Many people have a misconception that you only lose your hearing when you get older. This, of course, is not true. There are people at all age levels who experience different degrees of hearing loss. However, once you have been diagnosed with a loss of hearing, you will want to take action to try to restore it. While most forms of hearing are a direct result of nerve damage and non-reparable, you can use the newer technology in the form of hearing aids to help enhance what is left of your hearing.
To first determine which hearing aid is the appropriate choice for you, you have to first ascertain how significant your hearing loss is. If you have not already, you should plan on visiting a medical practitioner – an audiologist – that is skilled in administering hearing tests. Once you have your hearing results, you can begin discussing the option of hearing aids with your practitioner.
Types of Hearing Aids Available
If you are only suffering from a minor loss, the inner ear hearing aid is designed for this. Most in the ear aids are only able to offer minor amplification, which is good for those who have experienced little loss.
If you have experienced a more significant loss, you will not be able to use most of the in the ear hearing aids. For these, bilateral or behind the ear hearing aids are your best option. They come in various strengths and can be used even on those who suffer severe to profound hearing loss.
The best way to determine which hearing aid is right for you is to speak with your practitioner or your hearing aid distributor. Choosing the wrong type of hearing aid can further damage your hearing, or may not help you improve your hearing at all.
Hearing aids are not a temporary solution, they are permanently worn. You will take them out at night and while bathing, but at all other times, they will be worn if you want to take advantage of the benefits they offer.
For those who qualify, a cochlear implant may also be an option. Most people who opt for the cochlear implant have very little to no hearing left. There are risks associated with the surgery, including a loss of any existing hearing.
Choosing a hearing aid is a personal choice. Many people who begin to lose their hearing opt not to wear a hearing aid for fear of looking silly or being embarrassed of their hearing loss. With the right hearing aid, though, the quality of your life can be vastly improved.
Many people’s quality of life is improved with the help of a hearing aid. There are several on the market to choose from and it all depends on your unique circumstances and hearing loss.
