Discover the fascinating science behind how hearing aids function to improve hearing in people with hearing loss. This comprehensive guide will unravel the intricate workings of these technologically advanced devices, highlighting their features, types, and benefits.

Introduction

Hearing aids are far more than sound amplifiers. They're designed to not just amplify sounds but also to make them more understandable by filtering out background noise and enhancing speech comprehension. These are advanced communication devices that use sophisticated technology to aid in sound perception and comprehension. In this article, we will take a deep dive into the science behind how these devices work.

Understanding the Makeup of Hearing Aids

Hearing aids, at their core, consist of five basic components that collaborate to deliver better sound to those with hearing loss. These components include:

• Microphone: This picks up the surrounding sounds.
• Amplifier: This enhances the sounds picked up by the microphone.
• Speaker: The amplified sounds are then transmitted by the speaker into the inner ear.
• Battery: The battery powers the hearing aid.
• Computer Processor: This is programmed by us to ensure the hearing aid works as per your individual hearing loss and needs.

These components form the base of hearing aids, but the quality of sound and speech understanding can significantly vary across different types of devices.

Advanced Features and Connections

Modern hearing aids come packed with extra features like automatic volume regulation, noise management, feedback suppression, and extended bandwidths, all aimed at providing a more natural listening experience.

Plus, with advancements in technology, hearing aids are now capable of connecting to your mobile devices via Bluetooth. This connectivity feature allows you to control your devices, stream music, and even connect to your television, allowing you to use hearing aids like bluetooth headphones.

Why Choose Hearing Aids?

Hearing aids not only assist in better sound comprehension but can also contribute to your overall health. By making sounds understandable, they reduce the strain on your brain, making listening easier. They help in reducing the symptoms of hearing loss, improving comfort levels, and even mitigating some other associated medical conditions.

How We Fit You for Hearing Aids

The Audiologists at Sioux Falls Audiology Associates are experts in hearing aid evaluations and fittings. We conduct a hearing test to determine the degree and type of your hearing loss and whether you could benefit from hearing aids. If you're a candidate for hearing aids, we will then perform a custom hearing aid fitting to ensure that the device suits your needs and provides a comfortable fit.

Where to Buy Hearing Aids

We offer a wide range of hearing aids at Sioux Falls Audiology Associates. Thanks to a recent FDA ruling, you can now also buy over-the-counter hearing aids without an exam, prescription, or professional fitting. However, we still recommend getting your hearing aids from us so that we can program them for your hearing loss and give you expert, professional help for the entire life of the hearing aid.

Some more resources about hearing aid options:

• Prescription vs OTC Hearing Aids
• The 3 Most Important Hearing Aid Features
  

Prescription Hearing Aids vs. Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids

Over-the-counter hearing aids are more affordable and can be beneficial for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss. However, these devices are not customizable. On the other hand, prescription hearing aid devices are fully customizable and can be adjusted to meet the unique hearing needs of the user. To get a custom hearing aid, you'll need an exam, prescription, and professional hearing aid fitting.

Different Styles of Hearing Aids

Hearing aids come in several styles, including in-the-ear (ITE), behind-the-ear (BTE), and multiple custom in-the-ear models (IIC, CIC, ITC, ITE). The most popular style today is the receiver-in-the-canal (RIC), which is similar to a BTE, but typically more comfortable and discreet.

Each style serves the same basic purpose — to amplify sounds in a way that they're audible to individuals with hearing loss. However, the choice of style can depend on various factors like the degree of hearing loss, ear size, aesthetics, and the user's lifestyle.

Do Hearing Aids Improve Hearing?

Hearing aids primarily aim to improve your hearing. However, they may not be effective for more severe hearing issues. In such cases, medical interventions like surgery may be necessary. It's crucial to have a realistic understanding of what hearing aids can and can't do. They aren't a permanent fix for hearing loss and can't restore your hearing to normal, but they can significantly improve your ability to hear in many situations.

How Sound is Processed in Hearing Aids

Hearing aids use two types of electronics, analog and digital, to process sound. First, the microphone on the hearing aids picks up the sounds around you. The sound is then sent to an amplifier, where they're made louder. Finally, the amplified sound is pushed into your ear through a speaker, so you can hear it.

Hearing Aids in Sioux Falls and Wentworth

Understanding how hearing aids work can help you appreciate the intricacies of these devices and how they can enhance your hearing experience. Sioux Falls Audiology Associates is dedicated to providing you with the latest in hearing aid technology tailored to meet your individual needs. Schedule an appointment today for a hearing test or to try the latest hearing aids. We have locations in Sioux Falls, SD, and Wentworth, SD. Call us at 605-306-3050 to improve your hearing experience.