Hearing aids are devices that make sound louder to help people with hearing difficulties. Most hearing aids contain a microphone, an amplifier, a mini-receiver, and batteries. Hearing aids differ in their technology, design, and features. Keep reading to understand more about the variety of hearing aids.
People who have trouble hearing may need an audiologist near me. Audiologists help prevent, diagnose, and treat hearing disorders. They fit patients with hearing aids. Otolaryngologists are doctors who provide care and treatment for the ear, neck, throat, and nose. Otolaryngologists and audiologists often work together to provide comprehensive services for patients with hearing loss.
Aids Behind the Ear
With hearing aids that are behind the ear, most parts of the aid are contained in a small plastic case that sits behind the ear. The case is connected to an earpiece by a clear tube. This hearing aid is often used with children since the child can change the ear mold as they grow. These aids are easy to clean and sturdy.
Aids on the Ear
Aids on the ear are also called mini behind-the-ear aids. They fit behind and on the ear, but they are much smaller. A small, almost invisible tube connects the aid to the ear canal. On-the-ear aids are more comfortable and have less feedback. They also are not as noticeable as traditional behind-the-ear aids.
Aids in the Ear
All parts of “in-the-ear” hearing aids are in a shell that goes in the outer part of the ear. These hearing aids are larger than some other hearing aids and are simpler for some people to handle.
Aids in the Canal
Aids can be placed partly or completely in the ear canal. These are the smallest hearing aids available. They are in tiny cases that fit inside the ear canal. Because they are so small, they are often the cosmetic choice. Their size does make it difficult for some people to handle and adjust.
Analog vs. Digital Hearing Aids
Analog hearing aids amplify all sounds the same way, by making sound waves louder. Sometimes analog hearing aids can have programs with different settings for quiet places, noisy places, and large areas. Wearers can change the settings by pushing a button.
Digital hearing aids have the same features as analog hearing aids, but they change sound waves into digital signals and make an exact copy of the sound. This digitization allows more complex sound processing and can make it easier to hear when there is background noise. Today, digital hearing aids are the standard. Most people do not even consider analog aids.
Additional Features
Hearing aids come with many different features. Some have a directional microphone to help the wearer in noisy environments. Others have a telephone switch that lets wearers use them more easily to talk on the phone. Another popular feature is direct audio input which allows wearers to connect to a TV, CD player, or radio.
Hearing aids have come a long way from where they started. Finding a good specialist is the first step in finding the best hearing aids.
