Loss of hearing (Presbycusis) comes along with aging. The National Institute of Health concludes that over one third of the US population between the ages of 65-75 is suffering from hearing loss, according to their research. Additionally, almost half the population over the age of 75 suffers from irreversible hearing loss. Therefore, the usage of hearing aids becomes the most apt solution to combat hearing loss. Hearing aid is a small electrostatic device that helps to enhance the listening ability of the user. Various types and brands are available such asSiemens hearing aid, the Phonak, Oticon and Westone.

Typically, they come in many different styles; giving enough options to even the most skeptic users. The most prominent styles are as follows: Behind the ear: As the name suggests, its case rests behind the pinna of your ears. It is recommended for people with moderate to profound hearing loss. On the ear: This kind is quite similar to the BTE (Behind the Ear) with the only conspicuous difference being the size. It’s quite smaller and has the ability to fit on the ear. In the ear: These fit in the “concha” of the ear or the outer ear bowl.

This type is recommended for people with moderate to severe hearing loss. The ITE (In the Ear) type is usually not recommended for children suffering from hearing loss due to their inflexible fit. Invisible in canal: They are made to fit inside the ear canal completely, thereby leaving no signs of visibility. Furthermore, they are extremely comfortable to use and don’t leave a vexing effect on the user. These types are generally recommended for middle aged people suffering from hearing loss only. Completely in canal:

These are devices which are placed for duration of 1-3 months at a time and don’t require to be taken out unless otherwise specified. It is highly recommended to get these placed by a certified ear doctor or health professional. They could be used to combat mild to profound hearing loss. These are recommended to people who lead an active lifestyle as it protects against moisture from sweating. These are also suitable for people who are extremely self-conscious and don’t want their hearing aid to be seen Disposable hearing aid:

These come with a pre-fitted non-replaceable/ non-chargeable battery. These are designed to use very less power and hence last much longer than the above mentioned orthodox hearing aids. It is important to keep in mind that hearing aids do not cure hearing loss.

They are simply just tools aimed to enhance the listening experience. Hence it becomes vital to keep a few things in mind: Occlusion effect: It is quite common with new users. It pertains to the echo-like sounds that the users hear of their own voice. Although eventually one gets acclimated to this effect, it is highly advised to meet a specialist to correct the hearing aid for a better experience. Compression effect: It refers to the proper level of sound amplification set on the receiver of the hearing aid.

Hearing aids can be judged by performing audiometry. It measures the audibility of various sounds and intensities, thereby providing with accurate judgment to help in choosing the perfect hearing aid to combat hearing loss. Authors BIO: The Hearing Center is your one-stop center for complete hearing aids and hearing conservation services. Ernest has been fitting hearing devices since 2004.