What You Should Know About Hearing Aids
You might be wondering how hearing aids work. These devices have several features, including an amplifier that amplifies sound and vibrating technology that converts acoustic sound into an electrical signal. In addition, they are adjustable so that you can wear them comfortably and can even be connected to smartphones for tinnitus relief. Read on to find out how these products work. You may be pleasantly surprised.
Amplifies electrical signal.
Amplifiers in hearing aids are electronic circuit components that boost the electrical signal. Audio signals fluctuate at a specific rate and are measured in hertz. As such, amplifiers work best at particular frequencies. For example, quality hearing aids can increase the volume of audio signals to four times as much as a guitar would require a separate amplifier.
The power and design of an amplifier will determine how much current it will draw. Depending on the type of signal, the amplifier must boost the call to an acceptable level without causing distortion, making it unrecognizable. Therefore, an amplifier can be small and not consume too much power. The current requirement for an amplifier will vary according to the power level of the hearing aid.
The electrical signal from the microphone in a hearing aid is fed into an amplifier. This amplifier boosts the signal several times before sending it to a tiny loudspeaker in the ear canal. In turn, this signal is then converted into audible sounds. Finally, the microphone and amplifier send these signals to a tiny loudspeaker in the ear canal. The amplifier is made of small components easily hidden in the ear canal and amplifies the signals from faraway sources.
Vibrations change the acoustic (sound) signal into a mechanical (electrical).
During the hearing process, sound waves travel along the basilar membrane, which extends along the cochlea, a snail-shaped organ in the inner ear. As the membrane stretches from base to apex, its mechanical properties change monotonically, resulting in different resonant frequencies at each location. As a result, high and low frequencies have different resonant frequencies, and the amplitude of vibrations is highest near the base.
The acoustic (sound) signal sent by cochlear implants is converted into a mechanical (electric) signal by vibrations. Because cochlear implants work in a specific frequency range, this impacts speech and music perception. The energy contained in higher harmonics determines a fundamental frequency. This is why cochlear implants’ frequency range maximizes speech and music perception.
Adjust to their comfort level.
Hearing aids require a few adjustments. While modern devices are relatively comfortable, there may be some initial discomforts. For example, you may not be able to hear sounds as clearly as usual. Still, you should notice a noticeable difference in the clarity of sounds immediately after they are inserted. For example, you may listen to birds singing better, your voice sounding more precise, and the clock ticking faster. Your brain will also adjust to the improved sounds and begin prioritizing them in your environment.
Once you are adjusted to your hearing aid’s volume and frequency, you can start making a test of your voice quality. First, try talking out loud to get an idea of what book is comfortable for you. Next, ask others around you if their voice sounds too high, and adjust accordingly. Eventually, you’ll find that the volume is just right for you. You can then make further adjustments as you get used to using it.
Help with tinnitus.
The hearing aids are small and comfortable to wear, seated inside the ear canal. These hearing aids are rechargeable and connect to a smartphone app through Bluetooth, allowing them to control the volume and stream music and phone calls. In addition, their advanced technology uses a network embedded in the chip to recognize over 12 million different sounds. These features help people with tinnitus manage their condition more effectively by providing the right sound to the brain.
However, the smartphone connection can be tricky for some users. If you’re interested in learning how to use your smartphone with hearing aids, consult your hearing care provider about the different wireless accessories available. HAC smartphones are compatible with Widex hearing aids and may be an ideal option for those who use them regularly. Additionally, finding the best position to hold your smartphone may take some practice. For example, having the phone close to your hearing aid microphones may reduce the whistling.
