How Do Hearing Aids Work?

It’s easy to think of a hearing aid as just a tiny speaker that someone sticks into their ear. However, these devices are impressive engineering feats that function like miniature computers.

If you’re dealing with hearing loss or phantom sound called tinnitus, understanding the mechanics can make the transition to wearing them much smoother. They don’t just turn up the volume on the world. They actually filter and shape sound so your brain can make sense of it again.

The Primary Components Inside the Shell

While they come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, almost every hearing aid relies on a few core parts to do the job. Each piece is essential to the device's correct functioning. The main parts of a hearing aid include:

• Microphone
• Amplifier
• Receiver
• Battery

Everything starts with the microphone. This part sits on the outside of the device and picks up acoustic sound waves from the environment. It then converts those waves into electrical signals.

Once that’s done, the amplifier or processor takes over. This is the unit's brain. It amplifies the microphone's signal. However, it first analyzes the sound to determine which parts need to be louder and which don’t. Then, the device turns those boosted electrical signals back into sound waves that travel through your ear canal.

Digital Technology Has Changed the Way Hearing Loss Is Addressed

Older hearing aids were analog. They made sounds louder without any nuance or interpretation. Today’s devices are typically digital and can convert sound signals into a digital code with a level of precision that was impossible even 20 years ago.

Because they’re digital, your provider can program the devices to meet your specific needs. Everyone’s hearing is unique. Some people struggle to hear deep voices. Others can’t hear high-pitched birds chirping well or at all. A hearing screening allows your provider to map out exactly where you need help. The digital processor then uses that map to boost only the frequencies you are missing. This makes the sound feel much more natural and clear.

Special Features That Help in the Real World

Life is noisy. If you’re in a crowded grocery store or a busy park, you don’t want to hear every single cart rattling or dog barking. Modern aids have features that help you focus on the important sounds. You might find these features in your device:

• Directional microphones
• Feedback suppression
• Noise reduction
• Bluetooth connectivity

Directional microphones are helpful in conversations. They pick up sound in front of you while ignoring noise behind and around you. Feedback suppression is another big advance in hearing aid technology. It prevents the high-pitched whistling sound that was common with older hearing aids.

Powering the Devices

All the processing of today’s hearing aids requires a steady stream of power. Most devices use either small disposable batteries or rechargeable internal batteries.

Rechargeable models have become very popular because you can just set them on a dock at night. This is often a better choice for people who find it hard to handle tiny objects.

Talk With Your Primary Care Provider About Hearing Loss

Choosing the right technology starts by talking with your primary care provider. They, or a hearing specialist they refer you to, can help you select a hearing aid that fits your lifestyle and your specific level of hearing loss. They’ll also handle any fine-tuning required to ensure the device is comfortable and meets your needs.

If you want to find a Baptist Health audiologist in your area, please call 1.844.679.6835 or visit our provider directory.