Hearing Aids

What types of hearing loss are there?

There are three primary kinds of hearing loss:

• Conductive: When the middle or outer ear is prevented from bringing sound to the inner ear
• Sensorineural: When the brain, auditory nerve, or inner ear can't distinguish between different sounds
• Mixed: A combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss

What hearing loss solutions are there?

The three main solutions to hearing loss are:

• Hearing aids
• Cochlear implants
• Baha procedure

What is a hearing aid?

A hearing aid is a tiny computerized mechanism placed either behind or inside the ear. It amplifies sound to allow for a fuller auditory experience.

A hearing aid has 3 main features:

• A microphone
• Amplifying device
• Speaker

A hearing aid collects sound with the microphone and converts it into computerized signals. The microphone sends these signals to the amplifier, which boosts the power of the signals for easier hearing through the speaker component.

What’s the difference between analog and digital hearing aids?

Hearing aids come in 2 basic forms, digital or analog.

• Digital: Transforms sound into a code of numbers, then back to sound, allowing you to strengthen only the frequencies that give you trouble.
• Analog: Converts the vibrations into electrical signals, allowing you to make them louder

What kinds of digital and analog hearing aids are available?

Both analog and digital hearing aids use either behind-the-ear, open-fit, or in-the-ear devices.

• Behind-the-ear: Contains a plastic casing worn behind the ear
• Open-fit: Worn behind the ear, as well, but they have a slender tube placed inside the ear canal; these allow the canal to remain clear
• In-the-ear: Fit entirely within the outer ear

What are the major hearing aid brands and special offers?

• Starkey: Offers a free 30-day trial
• MiracleEar: Free 45-day trial
• Belltone: Free 45-day trial
• ReSound: Free 30-day trial

Some of these special offers also include free financing.

What are Cochlear Implants?

Cochlear Implants are devices that give immediate electrical stimulation to the auditory nerve in the inner ear and require surgery.

What is a Baha Procedure?

The Baha procedure is a state-of-the-art technology to remedy hearing impairment. This procedure transfers sound to the inner ear through the bones of the skull.

What is audiology diagnostic testing?

This is a service held on site by Drs. Marlowe and Marrs, and involves an in-depth testing procedure to pinpoint the exact nature of a patient's hearing problems. The doctors recommend regular hearing tests for patients age 50 and older. Early detection is key to developing a successful treatment plan. Call or schedule an appointment online at Marlowe & Marrs Ear, Nose & Throat - Center for Hearing.