ANA Discussion Forum
General Category => Hearing Issues => Topic started by: Denise S on May 01, 2012, 10:43:25 pm
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Y I P E E ! ! ! Y I P E E ! ! !
So, tomorrow is a BIG day for me, FINALLY!! I am going to see about getting a hearing device. I had fought insurance for a long time for a BAHA, but didn't work. Now some changes in my personal stuff & insurance. Now I can have coverage. So, I was SOOOO excited to go see this doctor about the BAHA.
Then, a few weeks ago I seen on a friend on Facebook posted about trying the New CROS, YEP, that's right, it's new. The Phonak CROS came out a little over a year ago. The size is WAY smaller than the old ones and it is wireless. I am able to get it through my local audiologist/ENT office (verses traveling for baha specialist). I was quoted $2,600 for it complete!!!! That is NO insurance coverage.
NOW, the decisions really need to start 're thinking'. SO, I am asking any of you with the newer CROS to please share your info here too. Hopefully besides myself, it may help others too!! I have heard a few things already on Facebook about the CROS and ALL is positive!!
Well, I'll keep you all posted how tomorrow goes & what all I find out!!
Thanks for 'listening' ;)
Denise S (MI)
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Here is a link to the CROS device. You can click on the side pdf files and the one that says USERS GUIDE.....if you scroll through that it will show how the BTE (behind the ear) device looks.....how small it is these days. Plus the variety of colors & options, etc.
ALSO.....while reading that page I clicked on something under the Features & Benefits.....Real Ear Sound. Click under that on the MORE and it shows you a demo type thing for localization / directionality. ;)
http://www.phonak.com/com/b2c/en/products/hearing_instruments/cros/overview.html (http://www.phonak.com/com/b2c/en/products/hearing_instruments/cros/overview.html)
I also have some other actual pictures of a brown one in a womans hand (for size comparison) and one next to a quarter...BUT, I don't have them loaded to my photobucket, yet ;-)
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(http://i794.photobucket.com/albums/yy229/dsan0614/th_PhonakCROSWendys.jpg) (http://s794.photobucket.com/albums/yy229/dsan0614/?action=view¤t=PhonakCROSWendys.jpg)
(http://i794.photobucket.com/albums/yy229/dsan0614/th_PhonakCROS.jpg) (http://s794.photobucket.com/albums/yy229/dsan0614/?action=view¤t=PhonakCROS.jpg)
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Denise - See all the posts on CROS vs. Soundbite. Here's my latest.
http://www.anausa.org/smf/index.php?topic=16863.msg979741510#msg979741510
I love the CROS solution.
When pricing the device, make sure you know whether your audiologist is including batteries for a period of time. Mine is supplying for 4 years. That's a $400-$500 value. So while my device was $3100, the true cost is more in the $2600-$2700 range.
You have nothing to lose by doing the trial. That will tell you a lot!
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Denise,
I hope you love the CROS. I'll be looking at trialing one soon. I am still appealing the BAHA refusal by BCBS so have some time to try the C until it is final with insurance.
Good luck. I'll be watching for your reviews.
Rich
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I saw an audiologist last week to start the ball rolling for me to try the Cros also...Cost is $ 2900 (no battery supply, though, Ross - other than a few to get me started). She is going thru the insurance hoops right now (pretty certain they will pay nothing) and then she will order one for me to try for 30 days. If I decide not to go with it, I will pay $ 300 for their time - is that the deal you guys had?
Keep us posted, Denise!
cindy
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I got the Cros in December and love it! At that time there really wasn't alot of talk about it on these boards.. just the BAHA mostly. I figured if more people on this board didn't have it maybe it wasn't that good but it is! Mine cost about 2,300 and insurance paid me back for everything minus a $400 co pay. Batteries last about 2 days which isn't too bad. Most people don't even notice I wear them.
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Traded in my BAHA Intenso for the new Cros/Bi-Cros and love it. It does eat batteries for me, they only last me two days. Mine are supplied by the VA so it's not a problem for me but, just so your aware. They are using the lowest power rated batteries, the p312's and I think they should modify so that 13 size would work. Just my opinion.
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Sounds like there a regional differences on cost and whether insurance pays for things so price comparisons look challenging.
MA for instance doesn't cover hearing aids. But other states do.
Some audiologists supply batteries for an extended period, others don't.
All the prices reflected thus far seem all within a reasonable range given these differences.
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I got the Cros in December and love it! At that time there really wasn't alot of talk about it on these boards.. just the BAHA mostly. I figured if more people on this board didn't have it maybe it wasn't that good but it is! Mine cost about 2,300 and insurance paid me back for everything minus a $400 co pay. Batteries last about 2 days which isn't too bad. Most people don't even notice I wear them.
