Hearing Aids

What are the different styles of hearing aids?

Hearing aids are categorised into 4 types, these are:

• Behind-the-ear (BTE):behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids connect to a custom-fit earmold within the outer ear. The device's electronic components are safely housed in a sturdy plastic shell at the back of the ear. These aids capture and enhance sounds, which are then directed through the earmold and transmitted into the ear. BTE hearing aids serve individuals of all ages and effectively address varying levels of hearing loss, from mild to severe.
• Receiver-in-canal (RIC):receiver-in-canal (RIC), also known as receiver-in-the-ear (RITE), hearing aids are similar to BTE models but with the main body behind the ear. A thin wire with the receiver extends from the body, loops over the ear, and enters the ear canal. The wire's soft tip sits inside the ear canal, not creating a seal. This design provides a natural sound experience. RIC devices need some manual dexterity to operate and suit individuals with mild to severe hearing loss.
• In-the-canal (ITC):in-the-canal (ITC) hearing aids are crafted to snugly fit deeper into your ear canal than in-the-ear (ITE) models, resulting in a more discreet appearance. Despite their compact design, they rely on smaller batteries and may present handling difficulties due to their smaller size.
• In-the-ear (ITE): in-the-ear (ITE)hearing aids are designed to fit the entire ear (full-shell) or just part of the ear bowl (half-shell). These models are particularly suitable for individuals who may encounter challenges with fine motor skills or find it difficult handling small objects. ITE hearing aids are often used by individuals with moderate to severe hearing loss.

How do hearing aids work?

At their core, hearing aids are designed to amplify sound, making it easier for you to hear. They consist of three primary components: a microphone, an amplifier, and a speaker.

A simple breakdown of the process is as follows:

• Sound capture:the microphone picks up sound from your surroundings. These sounds can range from a person’s voice to the gentle rustle of leaves in the wind.
• Sound amplification: once the microphone captures the sounds, they are converted into digital signals. The amplifier then steps in, increasing the strength of these signals. This is where the hearing aids can differentiate between types of sounds, amplifying what you need to hear while minimising background noise.
• Sound delivery: the amplified signals are then converted back into sound waves and directed into your ear through the speaker. This enhanced sound makes it easier for your ears to process, improving your ability to hear and understand what is happening around you.

Modern hearing aids can be tailored to your specific hearing loss profile. During your fitting, our audiologist can program the device to target the frequencies you struggle with most, ensuring you receive a personalised hearing experience. This customisation means that whether you are in a quiet room or a bustling street, your hearing aid can adjust to provide you with the best possible support.

What conditions can hearing aids treat?

Hearing aids can be used to treat various types of hearing loss, these are:

• Sensorineural hearing loss:sensorineural hearing loss is the most common type of hearing loss, often caused by damage to the hair cells in the inner ear.
• Conductive hearing loss:conductive hearing loss occurs when sound does not travel efficiently through the outer ear canal to the eardrum and the tiny bones of the middle ear.
• Mixed hearing loss:mixed hearing loss is a combination of sensorineural and conductive hearing loss.
• Tinnitus: while not a form of hearing loss, tinnitus(or ringing in the ears) can be managed using certain hearing aids.
• Auditory processing disorders:auditory processing disorders occur when the brain has difficulty processing information in sound, even though the auditory system functions normally.

What results can I expect with hearing aids?

When selecting a suitable hearing aid, you unlock a range of benefits. A key improvement often noticed by users is better speech comprehension, which is crucial for active conversation engagement, even in noisy settings. This enhancement eases communication, improving the overall quality of life. Using hearing aids also reduces listening strain, leading to reduced fatigue.

Improved hearing with hearing aids involves multiple steps, these are:

• Comprehensive hearing assessment: a thorough hearing assessment determines the extent of hearing loss and the best treatment plan.
• Custom fitting and programming: the hearing aid is customised and programmed to meet your specific needs, ensuring optimal performance and comfort.
• Regular follow-up appointments: for adjustments and maintenance, ensuring your hearing aid's longevity and effectiveness.