Amplified Truths Behind Most 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.

The BTE is made up of a plastic tube which carries sound through a customized ear mold. This has a bigger size making it pretty easy to manipulate. This can last much longer than a small device. It can be incorporated with a directional microphone. The only odd is, it is never easy to hide particularly if a wearer does not have a long 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 or ITC aids are barely noticeable as these are inserted into the opening of the ear canal. These are not priced as much as the ITE but are particularly large enough for the directional microphone. These are also prone to feedback.

The disposable hearing aids have non-replaceable battery. These are intended only for periodic use or on important police investigations where the wearers use them only during operations. These are never too ideal for people who were hearing disorders. However, it is a wise idea to spare one or two for emergency use.

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.

Choosing an MD hearing aid needs a professional guidance of a doctor. This is a very insensitive device that requires a series of tests and a careful consideration on important factors before a person can get one and use.




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