Hearing problems are generally classified as conductive or "sensorineural". It is conductive when there is problem of sound transmission to the outer or middle ear. Hearing aids with analog technology amplify sound and can readily solve conductive hearing loss problems. But with sensorineural loss, you get something about sound processing problem, caused by cochlear or auditory nerve impairment. This problem calls for the use of digital hearing aids, which employ digital technology.
Hearing aids that use analog technology amplifies sound by means of magnification of sound waves. The products in the market generally have them as conventional or programmable models. Conventional models feature adjustable volume control in its circuits, while programmable models allow for more flexibility. While they both have adjustable controls, the latter has more fine-tuning capabilities in terms of sound amplification.
Digital hearing aids use digital technology and process sound for optimum clarity and quality. Each model is tailored on an individual's hearing problems. It features excellent reduction or cancellation of noise, feedback and distortion. After the instrument receives sound waves, it performs millions of instant calculations to convert sound to digital format with digital technology, then as analog sound recognized by the person.
Hearing aids vary in size and shape. But they generally come down to four basic classifications. Behind the ear or BTE models have a plastic casing that houses the electronic parts used for amplification of sound. As the name says, it is worn behind the ear and has a tube that connects to an ear mold for fitting in the ear canal. They are easy to use and commonly recommended for children.
ITE's are also custom made devices that fit inside the outer ear. They can help on a much broader coverage when it comes to hearing loss, from mild to severe. ITC's are much smaller and go further back into bottom half of the external ear. They are almost unnoticeable once worn, and are used for mild to moderate hearing loss issues.
Completely in the canal or CIC models are considered the smallest in size and are virtually invisible to other people since it literally fits further inside your ear canal. But it does require having an ear canal opening large enough to fit this device. They are best for mild to moderate hearing loss.
With so many hearing aids in the market, you ask yourself, where do I start? This is a question that is very difficult to answer since every individual with hearing loss has different needs based on the degree of hearing loss they have, their way of life, and the mode of communication they experience everyday.
With that being said, the better question might be: Which one is best for me? Your friend might say that he has the best one out there, but it may not be the best for you. Only by undergoing hearing tests and thorough evaluation of your hearing loss problems can you get the right instrument for yourself.
Visiting a doctor, an audiologist, or a hearing instrument specialist can help you in choosing from a wide range of hearing aids that's right for you. You can find hearing tests and evaluation centers near your place or even online that will pinpoint what your needs are. Only then will you be able to make your decision from the wide variety of analog and digital hearing aids.
Related posts: