Are there any risks with OTC hearing aids? Yes, as with any medical device, there are risks. If you do not have a hearing test performed by a doctor prior to buying OTC, you may be unprepared to use them properly. The max output on the devices may cause hearing loss if you do not require a high level (a doctor can tell you your max output level via a test). Additionally, OTC hearing aids may pose a risk to minors. Creed adds, "I worry about kids getting them. The FDA is not requiring an ID to purchase." She says...