Hearing Aids: Rediscovering the Symphony of Sound

What is a hearing aid?

A hearing aid is an electronic device, typically small and worn in or behind the ear, that amplifies sound to assist those with hearing loss. By utilizing a hearing aid, individuals can actively engage in daily activities and better communicate in both quiet and noisy environments. Surprisingly, only 20% of individuals who could benefit from a hearing aid actually use one.

The hearing aid is composed of three essential components: a microphone, amplifier, and speaker. Sound is captured by the microphone and converted into electrical signals, which are then amplified before being directed to the ear through a speaker. This process allows for improved hearing ability.

How can hearing aids help?

Hearing aids are most commonly used to improve hearing and speech understanding for individuals with sensorineural hearing loss caused by damage to the inner ear's hair cells. This damage can be due to various factors such as disease, aging, or exposure to loud noise or certain medications.

Based on domain expertise, a hearing aid amplifies sound vibrations as they enter the ear. The larger vibrations are then detected by surviving hair cells and converted into neural signals, eventually reaching the brain. The severity of hearing loss is directly related to the amount of hair cell damage, requiring more amplification from a hearing aid to compensate. However, practical limitations exist in the amount of amplification a hearing aid can provide. Furthermore, excessive inner ear damage may render a hearing aid ineffective, even with significant amplification.

Where can I get help with my hearing loss?

Seeking information or advice about hearing loss? You have choices. Without seeking an examination from a hearing health professional, you can now purchase over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids. These aids are meant for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss. For more severe or complex cases, a hearing health professional can provide prescription hearing aids or other necessary devices.

Are there different styles of hearing aids?

There are three primary categories of hearing aids. These categories vary in size, placement on or inside the ear, and level of sound amplification (refer to image).

1. BTE hearing aids have a rigid plastic case that is worn behind the ear. This case is connected to a plastic earmold that fits in the outer ear. The electronic components are housed in the case behind the ear, and sound is transmitted through the earmold into the ear. BTE aids are suitable for individuals of any age with mild to severe hearing impairment.

The product description refers to a new type of BTE aid, known as an open-fit hearing aid. This small device fits completely behind the ear, with only a narrow tube inserted into the ear canal. This unique design allows the ear canal to remain open, making it a suitable option for those who may experience earwax buildup. Additionally, the open-fit hearing aid may appeal to individuals who do not want the sensation of their voice being "plugged up".

2. In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids are used for mild to severe hearing loss and are designed to fit completely inside the outer ear. The case that holds the electronic components is typically made of hard plastic, but some ITE aids may have additional features like a telecoil. A telecoil is a small magnetic coil that allows the user to receive sound through the hearing aid's circuitry instead of the microphone, making it easier to have conversations on the phone or hear in public places with induction loop systems. Because the casings may need frequent replacements as a child's ear grows, ITE aids are not typically worn by young children.

3. The merchant offers two styles of canal aids: the in-the-canal (ITC) hearing aid and the completely-in-canal (CIC) hearing aid. These aids are specifically designed to fit the size and shape of the ear canal, providing discreet and effective solutions for mild to moderately severe hearing loss.

Due to their small size, canal aids can present challenges for individuals when it comes to adjusting and removing them. They also have less room for batteries and other features, like a telecoil. As a result, they are typically not suitable for young children or individuals with severe to profound hearing loss, as their reduced size may restrict their amplification strength and sound level.

Do all hearing aids work the same way?

Different types of electronics are used in hearing aids, namely analog and digital. The functionality of these electronics varies.

Analog hearing aids utilize electric signals to amplify sound waves. These custom-built aids are programmed by the manufacturer based on recommendations from your audiologist. They can also be programmed by an audiologist using a computer, allowing for different listening environments. Additionally, analog circuitry can be incorporated into all types of hearing aids. While typically less expensive than digital aids, analog hearing aids offer multiple programs and settings for different environments.

Digital hearing aids use numerical codes, similar to a computer's binary code, to convert sound waves and amplify them. This code also includes data about the sound's pitch and volume, allowing for specialized programming to amplify certain frequencies. The use of digital circuitry provides audiologists with increased flexibility in adjusting the aid to the needs of the user and specific listening environments. These advanced aids can even be programmed to focus on sounds from a particular direction. Digital circuitry can be applied to all types of hearing aids.

Which hearing aid will work best for me?

The most suitable hearing aid for an individual is determined by the type and extent of their hearing loss. In cases where both ears are affected, it is often advised to use two hearing aids as they offer a more organic signal to the brain. Additionally, binaural hearing can improve speech comprehension and sound location.

Choose a hearing aid that fits your needs and lifestyle, with guidance from your audiologist. Keep in mind that prices can vary greatly, from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. While style and features can impact the cost, it's important to not rely solely on price when selecting the best hearing aid for you. A higher price does not always equate to a better fit for your needs.

Choose a hearing aid that is convenient and user-friendly. It will not completely restore your hearing, but with use, it can improve your sound perception and ability to locate sound sources. Consider the warranty coverage, maintenance and repair schedules and fees, available upgrades, and the company's reputation for excellence in both product and customer service.