Hearing aids are a common treatment for people with hearing loss, but it is crucial to get the right fit in order to maximize their benefits. One of the most important factors in getting a good fit is using real ear measurement (REM) during the fitting process. Here we will discuss why REM is so important and how it can help you get the best possible results from your hearing aids.
What Is Real Ear Measurement?
Real ear measurement is a process of measuring the sound pressure levels inside the ear canal while the person is wearing their hearing aids. This information helps audiologists determine how well the hearing aids fit and make any necessary adjustments. REM can be done in two ways: using an insert or a probe microphone.
Inserts are small devices that are inserted into the ear canal, and probe microphones are placed close to the eardrum. Both methods provide accurate measurements, but each has its own advantages and disadvantages.
In addition, REM can be used to measure the effectiveness of different types of hearing aids, such as behind-the-ear (BTE), in-the-ear (ITE) and in-the-canal (ITC) devices. This information is crucial because it can help audiologists choose the best type of hearing aid for each patient.
REM is an essential tool for a hearing aid fitting because it allows audiologists to obtain accurate measurements of sound pressure levels inside the ear canal. This information is necessary to choose the right type of hearing aid and ensure that it fits properly.
Why Is REM Important?
Real ear measurement is important because it helps to ensure that the hearing aid is fitted correctly and calibrated for the individual. A proper fit is essential for getting the most out of your hearing aids, and a hearing aid fitting for real ear measurement ensures that you are getting the best possible fit.
Real ear measurements can also help adjust the calibration of a hearing aid if necessary. If an individual’s audiogram changes over time, or if they start using their hearing aids in a different environment, then real ear measurements can be used to adjust the settings on their hearing aids accordingly. This will help to ensure that they continue to get the best possible sound quality from their devices.
Finally, real ear measurements can also be helpful in detecting certain types of audiological issues. If an individual has difficulty hearing in one ear, for example, real ear measurements can help identify the problem and determine the best course of treatment.
Overall, real ear measurement is a vital part of the hearing aid fitting process. Ensuring that hearing aids are correctly fitted, and calibrated helps ensure that individuals who experience hearing loss can get the most out of their devices. Without this step, there is no way to know for sure if the hearing aid is providing the wearer with the best possible sound quality and amplification.
How Do I Know If I Need A REM?
If you consider purchasing hearing aids, your audiologist will likely recommend that you undergo a REM test. This is because, without this type of measurement, it is difficult to know for sure whether or not a hearing aid will actually improve your hearing.
During a REM test, an audiologist will place a small probe in your ear canal and then measure the sound that comes through the hearing aid while it is turned on. This allows them to see how well the device amplifies sound and how much benefit you are getting from it.
REM testing is especially important if you have difficulty understanding speech in noisy environments. This is because noise can cause interference, making it harder for you to hear what others are saying. By measuring the sound that comes through the hearing aid, your audiologist can adjust the settings to make it easier for you to hear speech in noise.
Overall, REM testing is a vital part of the hearing aid fitting process. It helps to ensure that you are getting the most benefit from your hearing aid and that it is correctly adjusted for your individual needs. If you are considering purchasing a hearing aid, be sure to ask your audiologist about this vital test.
And remember, if you are experiencing hearing loss, don’t hesitate to contact an audiologist near you for help. So be sure to visit the Albuquerque Hearing and Balance website to learn more about ear care and hearing loss treatments to improve your hearing; alternatively, contact us at (505) 750-9569. Hearing is such an important part of life, and there’s no reason to miss out on the things you love because of hearing loss.