Key points of hearing aid fitting for children

Due to the popularity of hearing screening in China, many children with hearing impairment can be diagnosed with hearing problems shortly after birth. Once hearing loss is found, hearing aids can be used six months ago. However, the ears of infants are not mature, which brings many difficulties to the matching of hearing aids. Compared with other age groups, there is a lack of unified procedures for the matching of infant hearing aids. Each place has its own method, which is difficult to define the success of the matching of infant hearing aids.

For this reason, Jinghao hearing aid fitting experts suggest three key points:

The first is to identify the hearing status of infants. Although the results of behavioral audiometry are accurate, only electrophysiological audiometry is used for infants under 6 months old. We usually use the methods of ABR (click ABR), ABR (tone burst ABR) and ASSR. The correct use of these methods can achieve a more accurate hearing threshold for infants. Zhang Han, a journalist, explained to China audiology network that the most important thing in converting electrophysiological response thresholds and hearing thresholds is to understand the application of correction factors. The so-called correction coefficient refers to the decibel to be subtracted from the threshold of ABR response to the threshold of behavioral audiometry. Generally speaking, the threshold of electrophysiological response is 5-20 dB higher than that of behavioral audiometry. The low frequency 500Hz needs to be reduced by 20dB, while the high frequency 4000Hz only needs to be reduced by 5dB. For example, the threshold value of ABR obtained by short pure tone at 500Hz is 60dbnhl, which is converted to 40dbhl (60-20 = 40dB). According to this method, the hearing threshold of infants can be obtained, which is the basis of hearing aid matching.

Second, we must fully consider the unique acoustic characteristics of the ear canal of infants. We know that the smaller the ear canal, the greater the resonance of the same sound intensity. That is to say, if we check the matching according to the 2cc index of hearing aids provided by the manufacturer, 90% of the cases will lead to over amplification. Yes, infants are not comfortable, unwilling to take hearing AIDS, and even have an impact on their hearing. The best way to solve this problem is to test the real ear coupling cavity difference (recd) of infants. According to China audiology network, it is very important to test recd, which is one of the most important factors to ensure the success of hearing aid fitting.

After obtaining the recd value of infants, the third factor is to evaluate the effect of hearing aid fitting. In general, we can use the hearing aid analyzer and probe microphone to conduct the true ear test. The purpose of the assessment is to ensure that after the hearing aid is put on, all indicators can be basically met, such as gain, maximum output, etc.; then see whether the hearing aid can amplify the speech sound most effectively, and the comfort of hearing aid does not mean that it can clearly understand the speech, which need to be continuously evaluated and adjusted. Finally, it needs to judge whether the function of the hearing aid is suitable for children Use, such as directional microphone, multi memory hearing aid, wind noise reduction function, etc. These functions are not useful for all infants and young children. They need to be determined according to the specific situation.

In a word, Jinghao hearing aid fitting experts believe that successful hearing aid fitting for infants and young children meets at least the above three conditions. Of course, there are other factors that need to be considered, such as the inconsistent hearing loss of infants and young children, the emergence of revitalization and so on. Therefore, the matching of infant hearing aids is a continuous, gradual and systematic process in essence.

Jinghao hearing aid reminder: hearing aid wearing requires professional “matching”, so it is very important to choose a professional hearing aid matching center and a hearing aid tester! If you have any hearing problems, you can call Jinghao for consultation, or come to the matching center for experience. Hearing aid free consultation Tel.: + 86-18566295705