Written by: Vanessa Jerusalimiec (*Amsive Digital) | Reviewed by: Shelley Wyant | *MHP partners with Amsive Digital on news content
How to Choose a Hearing Aid That's Right for You
Hearing aids can change the way you interact with the world around you. These sophisticated devices are designed to amplify sounds so you can enjoy conversations and share all of life’s special moments. When it comes to choosing the right hearing aid, you’ll need to consider your type of hearing loss and what features can help you hear clearly.
Hearing Loss: Types and Degrees
There are several types of hearing loss, each with different symptoms and treatment options:
Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Sensorineural hearing loss is caused by damage to the inner ear (cochlea) or the auditory nerve pathways leading to the brain. This type of hearing loss is often caused by aging, exposure to loud noise, genetics, or certain medical conditions. Sensorineural hearing loss is permanent and hearing aids or cochlear implants are the best treatment options.
Conductive Hearing Loss
Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound is unable to pass efficiently through the outer or middle ear. This can be due to earwax buildup, ear infections, or structural abnormalities. Conductive hearing loss is often treatable with medical interventions, such as medications or surgery.
Mixed Hearing Loss
Mixed hearing loss is a combination of sensorineural and conductive hearing loss. This means there may be damage or dysfunction in both the inner ear and middle/outer ear. Treatment depends on the specific causes and may involve both medical interventions and hearing aids.
Unilateral vs. Bilateral Hearing Loss
In unilateral hearing loss, only one ear is affected, while the other ear has normal hearing. This can affect sound localization and make it hard to understand speech in noisy environments.
Bilateral hearing loss occurs when there’s hearing loss in both ears. Bilateral hearing loss can significantly impact communication and quality of life.
Types of Hearing Aids
You have a lot of options when it comes to choosing hearing aids. Each style offers unique features and benefits.
In-the-Ear Hearing Aids (ITE):
These hearing aids are custom-made to fit inside the outer ear. They are suitable for mild to severe hearing loss and offer easy handling and maintenance.
Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aids (BTE):
BTE hearing aids rest behind the ear and are connected to a custom earpiece that fits inside the ear canal. They are versatile, suitable for various degrees of hearing loss, and offer advanced durability.
In-the-Canal Hearing Aids (ITC):
ITC hearing aids are custom-made to fit partially in the ear canal. They are less visible than ITE hearing aids and can treat mild to moderate hearing loss.
Completely-in-Canal Hearing Aids (CIC):
CIC hearing aids are tiny devices that fit entirely inside the ear canal, making them very discreet. They are suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss and often have advanced connectivity features.
Receiver-in-the-Canal Hearing Aids (RIC):
RIC hearing aids have a small behind-the-ear component connected to an earpiece that fits in the ear canal. They are lightweight, comfortable, and suitable for various degrees of hearing loss.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Hearing Aid
When it comes to choosing the right hearing aid, you’ll want to consider the type of hearing loss you have, your hearing needs, and lifestyle factors.
Degree of Hearing Loss
The severity of hearing loss is a good place to start when choosing a hearing aid. Individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss may benefit from a range of hearing aid styles, including in-the-ear (ITE) or completely in-canal (CIC) hearing aids. Those with more severe hearing loss may require more powerful hearing aids, such as behind-the-ear (BTE) or receiver-in-the-canal (RIC) devices.
Lifestyle and Activities
Consider your lifestyle and daily activities when choosing a hearing aid. If you work in a noisy environment, hearing aids with noise-reduction features may be beneficial. If you’re social, hearing aids with advanced speech enhancement capabilities can improve communication. Finally, if you’re active, you may prefer secure-fitting hearing aids that remain in place during exercise.
Budget Considerations
Hearing aids come in various price ranges, depending on features, technology, and styles. Basic hearing aids offer essential amplification, while advanced models include additional features like Bluetooth connectivity and directional microphones. Check if your health insurance plan covers hearing aids or offers financial assistance for hearing health care services.
Aesthetics and Comfort
You can also consider the style and design of your hearing aids. Some individuals prefer discreet styles that are less noticeable, while others prioritize functionality. Regardless of style, ensure the hearing aid feels comfortable in your ear and doesn't cause discomfort or irritation.
Understanding the Features of Modern Hearing Aids
Modern hearing aids come equipped with advanced features that enhance functionality and user experience:
- Noise Reduction: Many hearing aids include noise reduction technology to help minimize background noise in various environments.
- Directional Microphones: Hearing aids with directional microphones focus on amplifying sounds from specific directions while reducing background noise from other directions.
- Rechargeable Batteries: Some hearing aids use rechargeable batteries instead of disposable batteries, offering convenience and cost savings.
- Wireless Connectivity: Many modern hearing aids feature wireless connectivity via Bluetooth technology, so you can stream audio from your smartphone, TV, and other devices directly to the hearing aids.
- Telecoils (T-coils): Telecoils are small coils inside hearing aids that let you connect to sound systems in public venues, without background noise interference.
Getting a Hearing Test
A comprehensive hearing test assesses your hearing loss. It helps identify the type and degree of hearing loss you have. After the hearing test, your audiologist will discuss the results with you in detail. You’ll gain insights into the type and severity of your hearing loss so you can make informed decisions about hearing aid options and treatment plans.
Fitting a Hearing Aid
Getting a hearing aid properly fitted gives you the best performance and comfort. Your hearing health care provider will make sure the hearing aid fits comfortably and securely in your ear, making adjustments as needed for optimal comfort. They will also program the hearing aid to amplify sounds according to your specific hearing needs and preferences.
Aftercare and Maintenance of Hearing Aids
Proper care can maximize the performance and longevity of your hearing aids. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help prevent issues and ensure better hearing aid performance:
- Use a Dry Cloth: Wipe down the hearing aids daily with a dry cloth to remove dirt, moisture, and earwax.
- Clean Ear Molds: If your hearing aids have ear molds, clean them regularly with a mild soap solution and rinse thoroughly.
- Change Filters and Wax Guards: Follow manufacturer guidelines for replacing filters and wax guards to prevent blockages and maintain sound quality.
- Store Properly: Store your hearing aids in a dry, protective case when not in use to prevent damage from moisture or dust.
If you notice any signs of damage or changes in sound quality, your audiologist can thoroughly clean your devices and make repairs as needed.
Take Charge of Your Hearing Health Today!
Choosing the right hearing aid can enhance your quality of life. A properly fitted hearing aid tailored to your hearing profile and lifestyle can enhance speech understanding, improve social interactions, and boost overall well-being. Regular audiologist visits can ensure better hearing and give you ongoing support.
To explore your coverage options, visit McLaren Health Plan today. Let’s make sure you have the health care coverage you need!
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