Modern problems require modern solutions — as they say. If you have problems with hearing, you may have heard about the newest trend called “digital hearing aids.” But how do they work? How can you literally digitalize these technologies (or equipment) to work for your hearing? The ENT Allergy & Sinus Center is here to help you clear your mind.
Our goal is not only to address your hearing, allergies, and sinus concerns but also to provide the best information possible. If you’re interested in how digital hearing aids work, continue reading this post!
What are digital hearing aids?
Digital hearing aids can be changed to fit each person’s hearing loss. After the hearing test is done, the hearing aids are set up to match the level and pattern of hearing loss found. Digital hearing aids have automatic features that can change the volume and settings to help you hear better in different situations.
How Does It Work?
Digital hearing aids typically consist of three major parts: a microphone, a processor, and a loudspeaker. The microphone collects environmental noises or acoustic impulses and transfers them to the processor.
Sounds are amplified and converted into electrical impulses by the processor. The speakers or receivers transmit the signal to the wearer’s ear. There, the sound is released, and the user may once again hear it clearly.
To allow hearing aid users to hear without difficulty, hearing aids precisely increase communication-relevant sounds and minimize disturbing sounds. Modern hearing aids are totally automatic in this regard.
Digital Hearing Aids Benefits
There are numerous digital hearing aid solutions available today. Performance in background noise is the primary issue of most patients with hearing loss and prior hearing aid users. The following approaches can assist with background noise management:
Several Listening Programs
Digital hearing aids are equipped with multiple listening programs. There are environments with a great deal of background noise and environments with minimal to no background noise. Hearing aids with several programs may switch between programs automatically or manually, as the user chooses. Some hearing aids could also include a remote control.
Directional microphone innovation
This is another method for enhancing hearing in noisy environments. Hearing aids with a single microphone operates in omnidirectional mode (meaning sound is picked up all around). Hearing aids with directional microphone capabilities are often equipped with two microphones, one of which can be directed toward the sound source. At the same time, the other seeks to reduce background noise.
For better interpretation, an audiologist will assist you in determining which circuitry is optimal for their particular hearing requirements. Here at ENT Allergy & Sinus Center, our doctors are ready to help you with any of your hearing concerns.
We’ve got our certified and qualified physicians who can customize a plan to help you achieve your goals. You can drop by our clinic or call us to discuss each term at your convenience.
How To Avail a Digital Hearing Aids
If you do not currently have an ENT physician, ask your primary care physician to refer you to one. These experts can assess and treat your hearing loss.
The ENT will do a test to determine the source of your discomfort. You will also consult an audiologist who will conduct tests to determine the nature and severity of your hearing loss.
If necessary, these specialists can provide you with a hearing aid. Avoid ordering hearing aids online. They frequently do not fit properly and do not improve hearing sufficiently. If you have hearing loss in both ears, you should most likely use two hearing aids.
Other Types of Hearing Aids
Analog hearing aids. This type transforms sound waves into electrical impulses before amplifying them. Typically less priced and with specific volume settings.
Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids. This kind is encased in a hard plastic casing that rests behind the ear. A plastic ear mold fits inside the outer ear and channels sound to the ear canal.
A different type, known as a Mini BTE, fits totally behind the ear and has a thin tube that enters the ear canal. This helps prevent earwax buildup and ensures that your speech is audible. BTEs are effective for mild to profound hearing loss, although they are not suitable for everyone. Learn more about hearing aid wax guards and how they function.
Receiver-in-canal (RIC) and receiver-in-the-ear (RITE) types include a component behind the ear that links through a thin wire to a receiver or ear canal. These allow low-frequency sounds to enter the ear naturally while amplifying high-frequency sounds through the hearing aid.
RIC and RITE may be suitable for those with mild to substantial hearing loss. Discover more about hearing aids, especially frequency-shifting hearing aids. Ensure to inquire if the item you’re considering has any desirable features. Not all hearing aid batteries are identical.
Canal hearing aids. This kind fits inside the ear canal and is less noticeable. The in-the-canal (ITC) hearing aid is custom-fit to your ear canal. Completely-in-canal (CIC) hearing aids are smaller and practically invisible in the ear canal.
Either type can assist with mild to moderate hearing loss. However, the size can make it more challenging to adjust and remove. This form of hearing aid is not suited for young children or adults who may have difficulty handling tiny devices.
Others are practically unable to detect an invisible-in-canal (IIC) assistance. You may insert it daily, or it may be a gadget you wear for several months.
In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids. This kind fits entirely within the outer ear canal. A durable plastic casing protects the electronics. They perform best for those with medium to severe hearing loss but not as well for children with developing ears.
Hearing Aids Adjustments
Understand that your hearing aid cannot restore your hearing to its previous state. However, you will become more conscious of noises and their origins as you use them.
Be patient when you first receive your hearing aids. They may require some time to become accustomed to. After purchasing a gadget, you are permitted a trial period in most states.
Then, if yours does not work, you may receive a partial refund and be able to try another more effective variety. Ask about warranty coverage as well. Learn how your hearing aids operate and insist on a proper fit. Collaborate closely with your audiologist to prevent any issues.
Call us here at ENT Allergy & Sinus Center if you need any assistance. Our staff and medical doctors are willing to help you at any time.
