Hearing loss is not uncommon anymore, as millions suffer from this problem worldwide. It can damage one’s quality of life, so booking an appointment with an ENT doctor and treating it becomes essential. However, you have two primary options to fix the problem: hearing aids and cochlear implants. Each one is designed to meet different problems. So, let’s get an idea about each of these treatments and understand which would be the best choice.
What Are Hearing Aids?
If you suffer from mild to severe hearing loss, the ENT specialist will prescribe hearing aids to amplify sound. These devices have a microphone, amplifier, and speaker, improving hearing clarity. These are mostly preferred as they are non-invasive, customizable, capable of filtering background noise, and start functioning immediately after fitting. But, it is true that they work by boosting sound signals, so a lot will depend on your ability to process sound.
What Are Cochlear Implants?
If you suffer from severe to profound hearing loss, it can lead to cochlear implants. These are surgically implanted devices meant for the ones for whom the hearing aids do not work. So, even if you have damaged ear parts, this device can directly stimulate the auditory nerve, and the sound signals go directly to the brain for processing. However, one needs to learn how to adjust and use cochlear implants. Also, the hearing experience is quite different from the natural ability to hear. On the other hand, it can help restore the ability to perceive speech easily.
Key Differences
There are some significant differences between the two. We have highlighted some major ones below:
- Hearing aids can address mild to severe hearing loss; however, cochlear implants are prescribed only when the patient for whom the hearing aid becomes ineffective is suffering from profound hearing loss.
- A hearing aid amplifies sound, whereas a cochlear implant is meant to process sound into electrical signals, which are subsequently transmitted to the auditory nerve.
- The hearing aids are non-invasive and meant to be attached to the ear externally, whereas the cochlear implants are implanted surgically.
- Hearing aids are generally less expensive and the maintenance process is also quite easy, whereas cochlear implants require ongoing care and also involve a higher upfront cost.
When you suffer from hearing loss, it is essential to consult with an audiologist or ENT specialist through https://earnosethroat.com.sg/cochlear-implant-specialist-singapore. They would perform a different diagnostic process, which involves physical examinations and scans to determine the best treatment.
Choosing the Right Option
If you want to decide which one should you pick – a hearing aid or a cochlear implant, then it depends on several factors, such as:
- The severity of hearing loss, whether there are damaged ear parts or nervous injury.
- Lifestyle requirements: Hearing aids allow immediate improvement, but cochlear implants may require months to
Final Words
The ENT specialist would also perform hearing tests to determine which option would provide the most effective result and best fit your condition. Regaining auditory function will improve your quality of life and make you feel confident. Book your appointment today.