Cochlear implants can offer a whole new level of sound and communication when hearing aids are insufficient. These tiny devices are implanted through surgery and are intended for individuals who have moderate to extreme hearing loss and continue to have trouble comprehending speech despite 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 prospect? Let’s examine it more thoroughly!
Cochlear implants – what are they?
Different from hearing aids, which simply amplify sound, cochlear implants work by directly
stimulating the auditory nerve, bypassing the damaged areas of the inner ear. This helps the brain to receive and interpret sound signals more clearly.
Components of cochlear implants:
- A sound processor located outside the ear, and placed behind it
- During a surgical procedure, an electrode array and internal receiver are placed underneath the skin and within the cochlea
Collectively, they help recover access to sound for people who get little or no help from conventional hearing aids.
key requirements for a cochlear implant
Both kids and adults are approved by the FDA to use cochlear implants. Attributes of Suitable Candidates:
- Moderate to profound hearing loss in both ears
- Hearing aids are giving modest help, particularly in increasing speech comprehension
- Motivation and realistic expectations about the outcomes of implantation
- Adherence to continuing care, such as programming known as “mapping” and auditory therapy
- Kids as young as 9 months old, with extensive hearing loss in both ears
- Youngsters aged 2 and older with substantial to severe hearing impairment, who do not experience major improvement with conventional hearing aids
- Children with progressive hearing loss, where hearing continues to decline over time
- Have extreme hearing loss 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 stay linked to others
- Dedicated to taking part in continuous auditory rehabilitation and device adjustments
- A full hearing exam 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
- Consulting with an ear, nose, and throat expert or a surgeon who specializes in cochlear implant procedures
- Examining objectives, expected results, and information exchange needs
Hearing hope for young minds: implant technology for children
Early implantation is key for children, especially when it comes to speech and language development. The FDA presently approves cochlear implants for:
Early intervention helps assure the best possible outcomes for language acquisition, academic success, and social growth. Parents are urged to act quickly if they suspect hearing
loss.
Adult cochlear implants
Cochlear implants can help adults of all ages who:
Hearing loss can occur gradually or suddenly in adults, either because of a slow advancement over time or as a result of sickness, injury, or genetic variables. In both scenarios, cochlear implants have the potential to substantially improve one’s life.
Getting assessed for cochlear implants
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 option and, if needed, walk you through the next stages.
Bringing back sound to enhance life connections
Cochlear implants aren’t for everybody, but for the right candidate, they can dramatically improve communication, independence, and quality of life. The initial step, whether it is for yourself or your child, entails undergoing a customized evaluation with a skilled team of hearing care professionals.
If your hearing aids are no longer providing adequate assistance, it could be beneficial to consider cochlear implants.
If you think you or your child is a candidate for cochlear implants, schedule an appointment now!
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/.