Hearing Aid Options: Finding The Best Hearing Aids For You
Looking for the best hearing aid? Hearing aids are expensive, so why not buy the best one available?
This is a good idea, but there's only one problem: There is no "best" hearing aid. Which hearing aid is best for you depends entirely on your needs, and the nature of your hearing loss.
Here is a guide for what kind of hearing aid is best for you!
Types Of Hearing Loss
- Conductive Hearing Loss. This means that there is a problem somewhere in your ear, so that the sound is not getting all the way from your outer ear to the inner ear. This is the most common reason people get hearing aids.
- Sensorineural Hearing Loss. In this case, there is a problem further in the inner ear, or there may be nerve problem so that the signal is not getting from the inner ear to the brain. This is a much more serious problem, but can be helped with the use of a hearing aid.
- Mixed Hearing Loss. Mixed hearing loss refers to a combination of both conductive and sensorineural hearing loss.
Buying A Hearing Aid
Note: Before buying a hearing aid, make sure that the manufacturer has a trial period. This is important. Most companies have a 30 or 60-day trial period during which you can return the hearing aid if it is not for you.
Regular Hearing Aids
Traditional hearing aids are designed to boost sound, and are good for any kind of hearing loss.
The most common hearing aids are the ones you've seen around. There are those that fit behind-the-ear (BTEs), in-the-ear (ITEs) and inside the ear canal.
You can also choose between digital and analog hearing aids. Analog hearing aids are less expensive, but are being phased out gradually, in favor of digital aids that have better sound quality and more features.
With more options to choose from, hearing aid users are increasingly choosing customized features such as dual microphone systems, different channels that can be switched back and forth, and telecoils that allow you to use your hearing aid with a telephone.
Implants
There are now hearing aids that can be surgically implanted. In this case, either the whole device or part of the device is put inside the body. There are advantages and disadvantages to this method. These are designed for those with serious and chronic hearing loss.
These devices take sound energy from outside and move the middle ear to reproduce the sound. They are designed for those with sensorineural hearing loss, and will not work if the middle ear is damaged. If you are considering this option, talk to your doctor to see if it might be appropriate for you.
Earglasses
The newest thing in hearing aid technology is a device that uses no electronics and no battery at all. It is a device made according to acoustic principles that sits behind your ear and magnifies sound about 12 decibels.
Earglasses work basically in the same way as cupping your hand around your ear does. It is a natural way to boost sound coming from in front of the listener. They will help you if you suffer mild hearing loss, only. For more severe hearing loss, more sophisticated technology is needed.