When hearing aids aren’t enough, cochlear implants can open a new world of sound and connection. These little, surgically implanted devices are made for people with moderate to extreme hearing loss who still strain to comprehend speech, even with 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 carefully!
What is a cochlear implant?
Different from hearing aids, which simply amplify sound, cochlear implants work by directly
activating the auditory nerve, sidestepping the damaged areas of the inner ear. This enables the brain to process and understand auditory information with greater clarity.
Cochlear implants consist of:
- An external sound processor, which is placed behind the ear
- During a surgical procedure, an electrode array and internal receiver are placed underneath the skin and inside the cochlea
They work together to enhance hearing for people who receive minimal or no help from conventional hearing aids
key guidelines for a cochlear implant
Cochlear implants are FDA-approved for both children and adults. Characteristics of Suitable Candidates:
- Moderate to severe hearing loss in both ears
- Hearing aids are providing mediocere assistance, especially in improving speech comprehension
- Motivation and realistic expectations about the outcomes of implantation
- Commitment to follow-up care, including programming (called “mapping”) and auditory
rehabilitation - Children as young as 9 months old, with profound hearing loss in both ears
- Ages 2 and up, with severe to profound hearing loss, who receive limited benefit from hearing aids
- Children who experience continuing hearing deterioration benefit substantially from timely support, which plays a critical role in maximizing their potential for language capabilities, educational accomplishment, and social progress. Parents are encouraged to act quickly if they suspect hearing
loss.Cochlear Implants for Adults
Adults of any age can benefit from cochlear implants if they:
- Experience significant impairment in one or both ears
- Struggle to understand words and conversations, in spite of using advanced hearing devices
- Possess a deep need to express yourself and stay connected to others
- Dedicated to taking part in continuous auditory rehabilitation and device adjustments
Hearing loss can happen slowly or quickly in adults, either due to a slow advancement over time or as a result of sickness, injury, or genetic factors. In both scenarios, cochlear implants have the potential to substantially improve one’s life.
Getting assessed for cochlear implants
Qualification for a cochlear implant is evaluated through a thorough examination by a multidisciplinary team of hearing specialists. Typically, this evaluation involves:
- A full hearing exam with and without hearing aids
- Testing for speech recognition
- A hearing aid trial, if one hasn’t been completed recently
- Medical imaging (such as CT or MRI) to evaluate inner ear anatomy
- Consulting with an ear, nose, and throat expert or a surgeon who specializes in cochlear implant procedures
- Examining goals, anticipated results, and information exchange requirements
The team will collaborate to evaluate whether a cochlear implant is the best option, and if so, guide you through the next steps.
Bringing back sound to improve life connections
Cochlear implants may not be appropriate for everyone, but for the appropriate person, they have the potential to significantly enhance communication skills, independence, and overall well-being. The initial step, whether it is for yourself or your child, entails undergoing a personalized assessment with a skilled team of hearing care professionals.
If your hearing aids are no longer providing sufficient assistance, it might be helpful 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/.
Hearing hope for young people: implant technology for kids
Early implantation is important for children, particularly when it comes to speech and language development. The FDA currently approves cochlear implants for:
