The Components of a Hearing Aid

Hearing aid technology has progressed astoundingly in recent years. In a matter of decades they have gone from suitcase-sized and largely ineffective contraptions to small, comfortable, and highly successful devices. Many different conditions that can affect hearing are now treatable thanks to medical advances.

If you have been researching hearing aids, you may be curious about how they work. This article will outline the four basic components of the average hearing aid. If you have any questions about different designs, prices, or which hearing aid is best for you, call HearingPlanet at 1-800-432-7669 to speak with one of our hearing aid consultants.

Just Four Basic Parts

It may seem surprising that a tool as complex as a hearing aid can be broken down into four simple parts, but it is true. Most hearing aids consist of:

• A microphone. This picks up sound and converts it into electrical signals. On a behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aid, it will be located on the outer hook that goes around your ear. An in-ear (IE) hearing aid will have a small microphone on the out-facing surface.
• An amplifier. This increases a sound's volume, making it easier to hear, and passes it along to the speaker. In both BTE and IE hearing aids, it is encased within the aid.
• A speaker (also called a receiver). This is the part of the hearing aid that faces into your ear. It converts electrical signals from the amplifier back into sound and sends them into your inner ear. This proximity to your inner ear allows you to hear sounds you may not hear otherwise.
• A battery. Of course, this is where your hearing aid gets it power. Hearing aid batteries are usually small, like watch batteries, and are placed in the hearing aid's casing.

Contact Us

Now that you know a little about how hearing aids work, you may be wondering if one could help you. To discuss your options with an experienced hearing aids professional, contact HearingPlanet at 1-800-432-7669.