Hearing Aids

Hearing aids are electronic devices that amplify sound and send it down the ear canal. The amplification ensures that the signals going into the ear are strong and audible. The device consists of a microphone that picks up the sound and sends it to a receiver and amplifier. The amplifier makes the sound louder and helps correct distortion. The device has a volume control and is powered by a small battery.

The hearing aid evaluation

Since there are several types of hearing aids available, a hearing aid evaluation will be done. During this evaluation, the audiologist will help you decide what style and what features you would most benefit from.

Some of the things to consider include your activity level, any physical limitations or medical conditions you may have, your preferences in style and appearance, and how much you want to spend on the hearing aid. The audiologist will also help you decide if you need a hearing aid one ear or both.

Hearing aid styles

There are four main styles of hearing aids from which to choose. These include:

• Behind the ear (BTE) styles
• In the ear (ITE) styles
• In the canal (ITC) styles
• Completely in the canal (CIC) styles

The fitting process

When you have determined the style that suits your needs, the hearing aid will have to be fitted to your ear. This ensures that the hearing aid will be comfortable and will fit properly.

To get an exact fit, the audiologist will make an impression of your ear canal by injecting a small amount of soft silicone material into it. This is a painless process that only takes a few minutes. The hardened silicone pulls out easily. The resulting mold is sent to the hearing aid manufacturer so they can make your hearing aid.

Once the hearing aid is ready, you will return for a fitting session. The audiologist will insert the hearing aid and check the fit to make sure it is perfect and comfortable. She will also check that the hearing aid works properly. Additional hearing tests will be done to check your hearing with the aid installed. Adjustments will be made as needed.

Wearing and caring for your hearing aid

The audiologist will also instruct you on how to care for your hearing aid. Here are some guidelines:

• The hearing aid should be cleaned daily according to the manufacturer's instructions and by wiping with a soft cloth or tissue
• Never let the hearing aid get wet
• Never use any cleaners on the hearing aid
• Try to keep ear wax from getting into the hearing aid
• Change batteries regularly (batteries usually last anywhere from 5 days to 2 weeks)

Always call the audiologist if you have any questions or problems with your hearing aid. It may take a few visits to get it just right. It may also take a few weeks to adjust to your new hearing aid. Sometimes it's best to avoid noisy places in the beginning. Start with quieter conversations with one or two people and work up to louder environments.