Hearing loss affects approximately one in 10 people in the United States. Whether your hearing loss makes it difficult to order your favorite On The Grind Latte or simply softens the occasional sound, finding the right treatment is crucial to an improved quality of life.
Hearing aids and cochlear implants are two common solutions designed to assist those with hearing loss. While both devices are effective, they operate differently and are suited for various levels and types of hearing loss. Let’s take a look at each option and how they may help you manage your hearing loss.
Essential Hearing Aid Facts
These small devices amplify sounds based on the wearer’s specific hearing needs. While hearing aids differ based on size and type, they all consist of three essential parts: a microphone to capture sound, an amplifier to adjust its frequency and volume and a speaker to deliver it into the ear canal.
One of the key benefits of hearing aids is the wearer’s option to choose size and appearance. Hearing aids come in multiple styles (behind-the-ear, in-the-ear etc.) and sizes (usually between 1.5 and 5 cm) to suit different preferences and needs.
Essential Cochlear Implant Facts
Cochlear implants are more complex than hearing aids and consist of external and internal components. Unlike hearing aids that amplify sound, cochlear implants bypass damaged inner ear parts to stimulate the auditory nerve directly. Components include:
- External devices: Microphone, sound processor and transmitter.
- Internal devices: Receiver and electrode array implanted in the cochlea (the spiral-shaped organ in the inner ear).
Cochlear implants require surgical implantation, performed under general anesthesia. During the procedure, your provider will make a small incision behind the ear and guide an electrode to the cochlea. Then, they place a processor between the muscle and bone behind the ear and close the incision.
How Does Adapting to the Devices Differ?
Patients typically adapt to hearing aids within one to two weeks, whereas cochlear implants may require four to six weeks of initial programming appointments. Audiologists and auditory rehabilitation specialists help patients train their brains to understand new sounds during these sessions.
Which Choice Is Right for Me?
Your audiologist will guide you in selecting the best treatment options based on your type of hearing loss, eligibility for surgery and lifestyle. For instance, cochlear implants are not suitable for those with permanent conductive hearing loss (issues in the outer or middle ear), but they can be effective for individuals with profound sensorineural damage (issues in the inner ear).
To explore these options further and receive personalized advice, contact The ENT Center of New Braunfels today to schedule a consultation with one of our experts.
