| Questions |
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-Why do people lose their hearing? -Are there degrees of hearing loss? -How do hearing aids work? -What should I expect form my hearing aid realistically? -Do you need a hearing aid? -Where can I purchase a hearing aid? -Are there federal and state standards for selling hearing aids to protect me? -What are the types of hearing aids? |
| Why do people lose their hearing? |
| The definition of hearing loss depends on what part of the auditory or “hearing” system has been damaged. The two most common types of hearing loss include conductive hearing loss and sensorinueral hearing loss. Hearing loss can also include central auditory processing disorders. |
| Conductive Hearing Loss |
| Conductive hearing loss happens when sound is not properly conducted through the outer and middle ears. This type of hearing loss often results from a punctured eardrum, birth defects, ear infections, genetic variables and even wax blockage. Conductive hearing loss includes problems associated with the ear canal, eardrum, or the tiny bones (ossicles) found in the middle ear. Conductive hearing loss is typically identified by a reduction in sound level. Conductive hearing loss is also usually identified by the ability to hear only the faintest sounds. Thanks to modern technology, conductive hearing loss can be corrected through medicine or surgery. |
| Sensorineural Hearing Loss |
| Sensorineural hearing loss affects some 17 million Americans. Sensorineural or "nerve" is hearing loss that has resulted from damage to the inner ear, typically the cochlea or somewhere along the nerve pathways from the inner ear such as the retrocochlear pathway of the acoustic nerve to the brain. Aging, prenatal and birth-related problems, viral and bacterial infections, genetic syndromes, trauma or a tumor in the inner ear can cause sensorineural Hearing Loss. Sensorineural hearing loss usually can't be repaired surgically or medically; it is a permanent loss unless corrected with a hearing aid. |
| Are there Degrees of Hearing Loss? |
| The degree of hearing loss refers directly to the severity of the hearing or audial hearing loss. Seven categories are typically used indicated by numerical values based on the average of the hearing loss at three frequencies 500 Hz, 1000 Hz, and 2000 Hz in the “better” ear without any amplification. Normal range or no impairment = -10 dB to 15 dB Slight Loss/Minimal loss = 16 dB to 25 dB Mild loss = 26 dB to 30 dB Moderate loss = 31 dB to 50 dB Moderate/Severe loss = 51 dB to 70 dB Severe loss = 71 dB to 90 dB Profound loss = 91 dB or more) |
| How do Hearing Aids Work? |
| Hearing aids have improved the lives of millions of people around the world. Hearing aids enhance sound by filling in gaps between natural sound and the lowered ability to hear. While there are many differences in style and circuitry, all hearing aids consist of the following: -- a microphone that modifies sound waves into electrical impulses -- an amplifier that increases the strength of the electrical impulse -- a receiver that reverses the electrical impulses into sound waves -- and some type of battery to provide power to operate the hearing aid. |
| What can I realistically expect from my hearing aid? |
| There have been vast improvements in the quality and design of hearing aids in the past twenty-five years. Purchasing a new hearing aid will improve the quality of life by giving you the gift of hearing. Thanks to great advancements of technology, you can purchase hearing aids that people will not even notice that you are wearing! Make sure to look around for the hearing aid that is right for you and don’t settle for extremely expensive hearing aids; many discount hearing aids work just as well. |
| How can I tell whether I need a hearing aid? |
| First, obtain an ear examination from a licensed physician so you can be sure that there are no medical problems associated with your hearing loss. Be wary of companies that will sell hearing aids and dismiss the need for an examination; the distributor may be selling low quality products. Remember, don't feel pressured into buying a hearing aid; ask for more information or a second opinion to ensure you purchase the highest quality products. |
| Where can I buy hearing aids? |
| You can buy hearing aids almost anywhere. Shopping for hearing aids on the Internet is right for many people and may be just the think you need for your hearing aid needs. Click here to shop for hearing aids now! |
| What are the federal standards for hearing aid sales? |
| The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is responsible for monitoring the business practices of audiologists, hearing aid dispensers and hearing aid vendors. The FTC often takes action against companies that mislead or deceive consumers. The law further requires companies offering warranties to fully disclose all terms and conditions of their warranties. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also enforces regulations that deal specifically with the manufacture and sale of hearing aids. According to the FDA, the following conditions must be met by all dispensers before selling a hearing aid: · Dispensers must obtain a written statement from the patient, signed by a licensed physician. The statement must be dated within the previous six months, state that the patient's ears have been medically evaluated, and that the patient is cleared for fitting with a hearing aid. · A patient age 18 years or older can sign a waiver for a medical examination, but dispensers must avoid encouraging the patient to waive the medical evaluation requirement. Dispensers also must advise the patient that waiving the examination is not in his best health interest. · Dispensers must advise patients who appear to have a hearing problem to consult promptly with a physician. · The FDA regulations also require that an instruction brochure be provided with the hearing aid that illustrates and describes its operation, use, and care. The brochure must list sources for repair and maintenance, and include a statement that the use of a hearing aid may be only part of a rehabilitative program. |
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