Phillies....I think there wasn't much talk on here because most of us hadn't been aware of the changes/upgrades to the CROS product. That only came out just over a year ago ;) That is why though I wanted to be sure to bring it up on the forum AND on some facebook pages. So many people have no clue. Many don't see any audiologist after so long or even maybe no doctors after so long, so they don't get chance to hear of updates.
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Ross....thanks for link to other topic page, I've been part of that one too ;)
Cindy, my cost for the Phonak CROS is $2,600 and it (like you and unlike Ross) don't include batteries. Of course it is supposed to be lifetime adjusting, cleaning. Think it was 2 year full warranty. I DID have my local audiologist order me some today! I have 30 days trial and if I don't keep them it will be $200. I wonder why that varies so much too...??? Wish it was that you'd pay nothing.....but sounds like most people are keeping them anyways.
I did go see the other doctor about the baha implant again. I was given another headband trial and just not been happy with it AT ALL. They think it may be my thick hair and I can't get a good connection through it. Oh well. They are checking with my secondary insurance to see if they will cover it. Just not sure what to do or think.
For 'now' I'm waiting for the CROS & hope all goes well!
QUESTION: those of you that already have the CROS....do you a clear plug type thing that goes INTO your deaf ear???? Not talking the tiny tube thing to help hold it in place, I mean in the actual canal, like an ear plug would be.
How about the good ear side? I was told not needed for deaf side, but yes for good side.
THANKS
Denise S (MI)
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Those that already have the Phonak CROS...what is the name of your actual device? My audiologist ordered me the Cassia (I think petite size)
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BAHA - hands down! ;D
Jan >:D
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BAHA - hands down! ;D
Jan >:D
Jan - Have you been able to evaluate both technologies?
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Denise,
My Cros works with my Audeo S smart hearing aid. The Audeo S is a BTE and uses a very small tube into the ear canal. The Cros just had a retention hook over the ear but I was afraid it would fall off and I'd lose it so I chose to have an open-tip Cros retention which is an ear mold, hollow, but works as an anchor. The audiolgist said there were other options but this works good for me. Phonak Cros will work with many hearing aids. Check out their web site for more info.
Paul
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BAHA - hands down! ;D
Jan >:D
Jan - Have you been able to evaluate both technologies?
Thanks for asking Ross. It depends on what you mean by "evaluate".
Prior to my BAHA implant, I spoke at great length with my neurotologist about both the Cros and the BAHA and relied heavily on his opinion (as I trust him implicitly). He has patients who have had both and the general concensus is that they prefer the BAHA. I also relied on the opinion of others on this Forum who got BAHA implants before me.
I've always said that the BAHA isn't for everyone and I firmly believe that the Cros isn't for everyone either. I learned enough about the Cros to know it wasn't right for me.
Denise knows very well my love for the BAHA - both from the Forum and from Facebook.
My post was just a little reinforcement of my opinion and she knows that.
Jan
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I would like to know if anyone out there in the Forum has gone from a BAHA to a Cros or a BiCros. I would be interested in knowing the difference in sound quality, volume and any issues that have been found with the Cros. Thanks.
Dale
PS I have the new Cochlear Intenso now for my BAHA. I am much happier with it than without it, but there are still some occasional issues with feedback. Not as bad as they were, but still present.
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Dale,
I went from an Intenso to the Phonak Bi-Cros about a year ago, right after the new Cros came out. For me, the sound is much more natural with the Cros. It seems all the BAHA did was amplify every sound and it actually drowned out the half-way decent sound I was hearing in my better ear. Thats because the BAHA is not programed along with the other hearing device as the Cros is. I love the Cros.
Paul
P.S. I can wear a hat again and no more staining my pillows.
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With technology changing so quickly, anyone who evaluated the CROS even one year ago would be out of date with their information. Based on Paul's assessment, other BAHA wearers may want to revisit their choices. It certainly would be easy enough to make the evaluation.
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Hahaha Jan....YES I for sure know you are BAHA hands down ;) But, I have to say....I love your 'devil' horns face. ;D
b u t.....just so you know, the CROS has been updated, just like Ross said in the last post. A lot of people hear CROS and cringe, because of what it used to be like. It is amazing how far they have come, but yet sad that it has taken SO long!!
I ordered a CROS system on Tuesday because I want to see if it will be good enough for me. Still need to hear back from secondary insurance to see of coverage for a BAHA AND the office can't give me an exact idea how much it will cost.
