What Services Can Be Done During Walk-In Hours?

Need a little help with your hearing aids? Our Walk-In Clinic makes it easy to get quick assistance without an appointment!

During walk-in hours, our team can help with a variety of common hearing aid needs, including:

• Hearing aid cleanings and basic maintenance

• Replacing domes, wax filters, and receiver wires

• Troubleshooting hearing aid issues

• Pairing your hearing aids with your phone or other devices

• Helping with Bluetooth connectivity

• Providing hearing aid supplies

• Answering questions about your hearing aids and accessories

Whether your hearing aids aren't working quite right, you need a replacement filter, or you're having trouble connecting them to your phone, we're here to help.

No appointment is necessary during our designated Walk-In Clinic hours! Stop by Cardinal Hearing Center and let us help keep your hearing aids working their best.

Walk-In Clinic Hours:
Monday: 1:00–3:00 PM
Thursday: 2:00–4:00 PM
Friday: 9:00–11:00 AM

Have questions? Give us a call at 330-468-4288. We look forward to seeing you!

📍 141 E Aurora Rd. Ste 3. Northfield, OH 44067
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

The Importance of Routine Hearing Aid Maintenance

Hearing aids are an important investment in better hearing and staying connected to the people and sounds around you. Like any technology, they perform best when they are properly cared for. Routine hearing aid maintenance can help keep your devices working reliably, improve sound quality, and potentially extend their lifespan.

Why Is Hearing Aid Maintenance Important?

Hearing aids are exposed to earwax, moisture, dust, skin oils, and everyday debris. Over time, these can build up and interfere with the microphones, receivers, speakers, and other components.

Even when your hearing aids appear to be working normally, routine maintenance can help prevent small issues from becoming bigger problems.

1. Keep Sound Clear

Earwax and debris can clog hearing aid filters, domes, and microphone openings. This may cause sounds to become weak, muffled, distorted, or quieter than usual.

Regular cleaning and replacement of filters and domes can help your hearing aids deliver the sound they were designed to provide.

2. Prevent Common Problems

Many hearing aid problems are caused by something simple, such as a clogged filter, dirty microphone, low battery, or moisture buildup. Routine care can help identify these issues early and reduce unexpected problems.

If your hearing aid suddenly seems quieter or isn't working properly, maintenance should be one of the first things to consider.

3. Protect Your Investment

Hearing aids can be a significant investment. Proper care can help protect that investment by reducing unnecessary wear and keeping your devices functioning properly.

While routine maintenance cannot prevent every repair, taking good care of your hearing aids may help them last longer.

4. Maintain Comfort

Domes, tubing, and other parts that come into contact with your ear can collect debris over time. Keeping these components clean and replacing them when necessary can help maintain a comfortable fit.

Your hearing care professional can also check whether your hearing aids are still fitting properly and make adjustments when needed.

Simple Hearing Aid Maintenance Tips

A few simple habits can make a big difference:

• Clean your hearing aids regularly using the cleaning tools recommended by your hearing care professional.

• Check your domes and filters for wax or debris and replace them as needed.

• Keep your hearing aids dry. Remove them before showering, swimming, or using products such as hairspray.

• Store them properly when you're not wearing them, preferably in a safe, dry location.

• Check rechargeable devices regularly and keep the charger and charging contacts clean.

• Schedule professional cleanings so your hearing care provider can inspect the devices and address problems you may not be able to see.

Don't Ignore Changes in Performance

If your hearing aids aren't sounding as clear or loud as they normally do, don't simply assume the devices are wearing out. A professional cleaning or minor adjustment may be all that's needed.

Your hearing care provider can inspect the hearing aids, clean hard-to-reach areas, replace worn components, and make sure the devices are functioning properly.

Make Maintenance Part of Your Routine

Just like changing the oil in your car or scheduling regular dental cleanings, hearing aid maintenance is an important part of protecting your investment. A few minutes of regular care can help you get the most out of your hearing aids and enjoy more consistent performance.

Need help with your hearing aids? Cardinal Hearing Center is here to help with hearing aid cleanings, troubleshooting, supplies, and other routine maintenance needs. Contact our office or stop by during our Walk-In Clinic hours to keep your hearing aids performing their best!

