I just had my first hearing test in 2 years and unfortunately my bad ear has gone from mild/moderate loss to no useful function. There is a chance it could improve a bit if I ever get this current fullness to pass, but it's now all levels not just low tones, so not likely. My dr told me a bit about baha and cros aids that could be an option, to try to direct sound to my good ear, luckily still perfect hearing there. Anyone use them, are they worth it? I find I am ok in normal conversations and on the phone, just have a hard time in noisy settings, restaurants, etc. would these help in those setting, or is this just my new normal I need to deal with? Also another subject, but I also discussed laby or gentamicin with dr - both now viable options for me apparently since hearing is gone. Am going to try antiviral and allergy treatments first, but those are next step to consider to get vertigo under control. Makes me wonder - is there downside to destructive procedures at this point, ie is there any way technology could improve in our lifetime to make this ear useful again, or is that just wishful thinking on my part? Having a hard time convincing myself it's now useless.... Any input greatly appreciated!
I have been completely deaf in one ear for 17 years. I have had two cross aides. One did not help at all. The other helps only in two situations, a quiet dinner party or the person on my deaf side in a car. In a noisy situation like a noisy restaurant, it just amplifies the chaos and drives me crazy. My dr tells me the sound byte and baha would do better. The sound byte is very pricey, in the $8000 out of pocket range and the baha is a permanent implant which i dont want. Some people like the baha. The thing i would like most, knowing where sound comes from would not be restored by any aide. I asked on a forum about the sound byte in the noisy restaurant and i believe the response was that it was marginally helpful. On the good side, i have adjusted well to single sided deafness over the years and dont miss it too much.
I have gone through the gamut; CROS aids, bone conduction aids, BAHA and Ponto (my current). Each have their benefits and drawbacks. Some points to consider... 1. is your hearing stable in the other ear? if not consider a CROS Aid 2. Does your health plan cover the surgery or processor? This varies from Country to country and even state to state. The surgery cost is about $15k and the process or is about $5K. Many plans, mine included, do not. 3. Does your health plan cover replacement processors? A processor lasts between 3-5 years. 4. What accessories are included? Will it hook up to my cell phone or computer? I can provide answers on my experience in Ontario, Canada. What worked for me may or may not work for you.