I have heard NOTHING but positive on this Newer Phonak CROS, so that is all good!!
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The Cros really is great! When my audiologist first mentioned it to me late last year I just cringed as all I thought of were the old posts from this board. With the Cros as good as it is, I can't see why, in my opinion, this shouldn't be tried first before going for surgery with a BAHA. It really does work wonders....
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(http://i794.photobucket.com/albums/yy229/dsan0614/CROS-Copy.jpg)
SO, this picture shows a piece that goes into each ear, I 'think' the red is in the good ear to get the sound and the green side is to help 'anchor' it there. Is this correct?? ANOTHER option below:
(http://i794.photobucket.com/albums/yy229/dsan0614/PhonakCROS-Copy.jpg)
Now this is one like my audi told me I'd get......the red circle is for the bad ear and this little thing DON'T go into the ear canal. It is basically a loop that hooks into the top of the ear for anchoring (right)?
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The Cros really is great! When my audiologist first mentioned it to me late last year I just cringed as all I thought of were the old posts from this board. With the Cros as good as it is, I can't see why, in my opinion, this shouldn't be tried first before going for surgery with a BAHA. It really does work wonders....
Thanks, between all the comments I've seen here on the forum, on Facebook and other Hearing forums, I'd say you are RIGHT ON!!
At least now there is an "actual" option for everyone, especially those that don't have insurance that will cover a BAHA implant!!!
THANKS for your input!! For me A N D for future people!! It's good to spread the word, because SO MANY don't realize the CROS has been upgraded!!
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In gadget terms prior to this last upgrade the CROS was the SONY Walkman. Interesting, but outmoded. Now it's the latest iPhone. It's worth a new look :-)
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Denise, you are correct.
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Denise -
you have some wonderful points here. Sounds like the new Cros is a very good solution for those who are SSD.
Personally I can't imagine ditching my BAHA especially because of what it cost my insurance company for the surgery and my first processor (Divino) and also because what it cost me for my second processor (BP100). But then again, I am extremely happy with my BAHA, always have been and probably always will be, so I have no reason to look farther.
To each his/her own!
Jan
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P.S. I can wear a hat again and no more staining my pillows.
Point well taken about the hat - although it's important to note that some docs will try to accomodate you when placing the BAHA site so that you can wear a hat. It's not always possible, due to bone density of the skull, but if you have a favorite hat it doesn't hurt to take it your doc and see if he can place your site so that you can still wear it post implant.
As for the staining of the pillows, this has never been an issue for me. With the exception of the first few days post implant when the site is still draining, this is not a normal occurrence. And the first few post implant the site has a bandage on it, so it's not usually an issue then either.
Jan
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I was wondering what you meant by staining the pillows too?? If from leakage, and not fairly new, should get it checked ;)
Jan....I'm just trying spread the word on this newer option!! So many are unaware that the CROS has been greatly updated!!
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I had constant draining from around the abutment, sometimes more than others. When I had the abutment removed, the doctor took a culture which showed I had some sort of staff (sp) infection which we then cleared up with antibiotics. Not sure if was caused by the abutment or the implants. I have two, one is a sleeper. Both still penetrate my skin and can been seen. I had hoped the skin would grow over them but thats not happening.
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Denise -
Some of my posts touting the BAHA have been a tongue in cheek response to Ross ;D , but in all sincerity the BAHA has been the answer to my SSD problem. I don't think that's a secret to anyone.
That said, I think you are wise to spread the word about the new Phonak CROS as it may be the solution to your SSD as well as the solution for others.
As I've always stated, the BAHA isn't for everyone. There are other options out there and it's great that people have choices.
I commend you for sharing,
Jan
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Denise -- When I first got my Phonak, I had the hook that just went in the top of your ear for my deaf side. I ended up switching it to the same type of hook(?) that was in my good ear, except without the wires. I did not feel confident that the top of the ear hook would be enough to keep the hearing aid on.
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QUESTION: those of you that already have the CROS....do you a clear plug type thing that goes INTO your deaf ear???? Not talking the tiny tube thing to help hold it in place, I mean in the actual canal, like an ear plug would be.
How about the good ear side? I was told not needed for deaf side, but yes for good side.
THANKS
Denise S (MI)
Denise:
I have posted extensively on a couple of other threads about my positive experience with the CROS. To answer your specific question: I have the behind the ear models for both ears. My good ear had the tiny clear tube that goes into my ear canal from the behind-the-ear main part. My deaf ear is also behind-the-ear, but just has the little clear hook, that hooks into the fold at the top of the are simply to anchor it into place.