📍 141 E Aurora Rd. Ste 3. Northfield, OH 44067
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

Rechargeable vs. Disposable Hearing Aid Batteries: Which Is Right for You?

When it comes to hearing aids, one of the most common questions patients have is: Should I choose rechargeable hearing aids or hearing aids that use disposable batteries?

Both options have their advantages, and the best choice depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and hearing needs. Here’s what you should know before making your decision.

🔋 Rechargeable Hearing Aids

Rechargeable hearing aids have become increasingly popular because of their convenience. Instead of replacing batteries regularly, you simply place your hearing aids in their charger when you're finished wearing them for the day.

Benefits of rechargeable hearing aids:

• Convenient: Simply place your hearing aids in the charger overnight.

• No frequent battery changes: You don't have to keep track of small disposable batteries.

• Easy to use: They can be especially helpful for people who have difficulty handling small batteries.

• Less waste: Rechargeable devices eliminate the need to regularly dispose of used batteries.

• Great for busy lifestyles: Charging can easily become part of your daily routine.

Many modern rechargeable hearing aids can provide enough power to last through a full day of typical use, although battery life can vary depending on the hearing aid, settings, streaming, and how frequently you use features such as Bluetooth.

🪫 Disposable Hearing Aid Batteries

Traditional hearing aids may use small zinc-air disposable batteries. These batteries are typically available in different sizes, with size 10, 13, 312, and 675 being the most common.

Benefits of disposable batteries:

• Easy to replace: Simply carry a few spare batteries with you in case you need them.

• No charging required: You can continue using your hearing aids as long as you have replacement batteries available.

• Convenient for travel: You don't have to worry about finding an electrical outlet or remembering a charger.

• Long-term flexibility: If your hearing aid battery runs out, replacing it takes just a few minutes.

For people who travel frequently, spend extended periods away from home, or simply prefer not to charge their devices, disposable batteries may still be a great option.

⚖️ Rechargeable vs. Disposable: Which Should You Choose?

There isn't one option that's right for everyone.

Rechargeable hearing aids may be a better fit if you:

• Want a simple, low-maintenance routine

• Don't want to handle tiny batteries

• Prefer charging your devices overnight

• Stream frequently from your phone or other devices

Disposable batteries may be a better fit if you:

• Travel frequently or spend time away from electrical outlets

• Want the ability to quickly replace a dead battery

• Prefer not to rely on charging

• Like keeping extra batteries on hand for emergencies

What About Battery Life?

Battery life varies based on the hearing aid model, battery type, amount of hearing aid use, and how much you stream. Rechargeable hearing aids generally need to be charged every day, while disposable batteries may last anywhere from several days to a couple of weeks depending on the battery size and usage.

Your hearing care professional can help you determine which option will provide the best combination of convenience, reliability, and performance for your lifestyle.

💙 We're Here to Help!

Choosing between rechargeable and disposable batteries is just one of the many decisions that comes with selecting hearing aids. At Cardinal Hearing Center, we can help you compare your options and find hearing technology that fits your needs and everyday routine.

Have questions about hearing aid batteries or considering a new set of hearing aids? Contact Cardinal Hearing Center or stop by our office—we're happy to help!

📍 141 E Aurora Rd. Ste 3. Northfield, OH 44067
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

Tips for Adjusting to New Hearing Aids

Getting new hearing aids is an exciting step toward hearing better and staying connected with the people and moments you love. Like any new experience, it can take a little time for your brain to adjust to hearing sounds you may not have noticed in a while. Don't worry—this is completely normal!

1. Wear Them Every Day

The best way to adjust is to wear your hearing aids consistently. Start by wearing them for several hours each day and gradually increase your wear time until you can comfortably use them all day.

2. Start in Quiet Environments

Begin by listening in familiar, quiet places like your home. Once you feel more comfortable, slowly introduce busier settings such as restaurants, family gatherings, or shopping centers.

3. Be Patient with New Sounds

You may notice sounds like footsteps, running water, birds chirping, or the hum of appliances more than before. These sounds have likely always been there—your brain is simply relearning how to process them.

