s ears and hearing needs are different, so a custom fitting helps your devices perform their best and makes your adjustment period much easier.
Will I need follow-up appointments after the fitting?
Yes. Follow-up visits are an important part of the process. We’ll check how your hearing aids are working, fine-tune the settings, and make sure you’re comfortable with using and caring for them. These visits help ensure long-term success and satisfaction.
Hearing Aid Cleaning and Repair
If your hearing aid isn’t working quite right, we can help. We offer fast, reliable cleaning and repair services to keep your devices functioning at their best so you can keep hearing clearly.
How often should I clean my hearing aids?
We recommend cleaning your hearing aids daily using a soft, dry cloth and any tools recommended by your hearing aid provider. Regular cleaning helps prevent wax buildup and keeps your devices working properly. We’ll also show you how to care for them during your fitting.
What are the signs my hearing aids need repair?
If your hearing aids sound weak, cut in and out, whistle often, or stop working entirely, they may need repair. Sometimes the issue is as simple as wax buildup or a clogged microphone, but if cleaning doesn’t fix it, bring them in for a professional check.
Do you offer in-office hearing aid repairs?
Yes. Maico Audiological Services offers quick, in-office repairs for common issues like tubing replacements, battery door problems, and filter changes. If your device needs manufacturer repair, we’ll help coordinate that process and keep you updated.
Custom Ear Protection
Whether you’re a hunter, musician, swimmer, or work in loud environments, we offer custom-fit earplugs that provide the protection you need. Our audiologist or hearing instrument specialist will make sure your ear protection fits comfortably and works effectively.
Who should use custom ear protection?
Custom ear protection is helpful for anyone exposed to loud sounds or who needs specialized protection. This includes hunters, musicians, swimmers, construction workers, factory employees, and anyone who wants a secure, comfortable fit for long-term use.
How is custom ear protection made?
Our audiologist or hearing instrument specialist will take an impression of your ear to create a mold that fits you perfectly. This ensures a snug, comfortable fit that offers better protection than standard, one-size earplugs. Once made, your custom ear protection is tailored to your specific needs.
What are the benefits of custom earplugs over store-bought ones?
Unlike generic earplugs, custom ear protection is designed to fit your ear shape exactly, which makes them more comfortable and effective. They provide better noise reduction, last longer, and can be customized for specific uses.