Lee
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Denise -- When I first got my Phonak, I had the hook that just went in the top of your ear for my deaf side. I ended up switching it to the same type of hook(?) that was in my good ear, except without the wires. I did not feel confident that the top of the ear hook would be enough to keep the hearing aid on.
GLAD to know you can change that "hook" part if needed! THanks!!
LEE,
Yes, I am am following ALL the other ones you are on two, but since I started this one, this is where I figured to ask the questions. THANKS
Actually I wonder if a thread should be started that is JUST newer Phonak CROS!!! So many people comment on the other stuff, whereas people just need info on the CROS only ;)
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I JUST came from the audiologist/ENT appointment to access whether or not I'm a good BAHA user - and I am. But I am disappointed by what the ENT said as well as the headband test BAHA.
ENT said never to expect to hear well enough through BAHA to understand speech. What I COULD hear from the test product sounded like an old B&W portable TV from the 70's before they put really decent speakers into the small ones. I had a hard time even SENSING the BAHA - except I figured out that I could plug my good ear and hear only what was coming from the BAHA. Which as described earlier as amplification of all noise seems accurate.
Now, nobody has mentioned anything about those of us that wear glasses. And I have to wear them ALL THE TIME! What about the Cros being attached to glasses - hence no need for the over the ear hooks? I'm also not too keen on going through all the surgical stuff to get a sub-par hearing device that may save my life from walking out in front of a moving vehicle, but not helping me with head shadow suffered during conversations. I HATE having to say "I need to sit there in order to hear you" or "walk on my right side so I can hear you" and not be able to hear my mumbling husband in the car since it's my left ear that's deaf. So all-in-all I like the idea of giving something without surgery a spin to see how it helps....
Is my ENT way wrong about the BAHA? Jan - the ad on Cochlear is from a man leading a business meeting and having someone whisper in his BAHA ear they have to leave the meeting - and HEARING it! Who's right? :o
Pam ???
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Pam - I wear glasses all the time and I use the CROS. No problem. The CROS BTE is so low profile that glasses simply sit right next to them.
Since you can trial the CROS, it is definitely worth checking out. The trial will give you the opportunity to experience exactly what it will be like once you purchase. You have 30-45 days to spend time with it before you have to make a decision. Sounds pretty good to me.
As I've posted before, I just made the commitment to purchase my set. I'm happy with what it is providing me. It has a lot of positives.
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It's definitely providential that I found this BEFORE going in for the BAHA surgery!!!! Plus great since the test headband and ENT's opinion of what to expect fall waaaay short of what I was looking for! You can test drive a car - but something like the BAHA is impossible to test. Think I'll call tomorrow about the Cros - they list my ENT clinic as one that carries it. Sure wish she had taken the time today to talk to me about other options....but I went in there gung ho about the BAHA and that's ALL they showed me!!!!
Pam
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I was all gung-ho about moving forward with Soundbite. Even gave my $600 deposit. But after my consultation, they were two weeks slow in getting back to me with he name of the dentist who was to do the impression. Within that two week period I started reading about CROS on these boards. Once hearing about it, I made the decision to test CROS. And the rest is history. So glad that Boston Medical didn't quite have its act together on Soundbite! Their delay was my gain. It's possible that I would have loved Soundbite, but Phonak has been around for many, many years and the new CROS is based on some really reliable technology. Soundbite only started distributing since November.
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Just have to add in here that choosing a hearing assistance device is a very personal decision ..... just as is making a treatment decision. We are on this forum to support one another in whatever direction each of us goes ..... while at the same time sharing our individual experiences to assist in the decision-making process.
That being said, as is frequently said on here "individual results may vary." I am convinced that because we each have unique brains, we cannot say "if you get _______ , you will be able to hear well." So much depends upon our own hearing loss, anatomy of our brain, function of our brain, any damage done during treatment, etc.
Bottom line: once again it is really necessary to go with your gut on this after you have the facts before you.
One fact correction: I can understand speech perfectly well through my Ponto Pro BAHA. But remember if someone is whispering to you, they must whisper into the processor not into your deaf ear.
Clarice
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Clarice, you make wonderful points. The choice ultimately needs to be based on individual fit and preferences. I've found this site so helpful since it has allowed me to hear the various experiences out there. There is no other site like it. Truly a blessing. Had I not tapped in and been able to ask all my questions, I'd be at a loss.