4. Practice Conversations

Spend time talking with family and friends in different environments. The more you listen and engage in conversation, the faster your brain adapts to your new hearing experience.

5. Don't Hesitate to Ask for Help

If something doesn't sound quite right or your hearing aids feel uncomfortable, contact your hearing care provider. Small adjustments can make a big difference in your comfort and hearing success.

We're Here to Help

Adjusting to hearing aids is a journey, and you don't have to do it alone. At Cardinal Hearing Center, we're committed to helping you get the most from your hearing aids. Whether you need a quick adjustment, cleaning, or have questions about your devices, our team is always happy to help.

Better hearing takes time—but with patience, practice, and the right support, you'll be enjoying clearer conversations and everyday sounds before you know it!

Getting used to new hearing aids is a process, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At Cardinal Hearing Center, our team is here to support you every step of the way—from your first fitting to ongoing adjustments and care.

If you recently received hearing aids or are struggling to adjust to your current devices, stop by our office or visit our Walk-In Clinic for help with cleanings, troubleshooting, pairing, and general hearing aid questions. We’re here to help you hear your best and stay connected to the moments that matter most!

Contact Cardinal Hearing Center today to schedule an appointment or stop in—we’d love to help you get the most out of your hearing experience.

📍 141 E Aurora Rd. Ste 3. Northfield, OH 44067
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

 Back to School Hearing Tips for Children and Parents

As a new school year begins, parents are busy shopping for supplies, organizing schedules, and making sure their children are ready to succeed. While vision screenings and school physicals are often part of the back-to-school routine, hearing health is another important factor that can directly impact a child’s learning, communication, and confidence in the classroom.

Even mild hearing difficulties can make it harder for children to follow instructions, participate in discussions, or keep up with their classmates. The good news is that parents can take simple steps to help protect and support their child’s hearing throughout the school year.

Watch for Signs of Hearing Difficulty

Children may not always realize they are having trouble hearing, and many will not complain about it. Parents and teachers should watch for signs that may indicate a child is struggling with their hearing, including:

• Frequently asking “what?” or asking for things to be repeated

• Turning up the volume on TVs, tablets, or headphones

• Difficulty following directions or instructions

• Sitting very close to screens or speakers

• Trouble hearing in noisy environments

• Speaking louder than expected

• Complaints that sounds are muffled or unclear

• Falling behind academically or appearing distracted

These signs do not always mean a child has hearing loss, but they may be a reason to schedule a hearing evaluation.

Schedule a Hearing Checkup

A child’s hearing can change over time due to ear infections, allergies, fluid buildup, noise exposure, or other conditions. Routine hearing screenings can help identify concerns early before they affect school performance.

A comprehensive hearing evaluation with an audiologist can provide a clearer picture of your child’s hearing health and determine whether additional support is needed.

Protect Little Ears From Loud Sounds

Children today are exposed to more noise than ever before through headphones, gaming systems, concerts, sporting events, and personal devices. Repeated exposure to loud sounds can contribute to permanent hearing damage.

Help protect your child’s hearing by encouraging safe listening habits:

• Follow the 60/60 rule: keep device volume around 60% or lower and limit listening time to about 60 minutes before taking a break.

• Use noise-limiting headphones designed for children.

• Encourage breaks from headphones and earbuds.

• Use hearing protection during loud activities such as sporting events, concerts, fireworks, or marching band performances.

Create a Hearing-Friendly Study Environment

A quiet and comfortable learning environment can make homework and studying easier, especially for children who have difficulty hearing in background noise.

Consider:

• Reducing background noise from TVs or other devices

• Making sure your child can clearly see your face when speaking

• Using good lighting so facial expressions and lip movements are easier to see

• Keeping communication clear and direct

For children with hearing loss, classroom accommodations such as preferential seating, assistive listening technology, or additional support from school staff may also improve their learning experience.

Encourage Children to Speak Up About Their Hearing

Children should feel comfortable telling parents, teachers, or caregivers when something does not sound right. Let them know it is okay to ask questions, request repetition, or ask for help when they need it.

Supporting open communication helps children feel confident advocating for their own hearing needs.

