When hearing aids aren’t enough, cochlear implants can unlock a new world of sound and connection. These little, surgically implanted devices are made for people with moderate to profound hearing loss who still strain to understand 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 prospect? Let’s examine it more carefully!
What is a cochlear implant?
Cochlear implants function by stimulating the auditory nerve directly, averting the damaged sections of the inner ear, in contrast to hearing aids that only amplify sound. This helps the brain to receive and interpret sound signals more clearly.
Components of cochlear implants:
- An external sound processor, which is placed behind the ear
- An internal receiver and electrode array, positioned underneath the skin and inside the cochlea during a surgical procedure
Together, they help restore access to sound for individuals who get little or no help from conventional hearing aids.
primary requirements for a cochlear implant
Cochlear implants are FDA-approved for both children and adults. Suitable candidates generally meet the following criteria:
- Moderate to profound hearing loss in both ears
- Hearing aids are giving modest help, especially in improving speech comprehension
- Enthusiasm and practical anticipations concerning the outcomes of implants
- Commitment to follow-up care, including programming (called “mapping”) and auditory
recovery - Kids as young as 9 months old, with profound hearing loss in both ears
- Ages 2 and up, with severe to profound hearing loss, who get limited help from hearing aids
- Kids who experience ongoing hearing deterioration benefit significantly from prompt support, which plays a crucial role in maximizing their potential for language skills, academic achievement, and social growth. If parents suspect hearing loss, they are advised to take prompt action.
Cochlear Implants for Adults
Adults of any age can benefit from cochlear implants if they:
- Experience extreme impairment in one or both ears
- Struggle to understand words and conversations, despite using advanced hearing devices
- Possess a deep need to express yourself and stay connected to others
- Are willing to engage in continuing hearing therapy and device programming
Hearing loss can occur gradually or quickly in adults, either because of a slow progression over time or as a result of illness, injury, or genetic factors. Cochlear implants can be a life-altering option in either case.
The evaluation process
Qualification for a cochlear implant is assessed through a thorough exam by a multidisciplinary team of hearing professionals. Usually, this evaluation involves:
- A full hearing test 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 analyze the structure of the inner ear
- Consultation with an ENT specialist or cochlear implant surgeon
- Exploring goals, expected outcomes, and information exchange needs
The team will team up to identify if a cochlear implant is the best option and, if necessary, walk you through the subsequent stages.
Bringing back sound to improve life connections
Cochlear implants aren’t for everyone, but for the right candidate, they can dramatically enhance communication, self-reliance, and quality of life. The initial step, whether it is for yourself or your child, involves undergoing a customized assessment with a skilled team of hearing care professionals.
If hearing aids aren’t helping as much as they used to, it may be time to explore cochlear implants.
Contact us to schedule a consultation and find out if you or your child is a candidate!
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/.
Cochlear implants for children
Timely placement of implants is crucial for children, particularly regarding the development of their speech and language abilities. The FDA presently approves cochlear implants for: