For many patients with hearing loss, hearing aids are a great solution. Hearing aids amplify sounds based on the patient’s hearing test which allows patients to have better access to sounds and improved speech recognition. Basically, hearing aids aid the patient in hearing better. A cochlear implant, on the other hand, allows patients to hear sounds that are otherwise inaccessible due to the severity of their hearing loss. Not all patients who have hearing loss will need a cochlear implant, however for some it is the next best step once hearing aids are no longer providing substantial benefit. If you are a hearing aid user and answer yes to the following questions, ask your audiologist if a cochlear implant is an option for you:
-Are you returning frequently for hearing aid adjustments?
-Do you struggle on the phone, even with hearing aids?
-Are you withdrawing from social situations and activities because of your hearing loss?
Your audiologist may send you for a cochlear implant evaluation to determine if you qualify for cochlear implantation. Our team at JHBI is here for each step of your hearing journey, don’t hesitate to contact our office if you are interested in learning more.