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Cook Hearing & Balance
Cook Hearing & Balance
5.0
James Barta
James Barta
01:51 22 Jan 18
This is my first visit to Cook Hearing. Dr. Sperino is the best. I have had hearing aids from another provider for the past 3 years. The thoroughness of the diagnosis and details discussions of the results and available options are second to none. I believe that I found a provider and staff dedicated to my best interests, and that I have no need to look any further.
Jose Vega
Jose Vega
18:48 19 Oct 17
I flew my parents to Austin from Puerto Rico due to Hurricane Maria. My Dad lost his hearing aids during the hurricane so we needed to get him new ones. We contacted Cook Hearing and from day one they were very helpful and gracious dealing with our ordeal. Within a couple of days my dad was able to get a hearing test and purchase hearing aids with Cook at a reasonable price. We cannot thank them enough for all they did for our family. They are highly recommended.
Ron Russak
Ron Russak
17:28 11 Sep 17
You may have heard Lori's commercials. I can tell you from experience that they know what they are doing and really care about each and every patient. The latest Resound hearing aids are very high tech. They can adjust as your environment changes. They integrate into your phone for even more control and a custom hearing experience. I highly recommend Cook Hearing and Balance.
Brenda Jennings
Brenda Jennings
16:21 05 Aug 17
I'm not even sure where to begin. My Husband's hearing has been steadily getting worse over the last few years, and even though he is only in his 40's, his hearing has dipped down into the profound hearing loss range. His old pair of hearing aids were unable to keep up with this amount hearing loss. Without hearing aids, he isn't aware that I'm speaking to him unless I tap his arm and get his attention. I then look at him and speak clearly, because we have found that he is able to read lips quite well. We had a blessing in disguise when his old hearing aids went missing. We researched online and found Cook Hearing and Balance.To say that this experience has been amazing is an understatement. From the beginning, Anne, his audiologist, took TIME to evaluate, and educate both Rusty and I on our options for the best possible solution for him. She then fitted him for a pair of hearing aids, put them in his ears, programmed them, and turned them on. I watched my husband's face as he heard words and sounds that he hasn't been able to hear in years...clearly. His face showed surprise and shock. He smiled and a few words he RARELY says slipped out. Anne walked quietly around the room. She turned on a water faucet. He could hear it. She tore a piece of paper. He could hear it. He started asking him unrelated, random questions in a quiet tone while walking behind him, and he could answer ALL of her questions... without asking her to repeat anything:)Rusty cried. I cried. And she was even visibly moved. These people truly care!!!That night we went out to dinner with my dad at a busy Mexican food restaurant. He was able to hear the conversation over the noise in the room. Lori, the owner, and Anne have worked with us and our insurance company to make sure that the purchase was attainable and went smoothly. They have been sooo encouraging and positive. Everyone on staff has been so kind....from the receptionist, to his audiologist (Anne), and of course the owner, Lori. They have definitely earned loyal customers and I highly recommend them to everyone. (I even gave my dad their name)Brenda Jennings
Maurice Aguirre
Maurice Aguirre
15:32 15 Feb 18
Family owned and oriented business that truly puts their patients first.
Crystie Ham
Crystie Ham
04:38 26 Jan 17
I cannot say enough good things about Cook Hearing and Balance. They have been helping me for years with my hearing aides. They always work to find the best technology that works for what I need. And when I have trouble, they are quick to help with any issues. To top it all off, the staff is very knowledgeable and super friendly! I would not go anywhere else for my hearing aide needs!
Rusty Jennings
Rusty Jennings
21:07 26 Jul 17
I had the most amazing experience coming to Cook hearing and balance. Right away I felt like family. They didn't rush me they took plenty of time with me. I wish I had known about them years ago. I love these guys.
107 aas-tx
107 aas-tx
14:29 30 Aug 18
After years of not being able to hear conversations in restaurants or at work, I finally went to Laurie at Cook Hearing and Balance. The entire experience was above and beyond all expectations. Fantastic, professional service, friendly staff and a exceptional products. Don't wait, go see them and hear again.
Eric Johnson
Eric Johnson
10:05 05 Nov 18
