In the United States alone, it was estimated that over 48.1 million people had bilateral or unilateral hearing loss between 2001 and 2008. In short, there are millions of Americans that have some sort of hearing loss that could benefit from hearing amplifiers, in-ear hearing aids, or some other sort of hearing device or tool.

At Platinum Hearing Aids, your Detroit-area audiologists, we understand the frustration that you might experience on a day to day basis if you are one of the millions of Americans with hearing impairments. Because of this, we offer a variety of diagnostic and corrective hearing services. If you believe that you or a loved one is affected by hearing impairment, we urge you to contact us today to schedule an appointment.

While there are many different hearing devices that can be used to correct or amplify hearing in an individual with hearing loss, one of the most common types of hearing aids that we are asked about are digital hearing aids. But how can you know if a digital hearing aid is the right hearing device for you? Continue reading to find out!

What Is a Digital Hearing Aid?

A digital hearing aid is extremely similar to an analog hearing aid — with the main difference being the amplifier component. An analog amplifier is designed to increase the volume of specific sound frequencies — usually between 2,000 and 8,000 Hz. Digital hearing aids, however, are much more complex.

Digital hearing aids are essentially tiny, powerful computers that convert sound waves into digital code. The code is then analyzed before the sound is sent to your ears. Because of the sophistication involved in digital hearing aid technology, digital hearing aids are extremely efficient in clearing background noise and reducing feedback while focusing on the sounds and noises that you need to be hearing. Because of this, digital hearing aids are often considered to be the clearest-sounding hearing aids that can operate the most efficiently in the widest range of listening environments.

Digital Hearing Aids Contain:

A Microphone – The component responsible for picking up the sound.
An Amplifier – The component that makes the sound louder and clearer.
A Receiver – The “speaker” that creates the sound that you hear.
A Battery – The power source of your hearing aid.

Is a Digital Hearing Aid Right for Me?

Oftentimes, people who are experiencing hearing issues rely on the internet to tell them whether or not they need hearing aids — as well as what type of hearing aid would be best for them. In reality, it is simply not that simple. Your auditory system is extremely complex, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution for people who have hearing loss. Because of this, there are a few things that you should do before you buy a digital hearing aid.

See Your General Physician

When it comes to hearing loss, the solution is not always the use of a hearing device like a digital hearing aid. Instead, the loss of hearing can sometimes be a correctable issue. Seeing your general care provider will help to rule out preventable hearing issues like earwax buildup or an ear infection. If they can’t diagnose a preventable issue, they may refer you to an audiologist for further testing.

Seek a Referral to a Reputable Audiologist

The first thing that anyone should do when they notice changes in their ability to hear is to schedule an appointment with their local audiologist. If you live in the Detroit-area, we strongly suggest that you schedule an appointment with Dr. Seymour or Dr. Pinnock, here at Platinum Hearing Aids. In doing so, you can learn more about your unique hearing needs and what hearing device might be the best solution.

Ask About a Trial Period

When you see your audiologist, here at Platinum Hearing Aids, it is important to ask if there is a trial period for digital hearing aids available. If they believe that digital hearing aids are right for you, they can refer you to reputable brands that have, or may not have a trial period.

Plan for The Expense

While hearing aids are often a necessary hearing device for someone with hearing loss, they can also be rather expensive. Be sure to contact your audiologist to discuss the cost of digital hearing aids and other hearing devices. Your audiologist will be able to inform you of out-of-pocket costs, as well as what the cost of the hearing device might be after insurance.

Schedule Your Appointment Today!

To answer your question — the best way to tell whether or not a digital hearing aid is the right hearing device for you is to consult your local Detroit audiologists at Platinum Hearing Aids. So what are you waiting for? Request an appointment with our experienced team today.

85 Decibels

It is recommended that you use hearing protection in any situation in which the noise or sound level exceeds 85 decibels (A-weighted) or dBA.

Soft music, whisper: 30

Average home noise: 40

Normal conversation, background music: 60

Office noise, inside car at 60 mph: 70

Vacuum cleaner, average radio: 75

Heavy traffic, window air conditioner, noisy restaurant, power lawn mower: 80-89

Subway, shouted conversation: 90-95

Boom box, ATV, motorcycle: 96-100

School dance: 101-105

Chainsaw, leaf blower, snowmobile: 106-115

Sports crowd, rock concert, loud symphony: 120-129

Stock car races: 130

Gunshot, siren at 100 feet: 140

As you can see, there are many situations in everyday life that could lead to hearing damage and loss. If you’re in need of treatment, then visit our Detroit hearing center today.

Attending Concerts

We’ve all seen babies at concerts wearing heavy-duty ear protection. Why aren’t we doing the same? While we as adults may not need the same level of protection — we are there to hear the music, after all — it is possible to wear ear protection and simply hear the music at a lower volume. By doing so, you can better enjoy the music you love for years to come!

Mowing the Lawn

A power lawn mower is 80-89 dB, and sounds above 85 dB are harmful. To be safe, our audiologists recommend wearing ear protection while mowing the lawn! What better way to do this than with ear protection while also listening to a podcast or your favorite music? Turn your time mowing the lawn into a more calming — and less damaging — experience by using protection.

Surfing

Hold up — you thought we were just talking about noises? While noise levels are certainly one of the most important aspects to consider when discussing hearing loss, exposure to cold, wind, water, and snow can also irritate your ears. While we may not have the option to surf much here in Detroit, keep this in mind when traveling to more tropical locales! Water can lead to ear infections, which can in turn lead to serious hearing damage if you’re not careful.

Using Power Tools

Perhaps you’re a weekend warrior or you’re completing a home renovation project. Whatever it is, don’t forget to wear ear protection when using those power tools! As an example, an electric saw can produce sounds over 100 dB. While this is more prone to cause hearing loss with prolonged use, it’s important to take the necessary precautions early on.

Watching Fireworks

Independence day is in just a few days! With it comes parties with friends and family, outdoor barbecuing, and, of course, fireworks. While they are exciting and fun to watch, fireworks can be an assault on your ears! On average, fireworks can produce up to 150 dB of noise. Instead of simply covering your ears with your hands, wear a pair of earplugs or earmuffs to help stifle the noise level.

Visit Our Hearing Center in Detroit

It’s never too early or too late to meet with an audiologist if you’re concerned about your hearing. Hearing loss can greatly affect your quality of life, but our audiologists can help make sure you have the hearing solutions you need. Follow the tips in this blog and use protection, and then visit our hearing center for personalized tips, hearing aids, hearing devices, and more.

Tag Archives: Hearing Devices

Are Digital Hearing Aids Right for You?