When hearing aids aren’t enough, cochlear implants can open a new world of sound and connection. These tiny devices are implanted through surgery and are intended for individuals who have moderate to extreme hearing loss and continue to have difficulty understanding speech in spite of using hearing aids. So, who can benefit from a cochlear implant, and how do you know if you or a loved one is a good candidate? Let’s examine it more thoroughly!
Cochlear implants – what are they?
Different from hearing aids, which merely amplify sound, cochlear implants work by directly
stimulating the auditory nerve, sidestepping the damaged parts of the inner ear. This helps the brain to receive and decipher sound signals more clearly.
Cochlear implants are composed of:
- A sound processor mounted outside the ear, and placed behind it
- During a surgical procedure, an electrode array and internal receiver are placed beneath the skin and inside the cochlea
Collectively, they help restore access to sound for individuals who get little or no help from conventional hearing aids.
primary requirements for a cochlear implant
Both kids and adults are approved by the FDA to utilize cochlear implants. Attributes of Suitable Candidates:
- Moderate to profound hearing loss in both ears
- Minimal results from hearing aids, especially with understanding speech
- Incentive and realistic expectations about the results of implantation
- Dedication to continuing care, including programming known as “mapping” and auditory therapy
- Babies as young as 9 months old experiencing extreme hearing impairment in both ears
- Children aged 2 and above with substantial to extreme hearing impairment, who do not experience major improvement with conventional hearing aids
- Kids with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to diminish over time
- Experience extreme impairment in one or both ears
- Struggle to make out words and conversations, despite using advanced hearing devices
- Possess a deep desire to express yourself and remain linked to others
- Are willing to participate in continuing hearing therapy and device programming
- A full hearing test with and without hearing aids
- Speech recognition testing
- Trying out a hearing aid, if you haven’t already
- Using medical imaging like CT scans or MRIs to examine the structure of the inner ear
- Consultation with an ENT specialist or cochlear implant surgeon
- Examining objectives, expected outcomes, and information exchange needs
Hearing hope for young people: implant technology for kids
Timely placement of implants is crucial for kids, especially in regard to the advancement of their speech and language abilities. The FDA currently approves cochlear implants for:
Early intervention helps assure the best possible outcomes for language acquisition, scholastic success, and social development. Parents are encouraged to act quickly if they suspect hearing
loss.
Cochlear Implants for Adults
Cochlear implants can help adults of all ages who:
Some adults lose hearing gradually over time, while others might lose it abruptly as a result of illness, trauma, or genetic conditions. In both scenarios, cochlear implants have the potential to significantly improve one’s life.
The evaluation process
Candidacy for a cochlear implant is determined through a comprehensive evaluation with a specialized hearing care team. This typically includes:
The team will collaborate to determine if a cochlear implant is the best choice and, if necessary, lead you through the subsequent stages.
Bringing back sound to enhance life connections
Cochlear implants might not be suitable for everybody, but for the appropriate individual, they have the potential to considerably improve communication skills, independence, and total well-being. Whether you’re considering this option for yourself or your child, the first step is a personalized assessment with an expert hearing care team.
If hearing aids aren’t helping as much as they used to, it might be time to explore cochlear implants.
Contact us to schedule a consultation and find out if you or your child is a candidate!
Sources:.
– https://www.healthline.com/health/cochlear-implant.
– https://www.med.unc.edu/ent/adultcochlearimplant/cochlear-implants/cochlear-implant-.
evaluation-process/.
– https://www.cochlear.com/us/en/professionals/products-and-.
candidacy/candidacy/cochlear-implant.
– https://www.childrensent.com/blog/who-qualifies-for-pediatric-cochlear-implants-a-.
comprehensive-guide/.