In 2005, I lost more than 50% of my high frequency hearing due to a an episode of Autoimmune Inner Ear Disease. Steroid injections through my ear drums by my ENT doctor stopped further loss, but could not recover it. I got my first over-the-ear instruments in 2007 from Cook Hearing after realizing my speech interpretation was so bad that I was becoming socially isolated. I wore the original set for 5 years, but the wind noise prohibited full-time use.In 2013 I upgraded to new in-the-ear technology with custom molded instruments. The technological improvements were quickly realized with better noise cancellation and I was more comfortable wearing them because they were hidden from view. I wore these instruments for the next 5 years until I began to notice my speech was not optimal and my ear canals were more frequently irritated with them in.This year 2018, I made the decision to be retested with a consultation for the opportunity to upgrade again to latest technology. Dr. Sperino listened to my concerns and provided a through examination. With her considered recommendation I purchased, new Signia Silk Nx instruments. These are lighter, smaller and ready-to-wear. With a phone application I can change programs for different environments and always control the volume. With two office visits for adjustments, I can report that I have the best quality hearing life in the past 13 years!Today I can work in a noisy environment, socialize in any setting and understand conversation without feeling anxious. I have regained the desire to listen to music with lyrical comprehension. I am fearless to meet new people and challenge myself to speak in public. I hear and understand sounds today I have not been able to for the past decade.Before more life slips away as a hearing impaired individual, make your appointment today! If you have instruments 5 or more years old, check out the latest technology and hear what you are missing in your life! Remember the loved ones in your life deserve to be heard and you can treat them to your better hearing. Don't delay regaining your hearing comprehension. Visit Dr. Sperino soon!
Rob Lederman
Rob Lederman
00:35 28 Nov 18
I have been a customer for 6+ years. I started going there when there was only 4 people and the great customer services has not changed as of today. Great service and prices. Laurie and team get the work done and are great at it!!
TL Morgan
TL Morgan
01:22 21 Dec 18
Dr. Elizabeth Sperino worked with my wife and I. She was extremely patient and thorough with our hearing concerns. She fitted my wife with a customized pair of hearing aids and they fit perfectly the very first time she helped with installation. Took the time to download the app on her phone and went through the step by step process on how to use them. Thank you Elizabeth, for a job well done!
Brendan Hinman
Brendan Hinman
18:21 02 Jan 19
This place is life changing. Dr. Sperino is caring and attentive, patient, and extremely helpful. The staff was wonderful (they were also attentive, and quick to assist). I’ve suffered from tinnitus for decades and this was the first time I’ve felt any relief. I didn’t expect hearing aids to be the solution yet now very rarely do I hear that high pitched noise that’s been a constant companion for so long. I can say without shame I cried in that office.
Belinda Johnson
Belinda Johnson
02:22 08 Jan 19
Great place good Dr. For hearing aids
Caleb Santana
Caleb Santana
23:37 14 Jan 19
Simply the greatest hearing aide office I have ever been to, they offer a wide range of services at an affordable cost!!
Bob Crimm
Bob Crimm
06:03 16 Jan 19
Lori has always taken great care for my mother's hearing and the staff is so nice to our family.
J.T. Kelley
J.T. Kelley
19:53 07 Feb 19
Real Ear Measurement is the only proven test to evaluate if your hearing aids are matched with your hearing prescription. I learned how important Real Ear Measurement is from watching Dr Cliff Olsen on YouTube (check it out) Cook Hearing and Balance (Cedar Park) offers this most important test. My hearing is excellent and effortless again. Dr Elizabeth Sperino exceeded my expectations with her knowledge and expertise. What a professional absolute top notch clinic. I’m thrilled I found you. Sincerely, JT Kelley
Robert Biral
Robert Biral
21:28 15 Jul 19
I purchased my first set of hearing aids for a big box store. Thought I was getting a good deal. Anyway, When it was time to upgrade my hearing aids. I decided to go to Cook Hearing and Balance.. I should have gone there for my first set. What a difference in my overall experience. The staff is always courteous, even when I just drop in for an adjustment. It's not unusual to see Lori Cook greeting patients. Dr Sperino performed my hearing test. We worked together to select and adjust the hearing aids to best improve my hearing as possible. I can't say enough good things about her and Cooks Hearing and Balance.
Tom Combs
Tom Combs
01:59 30 Aug 19
Excellent customer service Great prices on major brand hearing aids
Tom Combs
Tom Combs
01:59 30 Aug 19
Excellent customer service Great prices on major brand hearing aids
Yvonne Newman
Yvonne Newman
00:25 17 Sep 19
I was a walkin with a hearing aid that stopped working. They fixed the reciever and sent this happy person home. No charge.
marsha moyer
marsha moyer
13:52 02 Nov 19
Dr. Sperino is the most caring and genuine health care professional I have ever meet. In fact everyone I have had contact with at Cook Hearing are kind, professional, and extremely customer oriented. My mother is the patient. She is elderly and has had hearing problems for many years. Consequently, we have had experiences with multiple hearing companies. By far, Cook Hearing is the best!!!
Candy Skinner
Candy Skinner
21:08 06 Nov 19
I'm so impressed with the professionalism and kindness of Dr. Sperino at Cook hearing. I was so grateful for her patience and genuine desire to make sure I had the best device for me. The office staff is also caring and attentive, and I can't say enough good things about my experience! Thank you Cook Hearing!
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Home » Education » Articles » Hearing Loss » Why Is Hearing Protection So Important?

