Tuesday, June 22, 2010

A classification of hearing assist devices

Hearing complications can be many, and hence hearing assist devices have to be many to suit the requirement of the person with hearing disorders. In recent years, there has been a great development in hearing aid technology. As a result, you can find hearing aids with enhanced features in medical supply stores, and the size of the device shrinking gradually. A hearing loss can be of different types, and therefore, it is important to select a hearing aid device that can optimally solve the problem of the individual. Each hearing aid has unique functions and cannot be generalized. Depending on the level of hearing loss, a device has to be recommended, which can only be done by a specialist.
There are two main categories of hearing devices, analogue and digital hearing aid devices. Digital hearing aid has greater advantage when compared to its analogue counterpart. In a digital hearing aid, the sound is converted into bits and is amplified according to the need of the user. According to patients' requirement, the hearing device can be tuned and can be adjust automatically to suit the environment. How is this made possible? This is done with the help of a micro computer integrated in the device.
The concept of hearing assist devices is not new, and it has been in usage for a number of years now. But, digital hearing aid is absolutely a new concept, and this has created a revolution in the field of hearing assist devices. They have been given new terminology depending on their function, like hearing amplifiers, Digital hearing aids, digital aids, et all.
Analogue hearing aids can be used if you are on a strict budget. Of course, they do give you great value for the money spent. Similar to the digital hearing aids, even analogue devices can be programmed to amplify sound, but in the former, the sound can be amplified to a greater level.
Hearing aids can be further classified into three types, In the canal (ITC), In the ear (ITE), and behind the ear (BTE) hearing devices. Each have their own functions to perform. In the canal hearing device is tailor made to suit the shape and size of the users' ear canal. They are hidden inside the ear canal and nothing is visible outside. This is recommended for patients with severe hearing complications and are not suitable for children.
The next type, In the ear hearing aid fits in the outer ear. The electronic components are encased in a plastic compartment and placed at the outer part of the ear. Finally, the Ear Hearing Devices are the oldest of the lot. They can be fitted behind the ear with a wire that connects to the earmold, which is further fixed inside the outer part of the ear. These are highly recommended for children and people of all ages.
If you experience hearing loss, get the assistance of a hearing aid specialist and buy the best and suitable HAD.

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