For hundreds of years devices have been used to help the hearing impaired. As early as the 1600s devices were made from sea shells, animal horns and then, in later years,\u00a0 from brass and copper. These early hearing instruments that were wide at one end to gather the sound and narrow at the other end to direct sound\u00a0 into the ear canal. They were described as ear trumpets because of the way they looked.
\nIn the 1700s it was discovered that sound could be sensed as vibrations on bony surfaces of the skull so devices were placed behind the ear to help\u00a0 transmit these sounds.
\nIn the 1800s devices were created that resembled tubes into which a person spoke at one end and the other end was placed in the ear of the person who was listening.
\nIn the early part of the 20th century devices were developed that began to use electricity. This helped tremendously with the development of hearing devices that could amplify sounds and direct them into people\u2019s ears. Some of the technology used by Alexander Graham Bell for the telephone was also used for these hearing aids.\u00a0 Sounds were amplified by using a carbon microphone and powered by batteries.
\nOver the years, batteries became smaller and transistors were developed that helped to miniaturize the devices,\u00a0 which improved helped sound quality.
\nThe digital era has improved hearing aids even further both in quality of the sound and the size of the device. Hearing aids are now being used that fit in the ear canal and aren\u2019t easily visible, making people less hesitant to wear them.\u00a0 While years ago hearing aids were used mainly by people who were hard of hearing, now they can be used for people who just need a little help to hear more clearly.
\nIf you or someone you know is experiencing difficulty hearing, it is recommended that you speak with a physician who will make a referral to our audiology evaluation department.\u00a0 Please call 718-206-7001 for an appointment.<\/p>\n
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.<\/strong> <\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" For hundreds of years devices have been used to help the hearing impaired. As early as the 1600s devices were made from sea shells, animal horns and then, in later years,\u00a0 from brass and copper. These early hearing instruments that … Continue reading