When most individuals think about hearing aids, they think of conventional devices that boost sound through the ear canal. But for individuals with specific types of hearing loss, especially those dealing with chronic ear problems or single-sided deafness, a different kind of technology could offer better clarity and comfort: bone conduction hearing devices.
The Functionality of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
With bone conduction hearing devices, the outer and middle ear are bypassed. Rather than depending on airwaves to transmit sound, these devices utilize the skull’s bones to direct vibrations directly to the cochlea, the inner ear’s sound-processing center. This allows sound to reach the auditory nerve even if there is a blockage or injury in the ear canal. Think about this example: When you put your hands over your ears and are still able to hear the sound of your own voice while talking, that’s an example of bone conduction working.
Bone Conduction vs. Conventional Hearing Aids
Standard hearing aids increase sound and direct it into the ear canal. This works effectively for people who have sensorineural hearing loss, where the inner ear or auditory nerve is damaged. However, if there are issues with the outer or middle ear caused by infection, fluid accumulation, or structural concerns, conventional hearing aids may not work efficiently or be comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are often a more reliable alternative in such situations as they steer clear of the problematic areas and transmit sound directly to the cochlea.
Bone Conduction Candidates
Bone conduction devices are beneficial for:
- Conductive hearing loss, when sound has difficulty traveling through the outer or middle ear at all.
- Relentless ear infections or problems with fluid drainage could be intensified by conventional hearing aids.
- Individuals with deformed ear canals or the absence of outer ears, who might not qualify for conventional devices.
- A condition called unilateral deafness, where an individual experiences substantial or total hearing loss in one ear. These devices provide a non-intrusive option that is frequently more comfortable, especially for people, both young and old, who experience frequent ear issues.
Options that include implantable and non-implantable techniques:
There are two primary kinds of bone conduction hearing devices:
- Non-implantable (worn externally): These are usually kept in place with a headband, softband, or sticky pad. They’re ideal for children, people trying bone conduction for the first time, or people not prepared for surgery.
- Surgically embeded devices consist of a tiny device inserted underneath the skin, which is connected to a separate sound processor mounted outside the body. They usually provide stronger performance and stability for long-term users. A professional assessment by an audiologist or ENT specialist will identify the most appropriate option for you, considering your age, particular anatomy, and personal hearing objectives.
Advantages of Using Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Suitable for sensitive ears – does not necessitate insertion into the ear canal
- Good audio quality stays consistent, despite recurring problems with the ears
- Perfect for those with distinct physical attributes – this option is especially beneficial for individuals with congenital conditions impacting the outer ear or other physiological variations.
- Improved communication– especially in school, work, or noisy settings
If you or your child has trouble hearing in one or both ears, particularly because of ongoing infections or problems with sound transmission, it may be beneficial to think about bone conduction hearing devices.
Schedule an assessment 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