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Pam,
Wearing the headband is NOTHING like what the BAHA really sounds like when it is attached to your head. I really did not like the BAHA with the headband at all, but the audiologist and surgeon promised me that would not be the sound quality I would have once I had the abutment. They were right. And, like the ad on the Cochlear site, I DO HEAR when someone whispers in my deaf ear. In a noisy room I may not hear them as clearly, but at least I know they are talking to me. With a less noisy background I hear VERY well on my deaf side with excellent word discrimination. Even though I have had feedback issues, I am so much better off with the BAHA than without.
Dale
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Question...some of the posts have confused me. What is the difference between the Cros and the Bi-Cros?
Dale
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Question...some of the posts have confused me. What is the difference between the Cros and the Bi-Cros?
Dale
CROS is used when your good ear hears well. Bi-CROS is used when your good ear needs a boost with a hearing aid. Setup is the same in both. Just the good side aid amplifies the good side.
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Dale,
I have an appointment for next friday to go to a completely different ENT that deals with both Oticon and Cochlear and Phonak. I can try a Cros for $100 for 30 days (SO worth it!) and she's also going to send me home with an Oticon BAHA headband to test fully. The ENT I went to first I think is a complete joke. He was young and brash and didn't know what he was talking about. I now know that what he told was wasn't true. Will NOT return to that group!
Pam
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ENT said never to expect to hear well enough through BAHA to understand speech. What I COULD hear from the test product sounded like an old B&W portable TV from the 70's before they put really decent speakers into the small ones. I had a hard time even SENSING the BAHA - except I figured out that I could plug my good ear and hear only what was coming from the BAHA. Which as described earlier as amplification of all noise seems accurate.
Is my ENT way wrong about the BAHA? Jan - the ad on Cochlear is from a man leading a business meeting and having someone whisper in his BAHA ear they have to leave the meeting - and HEARING it! Who's right? :o
Pam -
the ENT is full of sh*t. I understand speech perfectly with my BAHA and I can relate to the Cochlear ad. I think the ENT is just anti-BAHA.
My experience is like Dale's (except for the feedback issues; I don't have any of those).
As for your question about glasses. I'm near-sighted and wear glasses every time I drive at night (plus on some other occasions). I also wear sunglasses almost every day. My BAHA isn't a problem. My glasses fit fine, and they don't cause feedback.
Jan
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Pam, Also, right before my procedure, they had me put my sunglasses on because those have a thicker arm than my regular glasses. They drew a line on my head where the top of the sun glasses arm would be, and made sure the BAHA was above that. I'm sure they can do that for you if you ask. Also, so glad you are going to another doctor. My word discrimination, as I said earlier, is great.
Dale
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As I've told you before, I love you Jan and always will but I have Ehlers Danlos Syndrome and do very badly with even the tiniest surgery like the BAHA. When Dr. Niparko heard from his resident that I didn't want the BAHA, he walked out of the room without even a goodbye. Money is money and he had no more time for me if I weren't doing the BAHA. Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a curse that you don't want to live through. Anyway I went to an audiologist this morning for my father and was a good way to test him out since Angie's List recommended him as the best audiologist in the entire DC area. He said he was having trouble with the Transear but I took that as tongue in check since the TransEar is doing well with others on our Forum. Should I go down then to Johnson City TENN ... no, now that I have heard that the CROS ear is available for a trial, why not try it out and if not satisfied, then go for the TransEar. We have time as Jim says. There is no reason to rush into this situation. The technology is changing daily so just hang on until the technology is right for you.
Hugs to you all.
Mei Mei
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I'm just jumping in here and very excited about what I am reading. The batteries are not a problem as they can be gotten t Costco so no worry. It' a problem thought hat you have to change them all the time. Maybe I should wiat a year for longer battery life. I am not in a situation for need to hear a lot of people. It is a problem or a nuisance to not hear people in a restaurant. u i it is just a luxury.
I hope yo all find solutions to you hearing problems.
Love,
Mei Mei
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Thanks for the love, Mei Mei.
I'm not suggesting the BAHA for you - and I agree with Clarice, it's a personal choice.
Was simply answering Pam's questions.
Glad you found a good audiologist. As for Dr. Niparko, based on what you told us, if he were my doc I'd fire him.
Best,
Jan
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OK, just for some more clarification here.....is the Cros a device used only on one side, but the Bi Cros has a component for both sides? Thanks.
Dale
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Both sides. Deaf side is transmitter, good side is receiver hearing aid. In the instance of a Bi-CROS, the hearing aid on the good side is programmed to help that ear hear better since the hearing is not no longer in "normal" range. Check out the Phonak site. You'll see there is a lot of information on both set ups.
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Ross, thanks. On the Phonak website it looks like there is both a BTE piece and an ITC piece. Is that accurate? you need both?
thanks.
