Q&A

Subject: Power hearing aids

From: DG

I am a 24 yr. old male with a profound hearing loss. I got my first two behind-the-ear aids in Kindergarten and have been wearing them ever since. As I became older and got involved in athletics I had major problems with my perspiration on the aids. After years of trying different things I finally discovered that the only solution was in-the-ear aids. They solved the perspiration problem but did not give me the power I needed. A couple of years ago I visited Starkey Labs and had two in-the-canal aids made and have loved them. I wear these aids whenever I play sports or sweat and wish so badly I could wear them ALL the time. There just is not enough power in them so I have to switch back to my behind-the-ear aids. Has there been any improvements over the past couple of years that may help me? Can more power be packed into an in-the-canal aid? Any further information you could provide me would certainly be appreciated. Thank You

Dear D,
Considering all the advancements in hearing aids recently, I would like to sound an encouraging note. I don't actually know of any more powerful in the ear aids, but there are more brands now, some with digital signal processing. Starkey and their sister company, Qualitone, have power units with split receivers to help give more power without oscillation. I expect that is what Starkey created for you.

One of the limiting factors for power in the ear and in the canal aids, is that with the mike so close to the receiver, feedback becomes such an annoyance that even the available amplification frequently cannot be utilized.

Some digital aids have very effective feedback control to prevent even powerful hearing aids from feeding back. Starkey is sometimes more successful than others at this, but the fit must be very accurate. You may have to be very persuasive to get your audiologist to try small aids in your case.

I am sure you have considered Siemens' "waterproof" hearing aid. With all its gaskets and insulators, it makes quite an acceptable alternative for many athletes. Rubber sleeves on regular behind-the-ear aids also work well but you must replace them each time you change the battery. Good luck on your search

Solveig