It is undeniable that the function isense of hearing very influential in activevsociality.Hearing aids are one solution If you have hearing loss.
To evaluate the condition of the sense of hearing, it is necessary to do a hearing test. If the results of the examination indicate hearing loss or deafness. Then the doctor may suggest the use of hearing aids.
Hearing aids may not restore your hearing to normal, but they can amplify the reception of indistinct sounds and reduce loud background noise. That way, you can hear better.
This electronic device is able to help someone who has a hearing loss, to be able to hear and communicate better. This tool consists of three main components, namely microphone, amplifier and speaker.
The working principle of this tool, the sound will enter through microphone which then converts it into an electrical signal and sends it to amplifier. Furthermore, amplifier in charge of increasing signal strength and sending sound to the ear through the speaker.
How Hearing Aids Work
In general, the way hearing aids work is divided into two, namely analog and digital. The difference lies in the signal generated, here's an explanation:
- Analog hearing aids
Analog hearing aids work by converting sound into an amplified electrical signal. This kit will be made to order as recommended by your audiologist or doctor.
- Digital hearing aids
These hearing aids convert sound into a numeric code, like the one on a computer so that it can be specially programmed, to amplify certain frequencies. This tool is also easier to set up and adapt to the environment and user needs. However, generally the price of this product is more expensive than the analog type.
Types of Hearing Aids
Hearing aids will accompany your daily activities, so your audiologist or doctor will recommend the type according to your age and level of hearing loss. Below are some types of hearing aids that are generally sold in the market:
- Tools in in ear (in the ear/ITE)ITE is suitable for mild to severe hearing loss. Usually there are two models of ITE, namely a device that is attached to the entire external ear lobe or only part of it. This type is not recommended for children because they are in the growth stage, so the size of the ear lobe is constantly changing. Here is a brief overview of ITE:
- Easy
- Uses a bigger battery so it lasts longer.
- The ITE is more visible than other, smaller types of hearing aids.
- Has a feature in the form of volume control.
- The speaker is prone to being clogged with earwax.
- Device behind the ear (behind the ears/BTE)BTE is worn by attaching it to the top of the earlobe and behind the ear. There is a small tube as a connector for receiving sound in the ear canal or called earmod. BTE is suitable for various levels of hearing loss at all ages. Here's a quick overview of BTE:
- Sounds can be louder than other hearing aids.
- Picks up more wind noise, so may be noisier than other types.
- The modified form is now smaller than the previous generation which is the largest type of hearing aid.
- Speaker/Receiver in the ear or ear canal (receiver in channel/RIC and receiver in the ear/RITE)This type looks almost the same as BTE. The difference is, BTE uses a small tube while this type of device uses a small cable. Here's a quick overview of this type of tool:
- Compared to BTE, it is less noticeable.
- Speakers are prone to earwax blockage.
- Instruments in the ear canalon the channel/ITC)This type is suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss in adults. ITC can be made to order. The shape will fill part of the ear canal. Here's an overview of ITC:
- Here is a brief overview of this type of tool.
- Not too noticeable on the ear.
- Speakers are prone to earwax blockage.
- The apparatus is completely in the ear canal (completely in the canal/CIC)The CIC is shaped to fit into the ear canal. The use of the ITC is for mild to moderate hearing loss in adults. Here's a quick overview of CIC:
- Doesn't really catch the wind.
- Susceptible to earwax blockage.
- Does not contain additional features as in ITC.
- Is a type that is the smallest of the other types and does not look conspicuous.
- Because it uses a smaller battery, it lasts shorter and is harder to hold.
Usually, novice users will need a few weeks to adapt to the tool. After getting used to it, users can adjust the tool themselves until the volume is just right and comfortable.
- Cochlear Implant
In contrast to hearing aids that can amplify sound, a cochlear implant is a medical procedure performed by replacing the damaged inner ear function with the performance of a small electronic device that works to stimulate the auditory nerve. This action is more useful for people with nerve deafness.
The implant is implanted into the inner ear area, produces sound signals, which are then transmitted to the brain via the auditory nerve. With this tool, users can understand sounds that appear in the environment, warning signals, including understanding conversations with other people on the phone.
If it's your first time using a hearing aid, it's best to try it in a quiet room first. This is because the sound can sound different in different rooms, for example, open or closed rooms, large or small, noisy or not. Do this until your ears get used to using the hearing aid.
If you have problems using your hearing aid or want to adjust the device, it is best to consult a doctor first. The doctor will help detect the problem you are experiencing as well as provide advice on the use of a good hearing aid.