Dale
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I would imagine that by definition the Bi-Cros is two pieces (bi = having two).
Jan
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Right, but they both have two BTE pieces. They are just used differently in Cros and Bi Cros. I just wonder about the ear molds...I am not sure I would do well with something in my ear other than the little wire.
Dale
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You can start off with the BTE version. If it's all good, then you don't need to think about an ITE mold. The BTE pieces are also so low profile that people have a hard time knowing that you even have them on.
Went to a loud party last night. Did reasonably well, CROS has its limitations. Too much noise is just too much noise. I'm learning to manage my expectations :-)
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Posted this question to the other Cros discussion....I'm looking for batteries to prepare for this hungry device that I'll receive on Friday....which ones perform best at best cost? Any suggestions?
Pam
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I'm not much help, but at the ANA support group 2 weeks ago the topic was hearing aids and they said you could not use Energizer. Your audiologist should have alot of experience in this area.
Good luck.
Becky
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I may just give her a call even though I haven't seen her yet. She said they sell the batteries for $1 a piece...which is astronomical....so I need to find out what batteries I CAN use with it during my trial period....
Pam
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Jan,
I've already told you I love you dearly but there are some of us that cannot have the BAHA. I have Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and any more surgery no matter how small become major. Major pain and major scarring and I just cannot risk any more problems than I already have.
Hugs,
Mei Mei
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Jan,
I've already told you I love you dearly but there are some of us that cannot have the BAHA. I have Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and any more surgery no matter how small become major. Major pain and major scarring and I just cannot risk any more problems than I already have.
Hugs,
Mei Mei
We interrupt this program in an attempt to avoid any misunderstandings.
Mei Mei ~
As we all know, Jan is an unapologetic fan of the BAHA because it has been a godsend for her, which makes her passion about it quite logical. However, she has stated numerous times on this thread that she understands the BAHA is not for everyone. In post #47 Jan addressed you directly and stated that she was not suggesting the BAHA for you. I'm sure Jan completely understands that your EDS precludes you from undergoing the necessary BAHA implant surgery. Jan has been responding to various other posts regarding the options for hearing devices and has not been coy about her personal preference for the BAHA but, as she has posted, the choice of a hearing device is very personal. I do not see Jan's replies to anyone here (or elsewhere) taking the form of insisting that the BAHA is the one and only solution to being SSD. She is very astute and always makes it clear that her choice (of the BAHA) is not necessary the right choice for anyone else.
I trust that a careful reading of Jan's posts on this thread will validate that contention and by doing so, avoid unnecessary misunderstandings.
Now, back to our regularly scheduled program.
Jim
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We interrupt this program in an attempt to avoid any misunderstandings.
Thanks Jim... and all! *eyeballs bullwhip by my side*.... just in case......* Phyl
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I just noticed I posted twice on this. I wanted to let all of you know that for the past year I've been going through a lot of cognitive issues. I send emails that I don't remember sending and then send again. Yesterday I went to the dentist for a check up and asked to schedule the appointment for the filling and they said that I was there in March and the filling was done. I have no recollection of it or many of the conversations or emails I've sent. It's of great concern to me. Well I've had 4 surgeries since 2010 and then the problem where the doctor at Cleveland Clinic gave me several injections through the Titanium mesh causing me to be put on life support for a day. That a lot of anesthesia for one brain. The doctor said it should take a year to settle down. I don't know if I should go to a Memory Clinic for this or just wait it out.
No misunderstandings, honest. I'm just coping with a memory problem right now.
As for Dr. N. he's been fired as well as Dr. T. Georgetown just published a paper on the followup of AN patients. Off the cuff the nurse practitioner said there were too many coming to them from Hopkins and that they were going to arrange to speak to them about this. I do hope he will listen. In the meantime, anyone who calls or writes, I tell them to stay away from Hopkins.
Sincerely,
Mei Mei
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I got my Cros yesterday, but also came home with an Oticon Ponto to test as well. I'm not sure about the programming of the Cros - but it seems to pick up rustling noises very VERY easily! Like the nylon jacket I was wearing yesterday - or a similar pitch level in daily living. I gave it an extreme test yesterday by playing golf after being fitted - and I'm not really sure how much I like it.
I have BTE on both pieces for the Cros - and the transmitter is VERY easy to knock off my ear. I did it during golf and adjusting my hat and sunglasses - fortunately was aware as soon as the tones began telling me it had fallen out of range. I found it though than heavens!
I also wore it to the restaurant afterwards and it really didn't seem to help with carrying on a conversation across the table. It wasn't a horribly noisy place - but not a smaller room either.
