Hearing Aids in Bristol, CT

Hearing aids are the electro-acoustic devices in Bristol that are typically fitted inside or behind a person's ear, for amplifying and modulating sound for the wearer.

Hearing aids vary largely in size, power and circuitry in Bristol. The various types of hearing aids are-

Body worn aids, Behind the ear aids (BTE), In the ear aids (ITE), Receiver In the Canal/Ear (CRT/RIC/RITE), In the canal (ITC), mini canal (MIC) and completely in the canal aids (CIC), Invisible In canal hearing aids (IIC), Extended wear hearing aids, Open-fit devices, Personal, User, Self, or Consumer Programmable hearing aids, Disposable hearing aids, Bone Anchored Hearing Aids (BAHA) & Eyeglass aids.

Hearing aids cannot correct a hearing loss. These can only make sound better audible. There are two primary issues that interfere with the effectiveness of hearing aids:

1. Inability of the primary auditory cortex of the brain to receive regular stimulation- Loss of cells in this area, responsible for processing sound is directly proportional to the degree of hearing loss.

2. The damaged hair cells of the inner ear resulting in sensori-neural hearing loss & affecting the ability to discriminate between sounds- This often leads to a reduced ability to perceive speech, and simple amplification of speech is often insufficient to improve understanding of such speech.

Hearing aids often pose discomfort to the users. The most significant of these are -The occlusion effect, which is common for new users, can be nullified in a few weeks by wearing the device on a regular basis. If the problem persists longer, one must consult an audiologist, who will tune the device further. Also, multiple follow-up visits to the audiologist are required as the initial fitting appointment is rarely enough. An up to date audiogram is also recommended at the time of purchase & fitting of the aid.