A cochlear implant is an electronic device that can help people who are deaf or severely hard of hearing to hear. It is surgically implanted into the inner ear, and it works by bypassing the damaged hair cells in the cochlea and sending electrical signals directly to the auditory nerve.
Cochlear implants are a safe and effective treatment for hearing loss. They are available for children and adults.
Keep in mind that cochlear implants are not a cure for hearing loss, but they can significantly improve the quality of life for people who are deaf or severely hard of hearing.
Can a Deaf Person Hear with a Cochlear Implant?
A cochlear implant can provide a significant improvement in hearing for people who are deaf or severely hard of hearing. However, it is important to note that cochlear implants do not restore normal hearing. People with cochlear implants typically hear sounds differently than people with normal hearing, and they may not be able to hear all sounds.
What Does a Cochlear Implant Do?
A cochlear implant consists of two main parts: an external sound processor and an internal receiver-stimulator. The sound processor is worn behind the ear and it picks up sound waves. The sound processor then sends these sound waves to the internal receiver-stimulator, which is implanted in the inner ear. The internal receiver-stimulator then sends electrical signals to the auditory nerve.
How Long Does a Cochlear Implant Last?
The lifespan of a cochlear implant can vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of implant, the individual’s lifestyle, and the amount of use. However, most cochlear implants last for many years.
Can You Speak with a Cochlear Implant?
Yes, people with cochlear implants can speak. However, it takes time and practice to learn how to use a cochlear implant to understand and produce speech. Speech therapy can help people with cochlear implants to improve their speech skills.
If you are deaf or severely hard of hearing, you should talk to your doctor about whether a cochlear implant is right for you.