A hearing aid is an electronic device designed to enhance hearing by producing sound audible to an individual with a hearing impairment. Hearing aids are generally classified as therapeutic devices in all states and monitored by the corresponding regulatory agencies. The majority of hearing aids fall into one of several classes based on the technology they use.
The first two classes, behind the “P” and “C” brands, are the most well-known. They include BTE (behind the ear), Behind the Ear, Soft, intermediate, amplified and audio-constructive. Each has its advantages, depending upon your needs.
Private treatment: Some hearing aids require a doctor’s prescription. Others may need private treatment from an audiologist before being approved for sale. The advantage of private treatment is that you can try out an aid before purchasing it. However, most audiology offices will want you to undergo a trial period.
In the BTE hearing aids from HCAudiology, the aid is placed behind the ear; this allows the aid to work on the outer ear canal. The aid functions by amplifying sounds in the inner ear to understand speech that is too loud or speech that is too soft. BTE hearing aids are usually the least expensive aid to purchase. However, they require regular replacement of batteries and need to be kept clean.
Soft hearing aids from HCAudiology function differently than the BTE. These are used to treat mild to severe loss of hearing. The electronic device transmits sound waves to the inner ear and speaker. The speaker can be used to reproduce music or to produce aural effects. Although these aids can be more expensive, they are also the most effective.
There are several different types available. You can get an in-built sensor or opt to have a cochlear implant inserted. You can have the cochlear sensor implants inserted or opt to use a versatile device that is battery operated. This will allow you to choose between electronic devices depending on your condition. You may need to consult a hearing professional to determine which type of aid will work best for you.
Behind the ear: these hearing aids Adelaide work in the same way as regular hearing aids. They receive sound through the transmitter and transmit the signal to the receiver. The receiver may contain a microphone, or it may be a speaker. These devices are usually smaller than those in the outer ear canal. You may need to wear a hearing aid receiver around your neck.
Digital: digital hearing aids Adelaide to operate in much the same way as regular analog hearing aids. The difference is that the transmitted sound is digitally encoded to play only when a listener receives it. The transmitted sound can be played on various media players depending on your preference. Most digital devices also playback the speakers’ sounds so that you can hear them on a DVD or CD.
Microphone: a microphone is probably the most common type of aid that people use. You can find these in either a stand-alone style or as part of an electronic device such as a hearing aid receiver. Most people choose to wear a microphone as it makes the wearer more comfortable. They are also smaller than the stand-alone styles. Microphones are often the most expensive type of aid to buy. They must be calibrated to pick up the smallest of sounds.
These are just a few of the different environments that hearing aids can be used in. If you suffer from hearing loss and are looking for a way to improve your hearing, you should consult with a hearing specialist in your area to determine the best type of device for your particular needs. Remember that hearing aids work by amplifying and transforming the sounds that are already in your ear. This is why they are great for people who live in very loud noise filled environments as well as for people who live in very quiet environments.