Don’t Ignore Ear Complaints

If your child complains about ear pain, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), pressure, muffled hearing, or difficulty understanding speech, it is important to have those concerns evaluated. Early attention can help prevent small issues from becoming bigger challenges.

Start the School Year With Healthy Hearing Habits

Good hearing plays an important role in a child’s ability to learn, communicate, and connect with others. By paying attention to possible warning signs, protecting hearing from loud sounds, and scheduling regular hearing checks, parents can help set their children up for a successful school year.

If you have concerns about your child’s hearing, consider scheduling a hearing evaluation with a hearing professional. A simple hearing check today can make a big difference in your child’s confidence and classroom success tomorrow.

📍 141 E Aurora Rd. Ste 3. Northfield, OH 44067
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

Can Stress Affect Tinnitus?

If you've ever noticed that the ringing, buzzing, or humming in your ears seems louder during stressful times, you're not imagining it. While stress doesn't typically cause tinnitus on its own, it can make existing tinnitus more noticeable and bothersome. Understanding the connection between stress and tinnitus can help you better manage both.

What Is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is the perception of sound without an external source. People often describe it as:

• Ringing

• Buzzing

• Hissing

• Roaring

• Clicking

• Whistling

For some, tinnitus is a mild annoyance. For others, it can interfere with concentration, sleep, and overall quality of life.

How Does Stress Affect Tinnitus?

When you're stressed, your body enters its "fight-or-flight" response. This causes the release of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, increasing your heart rate and making your brain more alert.

Unfortunately, this heightened state of awareness can also make your brain pay more attention to tinnitus. As a result:

• The ringing may seem louder.

• You may notice it more often.

• It can become harder to ignore.

• Sleep may become more difficult.

This often creates a frustrating cycle:

Stress increases tinnitus → tinnitus becomes more noticeable → increased frustration and anxiety → even more stress.

Breaking this cycle is an important part of tinnitus management.

Can Tinnitus Cause Stress?

Absolutely.

Many people who develop tinnitus experience emotional reactions such as:

• Anxiety

• Frustration

• Irritability

• Difficulty concentrating

• Depression

• Trouble sleeping

Living with constant noise can be exhausting, especially when it interferes with daily activities or restful sleep. This is why addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of tinnitus is so important.

Tips to Help Manage Stress-Related Tinnitus

While there isn't a universal cure for tinnitus, there are several strategies that may reduce its impact.

Practice Relaxation Techniques

Deep breathing, meditation, yoga, and mindfulness exercises can help calm your nervous system and reduce stress levels.

Stay Active

Regular physical activity improves circulation, reduces stress hormones, and boosts mood. Even a daily walk can make a difference.

Prioritize Sleep

Fatigue often makes tinnitus seem worse. Try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule and create a quiet, relaxing bedtime routine.

Use Background Sound

Soft music, a fan, white noise machine, or nature sounds can help mask tinnitus, especially at bedtime.

Limit Stress Triggers

Whenever possible, identify situations that increase your stress and develop healthy coping strategies.

Protect Your Hearing

Avoid prolonged exposure to loud noises and wear hearing protection when appropriate. Preventing additional hearing damage may help keep tinnitus from worsening.

When Should You See an Audiologist?

If tinnitus is persistent, worsening, or interfering with your daily life, it's a good idea to schedule a hearing evaluation.

An audiologist can:

• Check for hearing loss

• Identify possible underlying causes

• Discuss treatment and management options

• Recommend hearing aids or sound therapy if appropriate

• Provide education and resources to help you manage symptoms

In many cases, treating hearing loss can also reduce the perception of tinnitus.

You're Not Alone

Tinnitus affects millions of people, and while stress can make it feel more overwhelming, there are effective ways to manage both. Learning healthy stress-management techniques and seeking professional guidance can make a significant difference in your comfort and quality of life.

If you've been experiencing persistent ringing or buzzing in your ears, don't ignore it. A comprehensive hearing evaluation is the first step toward understanding what's causing your symptoms and finding solutions that work for you.

