WNC Audiology provides expert hearing care to help you stay connected to the sounds that matter most.
From comprehensive hearing evaluations, hearing aid fittings, tinnitus evaluation and treatment, and excellent after-care services, our Asheville, NC, audiologists are here to support you with compassionate and personalized hearing care.
Hearing Evaluations
At WNC Audiology, your path to better hearing begins with a detailed hearing evaluation.
Our Asheville audiologists use safe, non-invasive tests to understand how well you hear and to identify any areas of concern.
Which hearing test is the best?
The right test depends on your needs. When necessary, a comprehensive evaluation may be performed. Some of the most common hearing tests include:
- Pure-tone audiometry
- Speech audiometry
- Tympanometry
- Auditory brainstem response (ABR)
Can I test my own hearing?
There are online tests and phone apps that can give you a basic idea of your hearing ability. However, they don’t compare to the accuracy of a professional exam. For the clearest picture of your hearing health, a test with an audiologist is always the best choice.
Are online hearing tests any good?
Online screenings can be helpful as a first step, but they are limited. They only measure whether you can detect tones through headphones or speakers. They can’t determine the cause or type of hearing loss, measure speech clarity, or uncover underlying health issues.
At WNC Audiology, we provide accurate, in-depth evaluations so you can hear and live your best.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss Evaluation & Treatment
Sensorineural hearing loss is the most common type of permanent hearing loss, often caused by aging, noise exposure, or damage to the inner ear.
At WNC Audiology, we provide complete evaluations to confirm whether sensorineural loss is present and discuss treatment options that fit your lifestyle. While this condition cannot usually be reversed, hearing aids and other solutions can make a dramatic difference in how you hear and communicate every day.
Tinnitus Support and Treatment
If you hear ringing, buzzing, or humming in your ears, you may be experiencing tinnitus.
At WNC Audiology, our team provides through tinnitus support to identify possible causes and contributing factors. We then develop personalized care plans, which may include sound therapy, hearing aids with tinnitus features, or relaxation strategies. These can lessen the impact of tinnitus and improve your quality of life.
Should I go to an audiologist for tinnitus?
At WNC Audiology, we look for underlying triggers, determine if tinnitus is linked to hearing loss, and guide you toward relief options tailored to your needs.
Is tinnitus a brain problem?
Tinnitus often begins with changes in the ear, but the brain plays a role too. When sound signals decrease due to hearing loss, the brain may create phantom sounds to “fill in the gap.” Treatments like hearing aids, sound therapy, or counseling are designed to retrain the brain and reduce how noticeable tinnitus becomes.
What happens if tinnitus is not treated?
Untreated tinnitus can increase stress, interfere with sleep, and make it harder to focus. If it’s tied to hearing loss, ignoring it may also make communication more difficult over time. By addressing tinnitus early, you can reduce its effects and improve your daily comfort.
Hearing Aid Services
At WNC Audiology, we’re with you every step of the way. From your first hearing evaluation to ongoing adjustments and support, our Asheville, NC audiologists ensure your devices perform at their best. We’re here to help you enjoy clearer hearing and a more confident, connected life.
Hearing Aid Fittings
Hearing aids aren’t one-size-fits-all. A precise fitting is essential for both comfort and performance.
Our audiologists at WNC Audiology take careful measurements, including real-ear verification, to make sure your devices are tuned perfectly to your hearing needs. This attention to detail gives you the best possible sound quality in every listening environment.
How long does it take to get fitted for a hearing aid?
A fitting typically takes one to two hours. After your evaluation, we’ll review your results, recommend suitable devices, and program them to your unique hearing profile. We’ll also teach you how to use and care for your devices. Follow-up visits are scheduled to fine-tune your fit and help you adjust comfortably.
How does an audiologist fit a hearing aid?
After reviewing your hearing test results, an audiologist selects the right device and programs it to meet your specific needs. Real-ear measurements confirm the amplification is correct for your ear canal. The physical fit is then adjusted for comfort, and you’ll be shown how to insert, remove, clean, and maintain your devices.
Can you get a hearing aid without a test?
Yes, over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids are available, but they lack the personalized fitting and support you’ll receive from an audiologist. At WNC Audiology, we recommend starting with a professional hearing evaluation to ensure you get the right solution and to rule out any medical concerns.
Hearing Aid Repair and Cleaning
If your hearing aids aren’t working properly, WNC Audiology can help with quick and reliable service. Our audiologists can complete many repairs in-office to restore your devices to peak performance.
What are the common problems that require hearing aid repair?
Some of the most common issues include:
- Weak or no sound
- Distorted or fuzzy audio
- Feedback or whistling
- Physical damage
How long does it take to repair a hearing aid?
Minor fixes, such as cleaning or replacing parts, can often be handled the same day. More complex issues that require manufacturer service may take several days to two weeks.
Can I fix my hearing aid at home?
Simple troubleshooting (like checking batteries, cleaning filters, or following the manufacturer’s guide), can sometimes solve minor issues. But more complex problems should be left to professionals. If home fixes don’t work, bring your devices to WNC Audiology for expert care.
Hearing Protection
Noise exposure can permanently harm your hearing, often without you realizing it. At WNC Audiology, we provide a variety of hearing protection options so you can safely enjoy work, hobbies, and recreation. We specialize in providing hearing protection for hunters and musicians.
Why should I use hearing protection?
Loud sounds can cause permanent hearing loss. Using the right protection reduces your risk and helps preserve your hearing health for years to come.
Are custom earplugs better than store-bought ones?
Yes. Custom earplugs are molded to your unique ears, offering better comfort, fit, and protection compared to generic options. They’re especially valuable for musicians, swimmers, and people exposed to loud environments.
Can I still hear people talking with earplugs in?
Absolutely. Many custom earplugs are designed to reduce harmful noise levels while allowing speech to remain clear. This makes them ideal for anyone who needs to protect their hearing but still communicate easily.