We help determine the best type and
technology for you.
At Diagnostic Services of Houston/Houston
Hearing, our hearing aids are absolutely the finest quality, from the
most respected manufacturers in the hearing aid industry, such as Siemens,
Phonak,
Oticon,
Starkey, Widex,
Resound
and more. We fit all styles from behind the ear to the practically invisible,
completely in the canal models. Our hearing aids ranges from conventional
to the newest programmable and digital technology.
Conventional Hearing Aids
This is the technology that
has been used for decades. These hearing aids have circuits,
that may be adjusted with a screwdriver for small changes in
hearing aid response. However, major parameters such as
output, frequency response and gain are set by the
manufacturer. Any significant adjustments would have to be
made by the manufacturer. These instruments process sound
using analog signal processing. This means there they cannot
be programmed, and it is not possible to control many
features which enhance hearing and understanding. These are
adequate for some losses but fall particularly short for
high frequency losses and those with poor discrimination.
They are the least costly
instruments.
Digitally Programmable, Analog
Circuits
This technology allows the audiologist
to digitally program the hearing aids through the computer. It allows
much more control in terms of how the hearing aids will amplify incoming
sounds. These circuits, although not truly digital, do allow for flexible
use and the ability to change the hearing aids as the hearing loss progresses.
The computer chip in the hearing aids recognizes soft and loud sounds,
low and high frequency sounds. The sound processor adjusts the output
automatically. Some of these instruments have volume controls and some
do not. Some have multiple programs so that the hearing aids can change
in a more difficult listening environment. The signal processing is still
analog, but because they are programmable instruments, many adjustments
are possible. However, even a programmable, analog system may not be best
choice for some people. This technology is a great step forward for those
who want newer technology but cannot afford the more costly completely
digital systems. At this time we presently carry 2 levels of digitally
programmable analog hearing aids.
Digital Hearing Aids
This is the newest, most exciting hearing aid technology ever
available. At the present time we offer 5 levels of digital technology
as well as multiple programs and microphones. Digital signal processing
means that the incoming sounds are converted to binary numbers, analyzed
and sampled at extremely rapid speeds. These aids differentiate soft from
loud sounds, low pitch from high pitch sounds. The hearing aids have a
tiny computer chip which allows the audiologist to digitally program the
hearing aids through the computer. They allow maximum flexibility in terms
of custom fitting the hearing aids to any particular loss. With 100% digital
signal processing, the signal is quieter, more clear and easier to understand.
Precipitous losses or difficult losses are far more successfully fit,
as many of the digital instruments allow us to change not only individual
channels, but individual frequencies as well. With these instruments,
we also have the ability to make extremely small changes to accommodate
sensitivities to loud or uncomfortable sounds, and to reduce feedback.
This sound processing can allow us to enhance the speech signal, without
over amplifying background sounds, in order to obtain better understanding
in noise. These instruments can be reprogrammed as the hearing loss changes
and may allow multiple programs or power instruments with directional/omnidirectional
microphone capability. In addition, some manufacturers have a choice of
digital products, making it possible for more people to take advantage
of this remarkable technology. They are the fruit of years of extensive
technological research by the most respected manufacturers in the world.
We are proud to be a part of this wonderful revolution.
How do we select a hearing
aid?
The first step in determining which hearing aid(s) are
appropriate for any patient, is for that patient to make and
appointment with a certified, clinical audiologist. An
audiologist will provide comprehensive audiologic evaluation
to determine extent and type of hearing loss present. He/she
will take a history of hearing involvement and symptoms, and
then perform otoscopic examination. By doing this, he/she
will be able to tell if the ear canals are clear and able to
be tested. If there is cerumen or active pathology present,
referral to an otolaryngologist will be recommended. If the
ear canals are clear, and testing can be performed, a number
of diagnostic tests will be performed. You will be tested to
determine how soft you can accurately repeat speech. You
will be tested to determine how well you can understand
speech when it is made loud enough for you to hear. You will
be tested by using pure tones to determine extent(amount) of
your hearing loss by air conduction(through a headset or
insert earphones) and also by bone conduction to determine
extent of nerve damage, if any, is present. In addition,
your middle ear function will be evaluated. Additional
diagnostic tests may be performed if your audiologist needs
additional information regarding you hearing loss.
After our testing is complete, we will explain the results
to you and your family and discuss which options are
appropriate for your particular problems. If you need
medical/otolaryngologic consultation, we will recommend
that. If you need and desire hearing aid assistance, we will
show you the different styles available and explain the
differences in technologies, as related to your hearing
loss. If you would like to hear how advanced technology
sounds, we will program appropriate hearing aids, so that
you will have an understanding of how helpful these
instruments can be for you.
Once you decide on a particular set of hearing aids, molds
will be made of your ears. Depending on which style is
chosen, you will have custom made ear molds or custom made
hearing aids made in the style of your choice.
When you return for your first fitting, the hearing aids
will be programmed for your loss by computer. They will then
be fine tuned, based on your needs and preferences. You can
expect to return weekly for the first month, as programmable
hearing aids can be adjusted as you become more experienced
in listening to sound and as you become a more sophisticated
hearing aid user. As time goes on, you may need more power
or a difference in the way the hearing aid is functioning.
It is very important to have an ongoing relationship with
your audiologist as this process occurs. We have the ability
to change many parameters within the hearing aid, and if we
know there is a problem or that you need additional changes,
we often can provide that quickly and efficiently. We work
together as a team to provide the best hearing possible.
All hearing aids, by law, have a 30 day return period, so
that if you purchase instruments and decide you do not want
to keep them, they can be returned. A hearing aid
consultation fee is retained, but the majority of your
purchase amount will be returned to you.
Of course, hearing aids cannot restore your hearing to
normal hearing, but they can significantly improve the
quality of your life.
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For more information on hearing aids, hearing loss, and other related topics, visit some of our provided links to key suppliers, manufacturers, and hearing organizations. |
Call us today at 713-512-1267 to schedule an audiologic evaluation, hearing aid consultation, or a complimentary demonstration of our advanced technology instruments. You may also place a request through our online form.
713-512-1267
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Ages
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6550 Mapleridge, Suite 119 • Houston, TX 77081 CLICK FOR DIRECTIONS TO OUR OFFICE Copyright 1999-2003, Diagnostic Services of Houston/Houston Hearing |