Hearing Aids vs. Cochlear Implants: What’s the Difference?

Cochlear implants and hearing aids are both common treatment options for hearing loss. Both of them come with unique sets of benefits, and the option you choose will largely depend on the extent of your hearing loss, when it occurs and your specific preferences and needs. Hearing aids tend to be the usual solution for those who have hearing loss. That being said, if you have severe hearing loss or if you are deaf, then cochlear implants may be the better solution.

Hearing Aids Can Be Removed

Hearing aids are very small devices that are worn in, or around the ear. They amplify sound so that it is louder and easier to hear. If you visit an audiologist, then they will diagnose you and you will go through all of the hearing aids that are available. They will then program the device while making sure that it fits comfortably. Hearing aids are designed to help those who have hearing loss at a mild or moderate level. They help the person in question participate in conversation. That being said, if you have profound hearing loss, then there are other options out there.

The Benefits of Getting a Hearing Aid Fitted

One of the main benefits that come with getting a hearing aid fitted is that they are easy to use and non-invasive. You don’t need surgery and you can adjust them to suit your needs as a wearer. Hearing aids can be programmed so that they filter out background noise and so that they amplify different frequencies. This makes it easier than ever for you to hear, even in noisy environments. In addition to all of this, hearing aids tend to be more affordable when compared to cochlear implants.

When Amplification Isn’t Enough

One thing to take note of is that hearing aids do come with limitations. They may not be suited to those who have severe hearing loss as they rely on the residual hearing of the person in question, in order to work properly. Hearing aids may not be able to restore your normal hearing, and they cannot provide the same sound quality that cochlear implants can. If your hearing loss is severe, then you may be better off opting for a cochlear implant.

For Profound Hearing Loss

A cochlear implant is much more advanced, and they are suited to individuals who have profound hearing loss. Hearing aids amplify sound, but cochlear implants bypass the damaged cells within the ear and stimulate the auditory nerve directly. This allows the wearer to hear certain sounds, that might have been inaudible otherwise.

The Benefits of Getting Cochlear Implants Fitted

Cochlear implants are normally recommended for those who cannot benefit from a normal hearing aid. They are also suited to those who do not have any residual hearing left. They are implanted by a surgeon, known as an otolaryngologist. A cochlear implant consists of two components. You have an external processor, and this sits right behind the ear. You also have an internal implant. This is placed underneath the skin. The external processor works by picking up the sound, before processing it and sending it directly to the implant inside. This then sends signals to the auditory nerve. One of the major benefits that come with getting this type of implant is that it can give you a very wide range of sound frequencies. You also have a much more natural sound quality. This is great for individuals who have a profound level of hearing loss, and who need more help in order to participate in conversations properly.

The Limitations of Cochlear Implants

Just like hearing aids, it’s important to know that cochlear implants do come with their own limitations. They require surgery to get implanted and this alone comes with complications. In addition to this, they do tend to cost more than hearing aids. The external processing unit and the internal implant have to be checked and updated on a regular basis. Normal hearing aids do require maintenance, but cochlear implants require even more, so it’s important to keep this in mind when making your decision.

For the most part, normal hearing aids will be the best solution. They cover most levels of hearing loss, and cochlear implants tend to be suited to those who have a very high level of hearing loss. An audiologist will always work with you to make sure that you are getting the right hearing aid, and to ensure that it fits properly so you can get the best result out of your purchase.

If you want to know more about your options then contact the Quality Hearing Aid Center at (248) 430-8791.