For many of us, the sounds of birds chirping, children laughing or holiday carolers singing are associated with joyful moments and memories. But for those who are deaf or have profound hearing loss, these moments that many of us take for granted are missing.
With certain types of hearing loss, hearing aids may not be enough to bring the sound back. But here’s the good news: Cochlear implants may be an option to help you enjoy your favorite sounds again. Read on to learn more about cochlear implants for treating hearing loss.
What is a cochlear implant?
A cochlear implant is an electronic device that can improve moderate to severe hearing loss in adults, children and babies. A cochlear implant consists of two main parts:
- An external piece, which typically rests behind the ear and may be held in place magnetically
- An internal piece, which is surgically implanted in the cochlea, beneath the skin
How do cochlear implants work?
Together, these components of a cochlear implant include:
- A microphone to pick up sound
- A processor that chooses and arranges sounds detected by the microphone
- A transmitter and receiver stimulator that work by receiving signals from the processor and convert them into electric impulses
- Electrodes that collect impulses from the stimulator and send them to the auditory nerve
Cochlear implants vs. hearing aids: What’s the difference?
Hearing aids are designed to amplify sound so it becomes audible to a person with impaired hearing. Cochlear implants simulate sound in a way that allows the user to understand speech and become aware of other noises — even if the person is severely hard of hearing or deaf. While using a hearing aid essentially restores or improves "normal" hearing, hearing through a cochlear implant is different and requires a learning process.
Cochlear implants use a complex process to transmit sound and electrically stimulate the auditory nerve in the inner ear. This sends a signal to the user's brain, which recognizes it as sound. Since the process bypasses damaged parts of the wearer's ear, it may be effective for people who are not helped by traditional hearing aids. A cochlear implant may also help reduce symptoms of tinnitus.
How to determine if cochlear implants could improve your hearing loss
Scheduling a hearing exam and talking to an audiologist who is experienced with cochlear implants is the best way to determine if this electronic device might help bring sound back into your or a loved one's life.
Keep in mind that, since cochlear implants require surgery as well as hearing therapy, they can be expensive. While some insurance policies will cover expenses, not all do. The CareCredit credit card can make it easy to manage the cost of cochlear implants as well as other hearing loss treatments, tests and appointments.* Use the Acceptance Locator or download the CareCredit Mobile App to find a hearing provider near you that accepts CareCredit.