For the scores of Americans suffering from hearing loss, hearing aids are typically the best bet to restore untreated hearing loss and resume day-to-day activities normally. A vast number of types and styles exist, so people can pick a device that suits their preference and lifestyle.
What is a hearing aid?
Hearing aids are electronic devices that are small and can be personalized to a great extent so that different types of hearing loss can be addressed. Every digital hearing aid comprises at least one microphone to catch the sound, a computer chip to amplify and process it, a speaker that conveys the signal to the ear, and a battery to power it. More advanced models offer extra features, such as a direct connection to neural networks or a smartphone.
How do hearing aids support hearing loss?
A hearing aid amplifies the sounds received by the ear. They are typically meant for individuals with some type of hearing loss called "sensorineural," which implies that there's damage to some of the tiny hair cells of the inner ear. The surviving healthy hair cells catch the sound the hearing aid delivers and send them as neural signals to the brain through the auditory nerve.
How does one purchase hearing aids?
Hearing aids are commonly suggested if one's hearing test results demonstrate hearing loss on an audiogram. Hearing and audiology clinics across America as well as online platforms retail hearing aids.
Who manufactures hearing aids?
There are several hearing aid manufacturers that offer the best hearing device technology in the U.S.. Hearing aid companies invest greatly in research and development to release devices that tackle a variety of needs of individuals dealing with hearing loss. They also strive to provide hearing aids keeping in mind the budgets of different kinds of wearers.
Can one hear better instantly?
Yes, an individual will take some time to get used to their new hearing aids. An initial fitting is performed by hearing healthcare professionals where the features and levels of the hearing aid are finetuned and adjusted. They make sure one is receiving the maximum benefit from the devices. It is crucial to remember that new devices always have an adjustment period, irrespective of if someone has been wearing hearing aids for many years.
