Key Hearing Aid Terms Defined

Are you planning on investing in hearing aids?

If the answer is yes, it can feel overwhelming at first. There are numerous options available, and the confusing terminology doesn’t help.

That’s why we’re going to make clear the most common and significant terms, so when you work with your hearing professional you’ll be prepared to pick out the best hearing aid for you.

Hearing loss and testing

High-frequency hearing loss – this is the most commonly encountered type of hearing loss. Patients with high-frequency hearing loss have the most difficulties hearing higher frequency sounds, such as the sounds of speech.

Sensorineural hearing loss – this type of hearing loss occurs when there is damage to the nerve cells of the inner ear. This is the most common type of permanent hearing loss caused by direct exposure to loud noise, the aging process, genetics, or other medical conditions.

Bilateral hearing loss – hearing loss in both ears, which may be symmetrical (the same degree of loss in both ears) or asymmetrical (different degrees of loss in each ear). Bilateral hearing loss is almost always best treated with two hearing aids.

Audiogram – the diagram which provides a visual description of your hearing assessment results. The vertical axis measures decibels (volume) and the horizontal axis measures frequencies (pitch). The hearing consultant documents the lowest decibel level that you can hear at each frequency. If you necessitate higher volumes to hear higher frequencies, your audiogram will show a sequence of high-frequency hearing loss.

Decibel (dB) – the unit utilized to measure sound level or intensity. Ordinary conversation registers at approximately 60 decibels, and continuous direct exposure to any sound over 80 decibels could lead to permanent hearing loss. Seeing as the scale is logarithmic, an increase of 6-10 decibels doubles the volume of the sound.

Frequency – represents pitch as measured in hertz. Picture moving up the keys on a piano, from left to right (low-frequency/pitch to high-frequency/pitch).

Threshold of hearing – The lowest decibel level that can be perceived at each individual frequency.

Degree of hearing loss – Hearing loss can be categorized as mild (26-40 dB loss), moderate (41-55), severe (71-90), or profound (91+).

Tinnitus – a chronic ringing or buzzing in the ears when no exterior sound is present. Usually a sign of hearing injury or loss.

Hearing aid styles

Digital hearing aid – hearing aids that include a digital microchip, utilized to custom-program the hearing aids to match each person’s distinctive hearing loss.

Hearing aid style – the type of hearing aid characterized by its size and location in relation to the ear. Main styles include behind-the-ear, in-the-ear, and in-the-canal.

Behind the ear (BTE) hearing aids – the majority of hearing aid components are contained within a case that fits behind the ear, connected to an earmold by a clear plastic tube. Mini-BTE hearing aids are also available.

In the ear (ITE) hearing aids – the hearing aid components are contained inside of a case that fits in the external part of the ear.

In the canal (ITC) hearing aids – the hearing aid parts are contained in a case that fits within the ear canal. Completely-in-the-canal (CIC) hearing aids are also obtainable that are practically invisible when worn.

Hearing aid parts

Earmold – a piece of plastic, acrylic, or other soft material that is molded to the curves of the patient’s ears, used for the fitting of hearing aids.

Microphone – the hearing aid part that picks up sound in the environment and converts the sound waves into an electrical signal.

Digital signal processor – a specialized microprocessor inside a hearing aid that can manipulate and enhance sound.

Amplifier – the component of the hearing aid that increases the volume of sound.

Speaker – the hearing aid component that supplies the magnified sound to the ear.

Wireless antenna – available in specific hearing aids, allowing for wireless connectivity to compatible equipment such as mobile phones and music players.

Hearing aid advanced features

Variable programming – hearing aid programming that enables the individual to adjust sound settings depending on the environment (e.g. at home versus in a congested restaurant).

Directional microphones – microphones that can focus on sound originating from a specified location while minimizing background noise.

Telecoils – a coil placed within the hearing aid that allows it to hook up to wireless signals emanating from telephones, assistive listening devices, and hearing loops installed in public venues.

Noise reduction – functionality that helps the hearing aid to distinguish speech sounds from background noise, which results in the enhancement of speech and the suppression of distracting noise.

Bluetooth technology – enables the hearing aid to communicate wirelessly with several devices, such as smartphones, computers, MP3 players, and other compatible devices.

Uncertain of which features you need, or which you could live without? Let us help you discover the ideal hearing aid for your unique needs. Give us a call today!