Usually, the concept of hearing aids invokes the idea of conventional devices that boost sound through the canal of the ear. But for individuals with specific kinds of hearing loss, especially those coping with chronic ear problems or single-sided deafness, a distinct type of technology could provide better quality and comfort: bone conduction hearing devices.
How Bone Conduction Hearing Devices Work
With bone conduction hearing devices, the outer and middle ear are bypassed. Rather than depending on airwaves to transmit sound, these devices utilize the head’s bones to direct vibrations directly to the cochlea, the inner ear’s sound-processing hub. This means that even if the ear canal is obstructed or damaged, sound can still reach the auditory nerve. Think of it like this: If you’ve ever plugged your ears and still been able to hear your voice when talking, that’s bone conduction.
Bone Conduction vs. Conventional Hearing Aids
Traditional hearing aids boost sound and funnel it through the ear canal. This approach is particularly helpful for individuals who have experienced damage to the inner ear or the nerve in charge of transferring sound, causing sensorineural hearing loss. But if the problem is with the outer or middle ear, as a result of infection, fluid buildup, or structural issues, conventional hearing aids may not be effective or comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are typically a better option in these instances because they bypass the problem areas and send sound straight to your cochlea.
Bone Conduction Candidates
Situations where bone conduction devices are appropraite:
- Conductive hearing loss, when sound has trouble moving through the outer or middle ear at all.
- Persistent ear infections or issues with fluid drainage could be intensified by conventional hearing aids.
- People with misshapen ear canals or missing outer ears, who might not be prospects for conventional devices.
- A condition known as unilateral deafness, where a person experiences substantial or complete hearing loss in one ear. These devices provide a non-invasive alternative that is often more comfortable, particularly for kids and adults who have recurring ear problems.
Implantable vs. Non-Implantable Solutions:
There are two main kinds of bone conduction hearing devices:
- External non-implantable devices are generally secured using a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They are excellent for children, people trying out bone conduction for the first time, or individuals who are not prepared for surgery.
- Surgically implanted devices consist of a tiny device placed beneath the skin, which is linked to a separate sound processor worn outside the body. Long-term users often find that they supply more effective and dependable results. A professional evaluation by an audiologist or ENT specialist will identify the most suitable option for you, taking into account your age, particular anatomy, and personal hearing objectives.
Perks of Employing Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Comfortable for sensitive ears– no need to put anything into the ear canal
- Clear sound quality, despite having chronic ear problems
- Excellent for distinct anatomy– helpful for people born without a full outer ear or with other structural differences
- Enhanced communication is especially beneficial in instructional settings, professional environments, or loud surroundings
If you or your child has difficulty hearing in one or both ears, particularly because of recurring infections or problems with sound transmission, it may be helpful to think about bone conduction hearing devices.
Schedule a consultation with a hearing specialist today.
Sources: https://www.dukehealth.org/treatments/ear-nose-and-throat/bone-conduction-hearing-aid https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/baha–the-implantable- hearing-device https://www.ndcs.org.uk/advice-and-support/all-advice-and-support-topics/hearing-aids- implants-and-assistive-technology/ hearing-aids-and-implants/ bone-conduction-devices https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/14794-bone-anchored-auditory-implant