Hearing problems are generally classified as conductive or "sensorineural". It is conductive when there is problem of sound transmission to the outer or middle ear. Hearing aids with analog technology amplify sound and can readily solve conductive hearing loss problems. But with sensorineural loss, you get something about sound processing problem, caused by cochlear or auditory nerve impairment. This problem calls for the use of digital hearing aids, which employ digital technology.
Common hearing aids use analog technology and they generally come as either conventional or programmable types. Both use the principle of sound amplification by magnifying sound waves. Conventional aids come with a regular volume control for increasing or decreasing sound. While programmable aids basically do the same thing, they have extra features that allow exact fine-tuning and adjusting to an individual's specific needs.
Digital hearing aids have digital circuitry and provide crisp and clear sound. They are programmed based on your unique hearing loss. Its circuitry performs millions of complex calculations in a snap to enable digital processing of sound, canceling noise, feedback and distortion. It converts gathered sound into digital format, then processes it with digital technology and outputs it into your ear as analog sound. These instruments allow for greater flexibility and customization for patients' different needs.
Hearing aids vary in size and shape. But they generally come down to four basic classifications. Behind the ear or BTE models have a plastic casing that houses the electronic parts used for amplification of sound. As the name says, it is worn behind the ear and has a tube that connects to an ear mold for fitting in the ear canal. They are easy to use and commonly recommended for children.
ITE's are also custom made devices that fit inside the outer ear. They can help on a much broader coverage when it comes to hearing loss, from mild to severe. ITC's are much smaller and go further back into bottom half of the external ear. They are almost unnoticeable once worn, and are used for mild to moderate hearing loss issues.
Completely in the canal or CIC models are considered the smallest in size and are virtually invisible to other people since it literally fits further inside your ear canal. But it does require having an ear canal opening large enough to fit this device. They are best for mild to moderate hearing loss.
With so many hearing aids in the market, you ask yourself, where do I start? This is a question that is very difficult to answer since every individual with hearing loss has different needs based on the degree of hearing loss they have, their way of life, and the mode of communication they experience everyday.
One cannot base his decision by comparing the experience and review of others regarding their hearing aids. A certain model may be good for them, but that does not necessarily mean that it is good for you too. Only by taking hearing tests and proper evaluation can you truly specify what your needs are in order to choose the right device.
It is best to consult a doctor, audiologist or hearing instrument specialist before making any purchase of hearing aids. They are all qualified to help you out and give you advice about analog and digital hearing aids, and how they can make your life better.
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