March 31, 2017 In Articles, Hearing Loss

Why Is Hearing Protection So Important?

Would you skateboard without a helmet? What about swim laps without goggles? Of course not. These devices have been specially designed to protect you, while enabling you to pursue your hobbies. Did you know your ears could also benefit from protection at a loud event, like a rock concert? Have you heard of hearing protection?

One of the most common types of hearing loss is called noise-induced hearing loss. It is caused by exposure to harmful sounds. Noise levels are measured in decibels (dB). Exposure to sound over 85 dB (such as a motorcycle) can cause damage within eight hours, exposure to sound over 100 dB (such as a helicopter) can cause damage within 15 minutes and exposure to a sound over 120 dB (such as a jet engine) can cause damage instantly.

hearing protection

Hearing Protection

But good news! According to your local Georgetown area audiologist, noise induced hearing loss can easily be prevented. How? By wearing earplugs. If you are in a pinch, earplugs are available in most pharmacies. While there are plenty of fine choices available off the shelf, your ears are unique. A one-size-fits-all earplug can never compete with a custom-made set.

Audiologists create custom earmolds from impressions taken of your ear canal and concha (the outer bowl-shaped portion of your ear). They adhere perfectly to the contours of your ears, providing a superior fit and protection. Custom molds aren’t just made for earplugs; they can be used in a variety of products including headphones and earpieces.

Custom Earmolds

Custom earmolds are generally made from one of three materials: acrylic, vinyl or silicone. Each has their pros and cons.

Acrylic Earmolds

Acrylic molds have been around the longest. Hard and durable, they are resistant to shrinking and breakage and are the easiest to repair or re-mold. Acrylic molds are simple to insert and remove, and they are easily cleaned using mild detergents. Their biggest disadvantage is their lack of flexibility. They can be difficult to place into narrow or small ear canals, especially those of children. Acrylic molds are also prone to sound leakage and feedback, particularly when the jaw is in motion (e.g., chewing).

Vinyl Earmolds

Vinyl molds are made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and fall in the middle in terms of hardness. They are softer than acrylic molds, making them a better choice for children and older individuals, and they are fairly easy to insert. A better seal translates to clearer sound for high-gain musical instruments. On the down side, vinyl molds tend to shrink, harden and discolor over time, which means they need to be replaced more often. Because of the manufacturing process, which involves boiling in a saline solution, vinyl molds are not recommended for people with allergies.

Silicone Earmolds

Silicone molds are the softest of all varieties. They are extremely flexible and comfortable, provide a tight seal for excellent sound quality and protection and are very durable. They maintain their shape and size over time, and are available in a variety of bright colors and designs, as well as flesh-colored tones. Their flexibility and softness can also be disadvantageous; silicone molds are difficult to insert, especially when new, and are a poor choice for individuals with soft or flaccid ears.

For more information on how to protect your ears, contact your local Cedar Park area audiologist.

custom earmolds hearing loss hearing protection
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