Hearing Aid Evaluations
The first step to fitting a hearing aid is completing a comprehensive audiological evaluation. This is a series of diagnostic procedures used to determine the type, degree, and configuration of hearing loss. The goal of this evaluation is to develop a treatment plan that is unique to the patient’s needs in order to improve their communication skills.
Fitting of Hearing Aids
A hearing aid is an instrument designed to amplify sound through a microphone, amplifier, and receiver. Sound is picked up and is transformed into electrical impulses though the microphone. These electrical impulses are carried to the amplifier where, using power from the battery, it builds up (increases) the electrical signal produced by the microphone. The receiver changes the electrical signal back into sound waves once again and directs this sound into the ear.
Types of Hearing Aids
There are several choices when it comes to the size of hearing aids and how they are worn. The primary styles are shown below.
Specialty Devices
Lyric Invisible Hearing Aid
While traditional hearing aids capture and process sound outside of the ear, Lyric uses the natural anatomy of the ear to amplify and give you a full, natural listening experience. Because the Lyric is placed in the ear canal near the eardrum by a trained professional, it is the world’s only 100% invisible hearing aid.
Completely-In-The-Canal
(CIC)
Completely-In-The-Canal (CIC), the smallest model, which fits deep inside the ear canal and is almost invisible when worn.
In-The-Ear
(ITE)
In-The-Ear (ITE), which fills part or all of the opening to the ear.
Behind-The-Ear
(BTE)
Behind-The-Ear (BTE), which is worn behind the ear and connected by inconspicuous tubing or wire to a plastic earmold in the ear canal.
Prescription Hearing Aids vs Over The Counter (OTC)
The options for hearing technology have never been more plentiful and complicated. Click here to learn more.