The functioning of every part of our body is undoubtedly fixed, but at times, if there is any discomfort or damage in the processing, it becomes tough to carry out tasks of daily chores. One such important part is the functioning of the ears, which senses sounds and balance the muscles to transmit information to the brain. However, in some cases of hearing loss, this system doesn't work as it has to, resulting in hearing loss. The top pick to rectify the issue is then with a hearing aid, but when the hearing aid does not help people with acute symptoms, the treatment is substituting hearing aids for cochlear implants. Rising complaints in hearing, reimbursement policies, and government support are making a noticeable growth in the cochlear implants market at a CAGR of 9.1% during the forecast period of 2022-2030.
The Technology of Cochlear Implants
The quality of life improves with cochlear implantation. It is different from the regular hearing aids devices as the treatment through this is done by a surgeon of ENT (Ear, Noise, and Throat) where a small device is implanted that connects the carnival nerves of the inner ear with the brain solving the hearing issues through the sensation of sound. A transmitter, microphone, speech processor, and external part of the implant are some essentials that make up the device to signal the nerves to pass the message to the brain and receive to interpret the sound.
Â
Once the device is fixed, patients get guidance from an audiologist to understand the mechanism of the technology. Within a short period of 6 months, patients usually gain improvement in their interpretations of the sound around them. These implantations can be done for newborns to seniors.
When to opt for Cochlear Implants?
Surprisingly, up to 53 million people worldwide have hearing loss, and not all patients are treated with hearing aids. In that case, patients need to understand when they must go to the next phase of treatment. Cochlear implantation is taken:
- At the time when hearing loss is at a moderate to a profound level
- Hearing loss at the inner ear level or hair cells
- Infants of 12 months of age to adults around 65+ years
- When there is a struggle in hearing, even after fixing a hearing aid machine with a proper diagnosis, one can opt for cochlear implantation with the surgeon’s recommendation.
- When the person is physically fit to withstand surgery.
Life without sounds could be very void. Cochlear implantation has gained popularity due to success stories from people across the globe. It has been successful for most patients, and patients have had phenomenal results with this implant. Happy patients have expressed that the treatment helped them hear the silent ticking of the clock, the chirping of the birds, footsteps of people while enjoying soothing music to recognize and connect to different speeches and sounds that they could not hear for many years in their chapters of life.Â
Maintenance of Cochlear Implants
Post-surgery, cochlear implantation doesn't require high maintenance from the patients but,
- A cautious attitude is always essential to examine the external device for any damage, moisture content, or dirt at frequent gaps.
- During any cosmetic application of hairspray or perfumes, necessary care should be taken for the outer part of the cochlear implant.
- Since they are not waterproof, it should be noted to keep them always dry.
- Replacing or charging the battery for a better experience.
- Regular check-ups with the doctor may be needed to replace the protectors for three months.
Essential minimal care can help to resolve a more significant cause. Hence, being alert and reaping the enjoyment of technology is a simple yet profound technique of Cochlear Implantation!
