Are you planning on investing in hearing aids?
If the answer is yes, it can feel overwhelming at first. There are several choices available, and the perplexing terminology doesn’t help.
That’s why we’re going to clarify the most common and significant terms, so when you talk with your hearing professional you’ll be prepared to pick out the best hearing aid for you.
Hearing loss and testing
High-frequency hearing loss – this is the most prevalent form of hearing loss. Patients with high-frequency hearing loss have the most trouble hearing higher frequency sounds, including the sounds of speech.
Sensorineural hearing loss – this form of hearing loss occurs when there is injury to the nerve cells of the inner ear. This is the most common form of permanent hearing loss triggered by being exposed to loud noise, the aging process, genetics, or other medical conditions.
Bilateral hearing loss – hearing loss in both ears, which could be symmetrical (the equivalent degree of loss in both ears) or asymmetrical (varied degrees of loss in each ear). Bilateral hearing loss is as a rule best treated with two hearing aids.
Audiogram – the graph that provides a visual representation of your hearing testing results. The vertical axis measures decibels (volume) and the horizontal axis measures frequencies (pitch). The hearing professional captures the lowest decibel level that you can hear at each frequency. If you require higher volumes to hear higher frequencies, your audiogram will show a sequence of high-frequency hearing loss.
Decibel (dB) – the unit utilized to measure sound level or intensity. Routine conversation registers at around 60 decibels, and sustained direct exposure to any sound over 80 decibels could cause irreversible hearing loss. Seeing that the scale is logarithmic, an increase of 6-10 decibels doubles the volume of the sound.
Frequency – represents pitch as measured in hertz. Visualize moving up the keys on a piano, from left to right (low-frequency/pitch to high-frequency/pitch).
Threshold of hearing – The lowest decibel level that can be heard at each individual frequency.
Degree of hearing loss – Hearing loss can be classified as mild (26-40 dB loss), moderate (41-55), severe (71-90), or profound (91+).
Tinnitus – a relentless ringing or buzzing in the ears when no external sound is present. Typically a sign of hearing damage or loss.
Hearing aid styles
Digital hearing aid – hearing aids that include a digital microchip, utilized to custom-program the hearing aids to match each individual’s distinct hearing loss.
Hearing aid style – the type of hearing aid defined by its size and position relative to the ear. Main styles include behind-the-ear, in-the-ear, and in-the-canal.
Behind the ear (BTE) hearing aids – the majority of hearing aid parts are enclosed within a case that fits behind the ear, attached to an earmold by a clear plastic tube. Mini-BTE hearing aids are also available.
In the ear (ITE) hearing aids – the hearing aid components are enclosed within a case that fits in the outside part of the ear.
In the canal (ITC) hearing aids – the hearing aid parts are contained in a case that fits inside of the ear canal. Completely-in-the-canal (CIC) hearing aids are also obtainable that are nearly invisible when worn.
Hearing aid parts
Earmold – a piece of plastic, acrylic, or other pliable material that is formed to the curves of the patient’s ears, used for the fitting of hearing aids.
Microphone – the hearing aid part that picks up external sound and converts the sound waves into an electrical signal.
Digital signal processor – a specialized microprocessor within the hearing aid that can adjust and enhance sound.
Amplifier – the component of the hearing aid that boosts the volume of sound.
Speaker – the hearing aid component that supplies the magnified sound to the ear.
Wireless antenna – available in specific hearing aids, enabling wireless connectivity to compatible equipment such as phones and music players.
Hearing aid advanced features
Variable programming – hearing aid programming that permits the individual to adjust sound settings depending on the environment (e.g. at home versus in a chaotic restaurant).
Directional microphones – microphones that can focus on sound coming from a specified location while minimizing background noise.
Telecoils – a coil placed within the hearing aid that allows it to connect with wireless signals originating from telephones, assistive listening devices, and hearing loops installed in public venues.
Noise reduction – functionality that helps the hearing aid to distinguish speech sounds from background noise, which results in the augmentation of speech and the suppression of distracting noise.
Bluetooth technology – permits the hearing aid to connect wirelessly with a number of devices, including mobile phones, computers, audio players, and other compatible products.
Uncertain of which features you need, or which you could live without? Let us help you discover the ideal hearing aid for your distinct requirements. Give us a call today!