By amplifying nearby sounds, hearing aids have continually brought relief to sufferers of hearing loss. It consists of a microphone, amplifier and speaker, all contained in a single small electronic instrument.
They achieve a greater ability to participate in activities and interact with people on a normal level. It's a pity that only a small percentage of the people who would benefit from a hearing aid actually get to wear them. With only a small percentage (around 10%) of hearing loss cases benefiting from medical treatment, hearing aids are essential for the majority of sufferers.
There are many different types of hearing aids available today, depending on the individual needs of the patient. The devices available can be easily grouped by the differences in how they are worn.
Devices that are worn inside the ear canal and are therefore unnoticeable, are referred to as Canal Aids. By customizing the size and shape, canal aids become more comfortable to wear. These devices are often used by patients with varying degrees of hearing loss from mild cases to some of the more severe.
Other devices fit in the outer ear and are refereed to as In the Ear devices. These types of devices are discrete but not as unnoticeable as the ear canal devices. Patients with mild or severe hearing difficulties can use these devices and they are also easier to adjust than the canal aid devices. One feature of these devices is often a adjustable volume control and they can also be used with a telecoil to make telephone conversations clearer.
The category of hearing aids known as 'behind the ear' aids have an earmold that tucks in the back of the ear. The sound is amplified in the earmold behind the ear and then is sent to the speaker. Although more visible than the other types of devices, these can be effective for helping people with more severe hearing problems. These devices though are more likely to have feedback issues causing a high-pitched whistle sound to be heard.
Modern hearing aids available can be found using either analog or digital technologies. The two types of technology are analog and digital.
Analog devices work by converting the sound waves in the air to electrical signals. an audiologist can program an analog device to fit the needs of the patient. It is also possible for the person wearing the hearing aid to make minor adjustments which will benefit them in certain locations.
Digital audio technology is the more expensive of the two but does make it easier to customize the sound reproduction of the hearing aid. Digital audio can be of a much higher quality with higher clarity and less distortion from background noises. Digital hearing aids also tend to be more comfortable and convenient, because sound levels adjust automatically as the environment changes.
The more modern devices have been proven to be more practical and comfortable, improving the lives of all of the people that wear them. A professional audiologist can help patients get a device that's just right for them. By getting the hearing aid that works best for you it is possible to improve the quality of your hearing and give you the opportunity to get on with more without your hearing or your device holding you back.
