Whether buying a new pair of hearing aids or getting your first pair for an elderly loved one, there are some things to remember when choosing them. These factors will help you make the best choice.
Noise-cancelling
Using noise-canceling features in hearing aids can improve speech intelligibility in the presence of background noise. These features are also crucial to hearing aid users, who may spend most of their day in a noisy environment. In addition to identifying and eliminating background noise, noise-canceling hearing aids can improve speech intelligibility by boosting dynamic sounds. Adaptive noise reduction also improves listener comfort. A new generation of hearing aids like Oticon OPN hearing aids includes more advanced technology that can improve sound quality and speech intelligibility in specific environments. A small computer chip in the hearing aid analyzes sounds in the background and determines which ones are dynamic and static. The chip then reduces noise by applying algorithms designed to increase the signal-to-noise ratio. These algorithms can be implemented in various hearing aids, from simple filtering to advanced signal-processing techniques. The committee agreed that further research is necessary to understand the impact of noise-canceling features in hearing aids. The guideline committee evaluated noise-canceling features in hearing aids regarding health-related quality of life. They considered ease of use, hearing-specific health-related quality of life, and safety.
Directional microphones
Using directional microphones in hearing aids can improve the signal-to-noise ratio by up to six dB. However, before making a purchase decision, you must know how directional microphones work. Directional microphones can be simple or complex. They use two or more microphones to select and attenuate sounds according to their location and angle of incidence. Simple directional microphones focus on a fixed point in front of the user. More advanced directional microphones are adaptive and use a sound processor to highlight speech sounds. These microphones can increase the volume of speech sounds and reduce unwanted background noise. They also allow the hearing aid to focus on the person in front of you. Directional microphones can be either manually engaged or automatically engaged. In the case of the former, the microphone will be employed when there is a noticeable amount of background noise. The most critical clinical issue is the correct selection of technology. In addition to directional microphones, numerous technology solutions are available to improve the SNR in a hearing aid. Some of these solutions involve wireless communication, wireless microphones, and accessories.
Microprocessor
Unlike most of the processors in the market, a microprocessor in hearing aids is specially designed for audio processing. It can differentiate between sounds at different frequencies and amplify certain sounds. It also helps to reduce background noise.
Today’s hearing aids are complex devices. They have multiple parts, including a microphone, receiver, processor, and speaker. They must also be small. Modern hearing aids have one or two sensitive microphones. These microphones collect natural sound from the surrounding environment and transmit it to a processor. The processor can then amplify the sounds and adjust them to match the user’s hearing loss. Depending on the model, the processor may also help to reduce background noise.
The processor can also help to improve speech recognition. It is a signal-processing algorithm designed to increase the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). It can also cancel feedback and adjust sounds to match the user’s hearing loss.
Bluetooth technology
Using Bluetooth technology in hearing aids makes it possible to connect to various devices in your home or on the go. This technology can also improve the quality of sound sent to your hearing aids and help you enjoy your favorite music, movies, or audiobooks more efficiently. Bluetooth technology uses multiple channels to send sounds through an invisible electronic signal. The technology also uses Bluetooth Low Energy, which maintains a short-range connection without consuming much battery power. Bluetooth can also be used to transfer data from one device to another. In this case, the most apparent uses include connecting your hearing aids to your cell phone, computer, and television. This way, you can watch TV, listen to music, and make and receive phone calls. Bluetooth technology in hearing aids may not be for everyone, but it can be a valuable tool for anyone with hearing difficulties. These devices can help improve speech audibility and reduce the amount of background noise, which can interfere with your hearing ability. Bluetooth is also available on several hearing aid models. Some models have a smartphone app, which lets you control the microphone’s volume and change the program from the streamer.
Earwax buildup can affect the size of your hearing aids
An earwax buildup can lead to hearing loss, pain, and irritation. This condition is a common problem for attending aid users. However, there are a few things you can do to prevent it. The first thing you can do is clean your hearing aids daily. Using a brush will help to remove wax and debris. Aside from cleaning your hearing aids, you should also check your ear canal regularly. If you notice any signs of earwax buildup, take your device to your otolaryngologist for evaluation. Try a wax softening drop. This solution is placed in your ear and drains for five minutes. Debrox and Murine are two examples of this type of product. Earwax buildup can also block the tubes or receivers in your hearing aid. This can prevent the device from properly functioning. It can also cause feedback and damage the receivers. If the blockage is severe, it may require medical attention. Your otolaryngologist can remove the wax without hurting your eardrum. You may also need cerumenolytic agents.
