Are you unsure about what an audiogram is and how hearing aid fitting works?
If you’re feeling confused about the terms “audiogram” and “hearing aid fitting,” you’re not alone. These terms can be unfamiliar and intimidating if you’re new to the world of hearing health. But fear not! We’re here to break it down for you in simple terms and help you understand these essential aspects of audiology.
Let’s start with the basics: What is an audiogram?
An audiogram is a graph that shows your hearing ability across different frequencies. Think of it as a visual representation of how well you can hear various sounds. The audiogram is typically created during a hearing test, where you wear headphones and respond to different tones or words. The audiologist will plot your responses on the graph to show the softest sounds you can hear at each frequency.
How does the audiogram work?
The graph of an audiogram has two main components: frequency and intensity. Frequency is measured in hertz (Hz) and represents the pitch of sounds, ranging from low to high. Intensity is measured in decibels (dB) and represents the loudness of sounds, ranging from soft to loud. The audiogram will have different symbols or lines to indicate the thresholds at which you can hear each frequency.
What do the results of an audiogram mean?
When you look at your audiogram, you’ll see a series of symbols or lines at different frequencies and intensities. These symbols represent your hearing thresholds, which are the softest sounds you can hear at each frequency. Based on your audiogram results, your audiologist can determine the type and degree of your hearing loss. This information is crucial for recommending the right treatment, such as hearing aids.
Understanding the different types of hearing loss
Hearing loss can be classified into different types based on the part of the auditory system that is affected. The audiogram helps identify the specific type of hearing loss you have, which influences the choice of hearing aids and fitting process.
Conductive hearing loss
Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound waves cannot travel efficiently through the outer or middle ear to the inner ear. This type of hearing loss is often caused by blockages, infections, or abnormalities in the ear canal or middle ear. A conductive hearing loss audiogram will show better hearing thresholds at lower frequencies and poorer thresholds at higher frequencies.
Sensorineural hearing loss
Sensorineural hearing loss affects the inner ear (cochlea) or the auditory nerve and is typically permanent. This type of hearing loss results from damage to the sensory hair cells in the cochlea or the nerve pathways to the brain. A sensorineural hearing loss audiogram will show poorer hearing thresholds across all frequencies.
Mixed hearing loss
Mixed hearing loss is a combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss, involving problems in both the outer/middle ear and inner ear/nerve. This type of hearing loss requires a comprehensive audiological assessment to determine the underlying causes and appropriate treatment options.
Understanding your audiogram for personalized hearing aid fitting
Your audiogram provides valuable information about the type and degree of hearing loss you have, which guides the selection and fitting of hearing aids. It’s essential to work closely with your audiologist to interpret your audiogram results accurately and choose the right hearing aids that meet your specific needs.
How does hearing aid fitting work?
Now that you have a better understanding of the audiogram and different types of hearing loss, let’s dive into the process of hearing aid fitting. This personalized procedure involves selecting, programming, and adjusting hearing aids to optimize your hearing experience based on your audiogram results.
Selecting the right hearing aids
During the initial consultation, your audiologist will consider your audiogram results, lifestyle, preferences, and budget to help you choose the most suitable hearing aids. There are different types of hearing aids, including behind-the-ear (BTE), in-the-ear (ITE), in-the-canal (ITC), completely-in-canal (CIC), and receiver-in-canal (RIC) models. The audiologist will recommend the style, features, and technology level that align with your hearing needs.
Programming the hearing aids
Once you’ve selected your hearing aids, they will need to be programmed to your specific hearing loss profile. The audiologist will use software to adjust the amplification, compression, noise reduction, and other settings of the hearing aids based on your audiogram results. This process ensures that the devices provide the right amount of amplification for each frequency to help you hear clearly and comfortably.
Fitting and adjusting the hearing aids
After the hearing aids are programmed, they will be custom-fit to your ears to ensure optimal comfort and performance. The audiologist will conduct real-ear measurements, where a tiny microphone is placed in your ear canal to verify that the devices are delivering the correct amplification levels based on your audiogram. Any necessary adjustments will be made to fine-tune the settings and maximize the benefits of the hearing aids.
Tips for getting the most out of your hearing aids
Once you’ve gone through the audiogram and hearing aid fitting process, it’s essential to know how to care for and use your hearing aids effectively to improve your listening experience. Here are some helpful tips to help you get the most out of your new devices:
Wear your hearing aids consistently
For your brain to adapt to the new sounds provided by your hearing aids, it’s crucial to wear them regularly throughout the day. Start by wearing your hearing aids for shorter periods and gradually increase the wearing time as your comfort and confidence grow. Consistent use will help you adjust to the amplified sounds and maximize the benefits of your devices.
Practice good hearing aid maintenance
Proper maintenance is key to prolonging the lifespan of your hearing aids and ensuring their optimal performance. Clean your devices daily with a soft, dry cloth or a specialized cleaning tool to remove wax, debris, and moisture. Store your hearing aids in a dry, safe place when not in use and avoid exposing them to extreme heat, humidity, or water.
Communicate your needs and preferences
Don’t hesitate to communicate with your audiologist about your hearing needs, challenges, and preferences. If you’re experiencing discomfort, feedback, or difficulty hearing in specific situations, let your audiologist know so they can make the necessary adjustments to your hearing aids. Your audiologist is there to support you and ensure that your devices are customized to meet your unique requirements.
Stay informed about new technology and features
Hearing aid technology is constantly evolving, with new features and advancements introduced regularly to improve the listening experience for users. Stay informed about the latest innovations in hearing aid technology and discuss any updates with your audiologist to determine if an upgrade or adjustment is beneficial for your hearing needs. Being proactive about exploring new options can enhance your hearing aid experience and quality of life.
In conclusion
Understanding the audiogram and hearing aid fitting process is essential for managing your hearing health and achieving optimal hearing outcomes. By familiarizing yourself with the basics of an audiogram, types of hearing loss, and personalized fitting procedures, you can make informed decisions about your hearing care journey. Remember to work closely with your audiologist, follow their recommendations, and stay engaged in your hearing aid experience to enjoy clear, natural sound and improved communication abilities. Your hearing health is in your hands, and with the right knowledge and support, you can make the most of your hearing aids for a fulfilling and vibrant life.