Finding a solution is the next step when hearing loss is identified in an individual. We advise that if you are receiving treatment for hearing loss, you become acquainted with and educate yourself on all of the prosthetic devices that are available. Given that these are the most common technologies, you have undoubtedly already heard of cochlear implants and hearing aids, but are you aware of their precise differences? Although the goal of both is the same—that is, to enable a person with hearing loss to hear—they differ greatly in terms of the needs of the individual to whom each system is tailored, and their operational mechanisms are also very dissimilar.
An Overview of Cochlear Implants and Hearing Aids
Cochlear implants and hearing aids both improve communication for those who have hearing loss. People with less severe hearing loss and fair speech understanding are best suited for hearing aids, which don't require surgery. People with more severe hearing loss in one or both ears and poor speech understanding are best suited for cochlear implants, which need surgery.
With the use of non-invasive devices called hearing aids, a user can experience sounds that are louder and more clear. With a few exceptions, they only fit into the exterior of the ear canal. They are therefore usually advised for those who have mild to severe hearing loss.
On the other hand, cochlear implants are devices that are surgically inserted to stimulate the auditory nerve directly, avoiding damaged regions of the ear. They are inserted all the way up to the cochlear canal in the ear canal. They are often appropriate for people who have profound to severe hearing loss.
Hearing Aids
Wearing tiny, battery-powered devices in or behind the ear is possible with hearing aidsTrusted Source. By enhancing sound quality, they improve hearing for those with mild to profound hearing loss.
The components of a hearing aid are three:
- a microphone, which picks up sound waves and transforms them into electrical impulses
- a speaker that directs the amplified sound into the person's ear and an amplifier that increases the sound
Cohlear Implants
Cochlear implantsTrusted Source are tiny devices that rest behind the ear; one component is surgically installed beneath the skin, while the other part is composed of strings or electrode arrays inserted into the cochlea of the ear. To fit this, surgeons drill a hole in the skull to secure the implant.
For people with severe hearing loss, these devices directly stimulate the auditory nerve instead of going through the inner ear, creating the impression of sound.
How Do Hearing Aids and Cochlear Implants Differ?
While persons with sensorineural hearing loss are intended to use both cochlear implants and hearing aids, cochlear implants are appropriate for those who do not benefit from hearing aids, according to Dr. Thakkar. According to him, cochlear implants stimulate the auditory nerve by bypassing any damaged parts of the ear, while hearing aids amplify sounds.
It's critical to take into account a number of criteria for people who may be candidates for cochlear implants.
- First, any remaining hearing in the ear that will be implanted will probably be reduced or eliminated throughout the process. If the person has some degree of speech perception in either ear, they should discuss with their otolaryngologist or audiologist whether the possible advantages of the cochlear implant outweigh the risk of losing residual hearing in the implanted ear or ears.
- Second, getting used to cochlear implants can take some getting used to, as they don't quite mimic the sense of natural hearing. People who had cochlear implants later in life reported lower levels of satisfaction and sound quality, according to a 2021 study published in OTO Open. On the other hand, long-term beneficiaries of cochlear implants experienced better sound perception with time.
- An essential factor to take into account for both cochlear implants and hearing aids is cost. A single hearing aid can cost up to $2,000, and Medicare and most private health insurance policies don't cover the expense of these devices. Nonetheless, based on the state and the person's financial situation, Medicaid may occasionally assist with the cost of hearing aids, according to Dr. Thakkar. "Hearing aids are covered by Medi-Cal in the state of California, but only the most basic models—many of which aren't Bluetooth compatible.”
- Before purchasing hearing aids, get in touch with your local Medicaid office or health insurance provider to learn more about the standards and scope of coverage that differ by state.
It's ideal to keep yourself as educated with your hearing aids and a new breakthrough in the technology. Ask your query via Book an Appointment today. For more information visit https://hearing.careinc.ca or you can call us today at (403)605-6300