Schedule a Hearing Evaluation

At Cardinal Hearing Center, we're committed to helping patients better understand and manage tinnitus. Whether your symptoms are new or you've been living with tinnitus for years, our team can evaluate your hearing, answer your questions, and discuss personalized treatment options.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward better hearing and greater peace of mind.

📍 141 E Aurora Rd. Ste 3. Northfield, OH 44067
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

What Causes Muffled Hearing?

Have you ever felt like everyone around you is speaking through a wall or underwater? Muffled hearing is a common symptom that many people experience at some point. While it may seem like a minor inconvenience, it can sometimes signal an underlying hearing or medical condition that deserves attention.

The good news is that many causes of muffled hearing are treatable, especially when caught early. Let's explore some of the most common reasons your hearing may suddenly or gradually become muffled.

Earwax Buildup

One of the most frequent causes of muffled hearing is excessive earwax (cerumen). Earwax protects your ears, but when it builds up or becomes impacted, it can block sound from reaching the eardrum.

Common signs include:

• Muffled or reduced hearing

• A feeling of fullness in the ear

• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)

• Occasional dizziness

It's important not to insert cotton swabs or other objects into your ear, as this often pushes wax deeper. Instead, have your ears evaluated by a hearing healthcare professional.

Hearing Loss

Age-related hearing loss (presbycusis) and noise-induced hearing loss often develop gradually. Because the change is so slow, many people don't realize they're missing sounds until conversations become difficult to understand.

You may notice:

• People seem to mumble.

• Speech sounds unclear, especially in noisy places.

• You frequently ask others to repeat themselves.

• The television volume keeps getting louder.

Regular hearing evaluations can identify hearing loss early and help you stay connected with family and friends.

Fluid or an Ear Infection

Fluid behind the eardrum, often caused by a cold, allergies, or an ear infection, can temporarily reduce hearing. As the fluid builds up, sounds become dull or muffled.

Symptoms may include:

• Ear pain or pressure

• Popping sensations

• Temporary hearing changes

• Fever (with some infections)

Most infections improve with appropriate treatment, but persistent symptoms should be evaluated.

Sinus Congestion or Allergies

When you're congested from allergies or a cold, the Eustachian tubes—which help equalize pressure in your ears—can become blocked. This creates pressure that affects how sound travels.

Many people experience muffled hearing during:

• Seasonal allergies

• Colds

• Sinus infections

• Air travel

Once the congestion clears, hearing often returns to normal.

Sudden Hearing Loss

If your hearing becomes muffled suddenly in one ear without an obvious cause, it could be a medical emergency known as sudden sensorineural hearing loss.

This often occurs:

• Over several hours or overnight

• In only one ear

• With or without ringing in the ear

• Sometimes accompanied by dizziness

Prompt treatment offers the best chance of recovery. If this happens, seek medical care immediately.

Water Trapped in the Ear

After swimming or showering, water can become trapped in the ear canal, making sounds seem muffled. While this usually resolves on its own, trapped moisture can sometimes lead to swimmer's ear if it remains for too long.

Changes in Air Pressure

Flying, driving through mountains, or scuba diving can create pressure differences that temporarily affect hearing. Swallowing, yawning, or chewing gum often helps equalize the pressure.

When Should You See a Hearing Professional?

You should schedule an evaluation if:

• Muffled hearing lasts more than a day or two.

• The problem keeps coming back.

• You're having difficulty understanding conversations.

• You notice ringing in your ears.

• One ear hears significantly worse than the other.

• Your hearing changes suddenly.

A comprehensive hearing evaluation can help determine whether the issue is related to earwax, hearing loss, or another medical condition.

Don't Ignore Muffled Hearing

Muffled hearing isn't something you should simply "wait out," especially if it persists. Whether it's caused by something simple like earwax or something more significant like hearing loss, identifying the cause early can help prevent further problems and improve your quality of life.

At Cardinal Hearing Center, our experienced audiologists are here to help determine what's causing your hearing changes and recommend the best solution for your individual needs. If you've noticed muffled hearing, don't wait—schedule an evaluation and take the first step toward hearing clearly again.

📍 141 E Aurora Rd. Ste 3. Northfield, OH 44067
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com