Are you looking into investing in hearing aids?
If so, it can feel overwhelming at first. There are countless options available, and the confusing terminology doesn’t help.
That’s why we’re going to explain the most common and important terms, so when you talk with your hearing professional you’ll be prepared to find the ideal hearing aid for you.
Hearing loss and testing
High-frequency hearing loss – this is the most commonly encountered form of hearing loss. Individuals with high-frequency hearing loss have the most difficulty hearing higher frequency sounds, including the sounds of speech.
Sensorineural hearing loss – this type of hearing loss comes about when there is injury to the nerve cells of the inner ear. This is the most common form of permanent hearing loss caused by being exposed to loud noise, aging, genetics, or other medical conditions.
Bilateral hearing loss – hearing loss in both ears, which may be symmetrical (the equivalent level of loss in both ears) or asymmetrical (varied levels of loss in each ear). Bilateral hearing loss is normally best treated with two hearing aids.
Audiogram – the graph which provides a visual depiction of your hearing testing results. The vertical axis measures decibels (volume) and the horizontal axis measures frequencies (pitch). The hearing practitioner documents the lowest decibel level you are able to hear at each frequency. If you necessitate higher volumes to hear higher frequencies, your audiogram will show a sequence of high-frequency hearing loss.
Decibel (dB) – the unit used to measure sound level or strength. Routine conversation registers at about 60 decibels, and prolonged direct exposure to any sound in excess of 80 decibels could lead to permanent hearing loss. Seeing as the scale is logarithmic, an increase of 6-10 decibels doubles the volume of the sound.
Frequency – represents pitch as measured in hertz. Imagine 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 perceived at each frequency.
Degree of hearing loss – Hearing loss is generally categorized as mild (26-40 dB loss), moderate (41-55), severe (71-90), or profound (91+).
Tinnitus – a continual ringing or buzzing in the ears when no exterior sound is present. Normally a sign of hearing damage or loss.
Hearing aid styles
Digital hearing aid – hearing aids that include a digital microchip, used to custom-program the hearing aids to match each individual’s distinctive hearing loss.
Hearing aid style – the type of hearing aid characterized by its size and position relative to the ear. Main styles consist of behind-the-ear, in-the-ear, and in-the-canal.
Behind the ear (BTE) hearing aids – the majority of hearing aid components are enclosed within a case that fits behind the ear, connected 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 contained within a case that fits in the exterior 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 practically invisible when worn.
Hearing aid parts
Earmold – a piece of plastic, acrylic, or other soft material that is molded to the curves of the patient’s ears, used for the fitting of hearing aids.
Microphone – the hearing aid component that picks up sound in the environment and converts the sound waves into an electrical signal.
Digital signal processor – a specialized microprocessor within the hearing aid that can manipulate and enhance sound.
Amplifier – the component of the hearing aid that boosts the volume of sound.
Speaker – the hearing aid part that delivers the enhanced sound to the ear.
Wireless antenna – available in select hearing aids, permitting wireless connectivity to compatible gadgets such as mobile phones and music players.
Hearing aid advanced features
Variable programming – hearing aid programming that enables the user to adjust sound settings according to the environment (e.g. at home versus in a crowded restaurant).
Directional microphones – microphones that can focus on sound coming from a specified location while minimizing background noise.
Telecoils – a coil placed inside of the hearing aid that allows it to connect with wireless signals emanating 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 enhancement of speech and the suppression of disruptive noise.
Bluetooth technology – allows the hearing aid to connect wirelessly with several devices, including smartphones, computers, MP3 players, and other compatible products.
Not sure which features you need, or which you could live without? Let us help you find the ideal hearing aid for your unique needs. Call us today!
