A cochlear implant may be an option for someone with severe hearing loss. Our Audiologist can test, diagnose, and recommend implants. They can also adjust cochlear implant settings. Cochlear implants are surgically-implanted medical devices that treat hearing loss. Cochlear implants replace the function of a damaged inner ear (cochlea) and are designed to mimic natural hearing. Hear for Life is part of the Cochlear Americas network and the Northwest Cochlear Implant Alliance.

What to expect

On the first visit, Dr. Cam will ask about your medical history, recent hearing loss symptoms and general physical health to build a detailed case history.

Ear exam

Dr. Cam will use an otoscope to look in the ears. This cone-shaped instrument has a light on the end to help him see any physical problems inside the ear.

Hearing test

There are a number of tests that can be used to determine the type and degree of hearing loss. These can include:

• Pure tone sound tests (air conduction test)

• In this air conduction test, different pitches and tones are played through headphones or earplugs. The patient signals when the sound is heard. For children, this test is often turned into a game to make the experience fun.

• Speech recognition test

• This test is similar to the pure tone test, but uses words or sentences rather than tones. It helps the audiologist determine how well speech is heard and understood at different volumes.

• Bone conduction test

• In this test, a metal band with an attachment, called a bone oscillator, is placed against the bone behind the ear. Sounds are sent to the inner ear through the bone.
  

Review results

The results of the hearing test are ready immediately and mapped on an audiogram. This chart maps the degree of hearing loss and typically takes 20 to 30 minutes to complete.

Discuss treatment options

Whatever the results show, it’s important to remember there are effective treatment options for all types of hearing loss. Dr. Cam will be able to advise you, but you should also think about factors such as lifestyle and life stage (school, work, retirement) when considering your options.

Because of the crucial role the brain plays in hearing, you may need to follow some training exercises to get the most from whatever solution you choose. Once you find the most appropriate solution, your path to better hearing can be life-changing. In fact, for the almost 40 years Cochlear Americas has  helped people hear better, no one's ever said; "I wish I would have waited." Instead they say they wish they would have done something sooner. And, the good news is, you can.

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