Saturday, June 8, 2013

Amplified Truths About Hearing Aids

By Michelle Howe


A hearing aid is a sophisticated electroacoustic device worn behind the ear, designed to amplify sound through converting it to electrical signal. There are several types of MD hearing aid. Each of which has distinct power and circuitry. Among the most common hearing instruments in the market today are the body worn aids, behind the ear aids, in the ear aids, in the canal aids and disposable aids. Each one has pros and cons; hence, before one picks out, it is best to consult with an expert audiologist in order not to put one's auditory system definitely at stake.

The body worn aid is the first of its kind. It was designed and created by Harvey Fletcher, an American physicist referred to as the father of stereophonic sound. Body worn aids have an ear mold and a case that are attached with a wire. The case is about the size of a playing card. It contains several electronic amplifier devices, controls and a battery.

Behind the ear aids are plastic tubes that carry sound in customized ear molds. They come in larger sizes making it easy for users to manipulate. These can last pretty much longer compared with the smaller devices. They could be integrated with directional microphones. The thing is, these are not quite easy to hide especially if the wearer has a short hair.

An in the ear or ITE, on the other hand, is also custom-made with a shell that perfectly fits in the outer part of the ear. It can house a typical volume control as well as directional microphone. It is easy to manipulate and inserted. This tends to be a bit bulky, though.

In the canal aids are not really noticeable for these are directly inserted into the very opening of the users' ear canal. These devices are priced not as high as ITE aids but are quite large enough for a directional phone. These can be prone to feedback.

Disposable hearing aids are those that have non-replaceable batteries. These are designed for periodic use only or on critical police investigations where wearers only use them during the operation. These are not really ideal for those with inborn hearing disorder. But having these as spare is a good idea.

Ordinary aids are regulated by the Federal Food and Drug Administration under Class I of medical devices. Industrialized countries normally supply free aids through the government funded healthcare program. There are also some companies that offer heavily discounted devices but consumers are cautioned about buying if they have not spoken to their doctors yet.

People who have severe conditions are required to pay their audiologists a regular visit. Necessary adjustments for the directional microphone as well as control system are required from time to time. Doing these adjustments without the knowledge and skill can only result in the aids' failure.

Buying any MD hearing aid requires a professional guidance from a doctor. The device is very insensitive that necessitates a series of tests as well as a careful consideration on critical factors before a user can get one.




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