I'll continue to wear and test it today - but since I AM able to have the surgery for the BAHA - I can say that even though the sound was a bit muffled on the Oticon Ponto I am testing, it is greatly different. Wish it didn't look so weird as a headband because I'd test it more in public settings. Maybe I'll try a hat or something and see if it covers it up enough to wear it away from home.
I was able to sense direction with the BAHA - not with the Cros. Haven't tried the BAHA and my nylon coat yet - but the Cros got downright annoying with catching that sound from everywhere. (and not knowing where the sound was coming from.....)
I CAN see how the Cros would be an answer for those without insurance or eligible for surgery definitely. I think if I wasn't able to compare the two of them personally and only had the Cros I might be happier with it - but my intent is to choose between the two.
Pam
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Maybe I'll try a hat or something and see if it covers it up enough to wear it away from home.
Wearing a hat with a BAHA processor typically causes feedback (aka squealing).
Jan
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Pam,
This is an important time for you so don't be self conscious about what people will think of you if you are wearing a device in public...
Mei Mei
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I had an audiologist appointment today and I got a prescription for the Phonak Cros, so now I am shopping around. My understanding from the forum was that the Phonak does not help with directionality. However the audiologist insisted that after a while the brain gets used to the aid, and gets retrained so that eventually some directionality is gained.
Does anyone have any experience with this? Have you been told something similar?
Marianna
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I got my Cros yesterday, but also came home with an Oticon Ponto to test as well. I'm not sure about the programming of the Cros - but it seems to pick up rustling noises very VERY easily! Like the nylon jacket I was wearing yesterday - or a similar pitch level in daily living. I gave it an extreme test yesterday by playing golf after being fitted - and I'm not really sure how much I like it.
I have BTE on both pieces for the Cros - and the transmitter is VERY easy to knock off my ear. I did it during golf and adjusting my hat and sunglasses - fortunately was aware as soon as the tones began telling me it had fallen out of range. I found it though than heavens!
I also wore it to the restaurant afterwards and it really didn't seem to help with carrying on a conversation across the table. It wasn't a horribly noisy place - but not a smaller room either.
I'll continue to wear and test it today - but since I AM able to have the surgery for the BAHA - I can say that even though the sound was a bit muffled on the Oticon Ponto I am testing, it is greatly different. Wish it didn't look so weird as a headband because I'd test it more in public settings. Maybe I'll try a hat or something and see if it covers it up enough to wear it away from home.
I was able to sense direction with the BAHA - not with the Cros. Haven't tried the BAHA and my nylon coat yet - but the Cros got downright annoying with catching that sound from everywhere. (and not knowing where the sound was coming from.....)
I CAN see how the Cros would be an answer for those without insurance or eligible for surgery definitely. I think if I wasn't able to compare the two of them personally and only had the Cros I might be happier with it - but my intent is to choose between the two.
Pam
They easily fall off?? I run and work out with my cros on all the time and never once did they ever fall out. Sounds like you have a loose fitting.
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They easily fall off?? I run and work out with my cros on all the time and never once did they ever fall out. Sounds like you have a loose fitting.
I ride a bike with a helmet, run around all the time, as well, and never once did my aids fall off. For the BTE transmitter, I use the attachment that goes into my ear canal vs. the one that hugs the ear lobe. My audiologist who used to work for Phonak said that the ear lobe anchor only works for certain people whose ears have the right lobe configuration. Most of her patients wind up using the version that I have.
There is also an option to get a mold made to make the ear canal holder more custom fitting. I'm thinking of doing that...I've been told it is more comfortable than the generic fitting.
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When I received my Cros, it came with just a small hook that laid over the top of my ear. It would pop off every time I removed my glasses or moved my head quickly. I then found out that for a real secure fitting, a hollow ear mold can be attached as an anchor. That is what I have now. They never fall off.
Paul
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Thanks Paul...that is exactly what I want to do.
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Pam,
I am curious as to the outcome of your trial and comparison with the Cros and the Oticon Baha. What did you decide?
Dale
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I have had the Phonak cros for one year. It is comfortable and improved my hearing some. Nothing like the two ears I used to have but I like them. Tweety
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Been doing my Hearing device trial....the newer Phonak CROS. Well, only been 2 weeks and for starters on side does have a thin clear tube thing that goes in my ear....it was hurting bad, so audiologist gave me smaller one. I am not sure it is working well enough, UGH!!! If someone is setting next to me on my deaf ear I 'thought' it would pick them up, but it don't seem to be, unless they are loud or looking straight at me. How is it working in those situation for others? I have 3 settings and tried them all. This is frustrating!!!
