Fall is a particularly windy time of year, but advances in hearing aid technology could assist in dealing wind noise.
Did you know that over 70% of all hearing aids sold today are behind-the ear style? This particular hearing aid style is so popular because of its increased battery life and relative discretion. However, it’s not without drawbacks. Wind noise is a huge problem for behind-the-ear hearing aids.
Why Wind Noise Happens
Wind noise occurs when the air turbulence vibrates against your hearing aid ports, which are then converted into electrical signals and amplified. Because of their position outside the ear, behind the ear hearing aids see more exposure to wind noise. Although it might not seem like a big deal, wind noise can ruin a day for those suffering from hearing loss. It already takes more effort for the brain to find the noises you want to hear when you’re suffering from hearing loss. Adding wind noise to the equation is another layer of mental strain when you’re trying to listen.
Developing a Hearing Aid to Combat Wind Noise
You might think that with all the technology we have today, solving wind noise for hearing aids should be a relatively simple fix. The problem is that wind is incredibly unpredictable and likes to change direction, so developing a hearing aid that is capable of taking this into account is particularly challenging. However, small and more efficient digital chips are making strides to improve on this problem. Widex is one hearing aid manufacturer that has rose to the challenge by developing its own wind noise and soft level noise reduction algorithms. A series of comprehensive tests has shown that perception of vowels and consonants, as well as overall user satisfaction, improved significantly with these algorithms in effect.
If you’d like to learn more about advanced in hearing aid technology, consult your hearing health professional today.
Hear Better with Clarity Audiology & Hearing Solutions
Need help with your hearing? Clarity Hearing can help. Clarity Audiology & Hearing Solutions is an independently-owned and operated clinic that focuses on quality of care and personalized, friendly service. Our Doctors of Audiology are highly trained with advanced degrees and take the time to provide the personalized care and attention that you need and deserve. We provide advanced hearing aid options that personally calibrated with cutting-edge digital technology to fit your hearing loss, your unique ear anatomy, and your individual listening needs.
Come in for a walk-in appointment on Tuesdays & Fridays from 10:00am to 11:30am, or contact us to schedule an appointment by calling 410-698-6594 or visiting our contact page. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google+, and LinkedIn for more blog posts, news, and updates!