Before getting fitted for hearing aids, you must have a diagnostic hearing evaluation performed first. The assessment must be performed within three months of a fitting for a hearing aid. For this assessment to commence, the patient is seated in a large room that is soundproof.
Diagnostic Tests
During the testing, audiology experts in Naperville use various tools to determine a patient’s hearing acuity. These evaluation tools may include speech audiometry, pure-tone testing, or impedance testing. For example, impedance audiometry measures air volume in the ear canal so the audiologist can evaluate the type of hearing loss.
While hearing loss can be difficult to cope with, today’s technology enables wearers of hearing aids to enhance their hearing without too much notice. As a result, these devices provide features that allow a person to feel good about using them.
Types of Hearing Aids
Audiology experts can fit patients with various types of hearing aids. These hearing aid styles include the following:
- Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids – These traditional hearing aids address the widest range of hearing loss. The aids wrap behind the back of the ear and are attached to a fitted mold that is placed in the ear canal.
- Open-fit miniature BTEs – These hearing aids are similar to BTEs. However, they do not cover the entire canal, thereby permitting more in the way of natural sound. Because these devices are not customized, they come in varying sizes, depending on the ear’s shape and height.
- In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids – These hearing aids are designed to fill the ear’s outer part. No external tubes or wires are featured in the design.
- In-the-canal (ITC) hearing aids – These hearing aids are not as noticeable as ITE hearing aids. These very small and lightweight devices are molded inside the canal of the ear, thereby channeling sound naturally through the device.
- Complete in-the-canal (CIC) hearing aids – These hearing aids are fitted by audiology experts in Naperville deep within the ear, thereby making them the least noticeable type of hearing aids. Usually, a small cord or handle comes with the device so that it can be easily removed.
If you wish to know more about having a diagnostic hearing evaluation done and discovering the types of hearing aids that are featured, contact us for further details today. The sooner you get a hearing issue corrected, the sooner you can resume living a normal life. Visit Hearing Specialists of Dupage to schedule an appointment!!