SORRY I haven't updated (since I started this topic) :( I just haven't been happy with any of the trials so far. I did the Oticon Ponto Pro on a metal headband for a week and felt like I got nothing from that either. B U T, it wouldn't stay put on my head and the band was increasing my already bad headaches. I called that audiologist again just now and will go in 2 weeks and get a Soft band Cochlear BAHA BP110 trial, maybe it will stay put better. I have very thick, soft hair too, so wonder if that is why it moves so much.?.?
This is frustrating!! If all this stuff wasn't so expensive, it wouldn't be such a difficult decision ;)
THANKS for listening ;)
Denise (MI)
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Denise, I'm sorry this is proving frustrating. No fun in that!
I have found that depending on the situation, the effectiveness of CROS can be on both sides of spectrum. It's either really great and feels like a miracle or just not effective enough and disappointing. I've been wearing them now for a while and have learned that I can count on them in lower noise environments (like meetings) where the people on my deaf side would be inaudible to me otherwise. But in noisier settings I find that it's better not to even turn them on as the microphone picks up too much ambient sound that actually makes the situation worse!
I don't have to be facing the person to hear them. In fact, I pick up sound really well when he/she is next to me in places like movie theatres. We're able to carry on a complete conversation and I marvel at not having to crane my neck.
Which environments are proving the most challenging for you? Don't expect too much in very noisy places. But in reasonable places like moderately noisy restaurants you should experience a boost. If that's not happening, something may be not quite right with the hearing aid or transmitter.
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Hi Denise,
The hard band hurt my head too. The soft band was much better, but I still did not get the full effect from the BAHA. I have to say that the real thing, once implanted is far better than the trial with the band. Therefore, the trials only give you a slight glimpse of what you might expect, but not the full impact. Different with the Cros, because you are actually wearing it the way you would wear it permanently. If you are going to try the BP100 on a soft band, see if you can also try the ponto pro that way and see if you can tell any difference between them. I think it's a little different for different people.
Let us know.
Dale
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Denise,
When I was first fitted, the audio said "that's it". I told her I didn't see much difference from SSD side. I asked her if she had some sort of clicker or sound maker. We used a pen that had a pocket clip on it. I would pop it on one side and then the other. I couldn't even hear it on the SSD side. She was amazed and made some changes to the programming, back and forth until both sides were equal volume. I've been wearing these for over a year and think now I will go back and see if the volume can be raised on both sides. What I notice the most is that I have much better word recognition with the aides but that has nothing to do with the Cros part, just the hearing aide.
It seems that some audios are going strictly by what the software tells them to do. This was the first Bi-Cros she has done with the new Phonak.
I hope it all works out for you.
Paul
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I thought I had updated status here, but don't see it.
Anyways after "trying"my 2nd CROS device I hadn't gotten any better results and wasn't overly happy with it. B U T, I did get to try the Cochlear BAHA on a soft headnand and was very happy with the results! It actually was the BAHA Power (BP 110) . I was told they used the Power because it would get better results on the headband. My actual device though will be the BP100, supposedly because my hearing on my good ear is perfect. They said once it ossinegrates into the bone the conduction & sound should be good for my needs.
SO, I had my surgery Tuesday of this week, Oct 2nd and my 'Gotcha' date is Dec 19th, just in time for Christmas!! :•) Yeah!!
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Congratulations, Denise!
Jim
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Thanks Jim!!
Now I feel like a little kid waiting for Christmas :) since my Gotcha day is Dec 19th!
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Phonak CROS... is terrific. I have had mine now for a couple of months. Right from the first day, I found it amazing to hear from my deaf side. I was in a restaurant and a friend was 4 tables down on my deaf side and I could hear what she was saying, it was amazing! I also find it very helpful at work. Sometimes at work it can get really busy with a lot of clients in at one time, which makes for a very noisy environment. The CROS seems to allow me to focus on the one conversation I am in and not just jumble up all the noise around, even though it is still there. They were really easy to get used to as well. The only very small down side, is that the batteries don't last very long. They only last a few days. Because of this, I take them out when I am at home, as I can hear conversations fine without them, when it is only one thing at at time. I would highly recommend them to anyone with SSD. :) :) :)
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One of the members in our Atl support group last weekend shared her experience with the Phonak Cros which she just got a few months ago - she loves it! Had nothing but good things to say about it - was a good "show and tell" moment for all of us ;D Hers was even covered by her BCBS insurance (she works for the Fed gov). Another member is getting his this week...
I'm still considering it, just not quite ready to spend the money (my BCBS does not cover it :-[)
cindy