Hearing aids come in an array of shapes and styles, each one serving a specific purpose. They can be programmed to manipulate sound in different ways to suit the specific needs of each hearing aid wearer. The question often arises, what happens when traditional hearing aids won’t help? There may be other options out there that can.
Cochlear implants can help if you are profoundly deaf or severely hard of hearing. They consist of a device behind the ear that picks up and processes sound. Sound is sent to a transmitter that is surgically placed above the ear, which in turn sends signals to the auditory nerve. Cochlear implants do not act in the same way as hearing aids; instead of amplifying sounds that cannot be heard by damaged nerves, they bypass damaged parts of the ear and send the signal directly to the auditory nerve. Cochlear implants do not restore hearing, but give people who are severely hard of hearing a representation of sound. People wearing these devices will need to get assistance and therapy to learn how to interpret and disseminate the sounds they receive. Find out if you are eligible for cochlear implants in Green Valley from your hearing care professional.
Bone anchored hearing devices are another type of device that may restore communication abilities to individuals with hearing loss. These devices help people who struggle with chronic ear infections, or have a very narrow ear canal. The big difference between a Bone Anchored Hearing Device and other hearing aids is that bone anchored devices transmit sound waves through bone conduction whereas other hearing aids do this through air conduction. Bone Anchored Hearing Devices are implanted into the bone of the skull and the sound signal bypasses the middle and outer ear, sending it straight to the cochlea. As with any product there are always advantages and disadvantages to consider. Speak to your audiologist about getting bone anchored hearing devices in Tucson and see if they will be beneficial for you.
Hearing cannot be restored, but with technological advances there are amazing options that might just make life a little bit easier.