Hearing can be impaired by many factors, such as an ageing ear, noise exposure, head injuries, pregnancy and more. As hearing loss progresses it can affect how well you hear speech in noisy environments or even isolate you from the people around you. It’s not always easy to know what your options are for dealing with it.
Do you choose a hearing aid or a cochlear implant?
Here are some facts that will help inform your decision.
Hearing aids are a type of medical device that is typically used to improve the ability of a person with hearing loss in one or both ears to hear better in a situation. Hearing aids come in three parts: the microphone, the amplifier, and the receiver. They help make sound louder and clearer for people who have trouble hearing what’s going on around them.
Cochlear implants are devices that are surgically implanted into the inner ear by a medical professional. They use technology to help people who are deaf or hard of hearing to detect sounds. Initially, they were only used for children but now they’re also being used for adults.
Hearing aids and cochlear implants might both appear to be similar, but they do have some significant differences. Hearing aids amplify sound, whereas cochlear implants stimulate the auditory nerve to allow those with hearing loss to hear again. Hearing aids are best for those whose hearing loss has just started and didn’t notice it until later on in life. On the other hand, cochlear implants are best for those who haven’t been able to hear well since birth. The implant will be a more cost-effective solution if the person is getting a lifelong benefit from it.
There are some cases where people can wear both a hearing aid and cochlear implant at the same time, but this is not always possible. A cochlear implant needs to be surgically placed inside the ear. So, it’s typically only an option for children or adults who have lost their hearing due to illness or injury that have open-canal ear drums. A hearing aid can be worn by anyone, but it cannot provide as much sound amplification as a cochlear implant.
The choice between a hearing aid or a cochlear implant is one that people often have to make. Both devices can be used to provide hearing for someone who has lost their ability to hear, but they are different in some key ways. The decision should be based on the needs of the person with hearing loss and their current lifestyle.
Source:
HK Hearing & Speech Centre
Specialist of Hearing test & assessment,
and Hearing Aids Prescription
https://www.hkhearingspeech.com
What is a Cochlear Implant
A cochlear implant is an electronic device surgically implanted to excite the cochlear nerve responsible for hearing. It is an assembly of two parts: external and internal.
The external component, which is just behind the ear, contains the microphone picking up sound and is processed and signals are sent to the internal component. The internal component is put under the skin at the back of the ear also and done so in an outpatient surgery procedure.
A thin wire accompanied with electrodes are directed to the cochlea which is a part of the inner ear. The cochlear nerve receives the signals and sends these sound information to the brain to produce sense of sound.
Who can have a Cochlear Implant
Any one with hearing loss, from infant to adult, may opt for this especially those that find no comfort with hearing aids. Those relying on lip reading and even those without hearing aids, but unclear sounds are heard may also be considered for this procedure.
A hearing care specialist is to be consulted before taking any steps further. A cochlear implant may not be right for you and a consultation will provide a clear evaluation of your condition that will pave the way to a definite decision.
Cochlear implants may be partially or fully inserted to the nerve depending on the severity of hearing loss. Partial insert is usually for moderate cases which can be combined with hearing aid. Full insertion is preferred for severe cases of hearing loss.
Situations to Know Before Decision
Risks of Cochlear Implant
The practice for a cochlear implant is generally safe and a well-tolerated surgical procedure. Depending on your medical condition and like all surgeries, there are still risks that exist but can be prevented. Here are a few:
If you wonder if your kids needs a hearing aid or cochlear implant, please contact HK Hearing & Speech Centre for consulation. We offer professional hearing test & assessment, and hearing aid prescription.
Source:
HK Hearing & Speech Centre
Specialist of Hearing test & assessment,
and Hearing Aid Prescription
https://www.hkhearingspeech.com