ANA Discussion Forum
General Category => Hearing Issues => Topic started by: Boppie on January 24, 2007, 03:49:34 pm
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I have wondered why my audiologist encouraged me to not turn my TransEar higher than 2 or 2½ for the adjustment period. I have been using my aid since late October. I turned it to 3 last night and experienced a new comfortable volume of sound that I couldn't tolerate in November. Small surprises! So nice! The brain needs time to adjust to new situations.
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boppie can I borrow your transear? I'll give you a gold monkey LOL
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It's good to hear all of these pointers. I should have my TransEar in another two and a half weeks. It sounds like you go through batteries quickly. How is that part of it going for you?
Jean
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Well a working person might need a new battery every third day. I think I am getting 20 hours out of mine and that lasts me about a week since I only wear mine four or five hours at a time. I don't put my aid on at home unless I have grandsons over. They are learning to read. High interest in talking. Since I got the aid I have become very secure about knowing I can be deaf on one side and "escape". That is shocking, isn't it? Did you read that I am picking up subtle clues about direction? My head twirling has stopped, at least. :)
TransEar also said they are developing a more efficient BTE, so the battery driver might improve too. Wouldn't that be peachy? Batteries are a way of life for hearing aids...not expensive though.
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I just posted in another thread regarding my TransEar update. I mentioned that I was asked to try the new prototype of TransEar II, as I was not getting enough benefit from TransEar I. I should get it in 2 weeks and will keep everyone posted.
With my first TransEar, I changed batteries every 4-5 days. Even though I was not getting enough benefit from the first model, I sure miss what benefit I was getting.
I am excited for you Jean, I know you will be very happy with your TransEar ;D
Yeah Boppie!! It is amazing how the brain readjusts. I remember the first few days with my TransEar, I was very upset because I was hearing nothing and then suddenly on day 5, the sound of my typing took on a much different tone and volume.
Cheryl
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Yippe skippe all good news for those of us still waiting....Sounds to me like that 3 hour drive to jax will be worth it to get the transear :o)
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Yeah! today is the day to fit the new ear molds for the Transear. I am armed with a lot of questions about the new model. They think I will get my aid in about two to two and a half weeks. I am anxious. With balance problems the twirling around to hear is a danger. I did that a couple of days ago and slammed into a door frame. I had not done that in months and it came as quite a shock to me. My skinny ear canals have be a real problem. I am keeping my fingers crossed that this will work this time.
Sandy
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Yeah! today is the day to fit the new ear molds for the Transear. I am armed with a lot of questions about the new model. They think I will get my aid in about two to two and a half weeks. I am anxious. With balance problems the twirling around to hear is a danger. I did that a couple of days ago and slammed into a door frame. I had not done that in months and it came as quite a shock to me. My skinny ear canals have be a real problem. I am keeping my fingers crossed that this will work this time.
Sandy
Sandy,
SO thrilled for you! Please keep us updated.. and have to ask.. how bad did you bruise the door frame? ;)
Can't wait for your new ear!
xo
Phyl
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Phyl,
Shoulder and door frame are both OK. Just a shock to me at this time. I had not done that in a long, long time. Mostly my balance is OK. The doc. has me walk the line and march and I am all over the place. NOt good at all. As far as every day things go I am fine. They say I am just compensating. What ever it is I'll take it.
Sandy
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Sandy,
Glad to hear the door frame (and your shoulder) are not going to file a claim with your homeowner's policy! :)
I hear you on that balance issue... interesting that, to me (and I may be wrong), but overall readings from other AN patients, regardless of treatment, balance is the key issue (besides hearing loss). I'm sorry to hear it's been acting up. BTW, when doing my heel-toe test, I have yet to pass the test in years. Feel like a "weebil" (toy)... "weebils wobble but they don't fall down"
Keep us posted on the TransEar. I think matti (cheryl) has the same issue with narrow ear canals or such.... both of you... little ears but boy oh boy, massive big hearts! :)
xo
Phyl
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Sandy, take care of that shoulder...if any stiffness shows up, keep that thing moving through all of the range of motion, up, out, behind, and over.
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I keep telling the doctors I could not do those things before CK. If ever. Have always been a klutz. I know I haven't had a tumor all of my life. I think they make me do these things so they can get a good laugh. Mostly I don't feel dizzy. Don't turn into walls any more (only the door jamb). I can just see me if I ever got pickied up by the police. You all would have to bail me out. Maybe we should start a fund.
Sandy
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Sandy - Are you getting TransEar I or II ? I am excited for us ;D
I have had a permanent bruise on my right arm/shoulder for almost 9 years, as without fail, I keep misjudging the SAME corner in my hallway :(
Hugs,
Cheryl
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Sandy, I have small ear canals too. That's why my TransEar is taking longer. so they can do it. I also learned this week that my insurance will cover $1541 of the cost since it covers hearing aids. I thought about trying to get them to pay the whole cost because it's replacing my ear sort of, but I figure this way they will have to pay again in 3 years when I may need a new one.
I tried the heal toe walking. I can do it fairly well. I think that's because before all of this I had excellent balance (and I'm a stubborn Swede lol). Even when I was cross country skiing this week and my kids came up behind me and scared me I didn't fall over. Teenagers are so loving. lol
Boppie, that's great news that you are starting to sense direction. I'm so excited to get my TransEar. Sandy and I should get it about the same time.
Jean
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Hey Boppie thats Cool the transear is working for you!
I talked to a REAL cool local audiologist that is investigating the Translab I mean TRANSEAR@ haha! possibility for me. I like this idea of 'escape"-thing is you stated about some Head spin thing, I just got done with the Head spin and dont want to have to face it all again! woooooohoooo :D
His only concern is that they are a young company, and at worst could go out of business and not being able to get ear gear and such. :o
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Heck at the rate we're going we will keep them in business :o I'm hoping to get mine started this month!
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I can only think that the TransEar will continue to improve its product and hang onto its patent and unique design for a bone conduction aid that you wear in the ear canal. They are pursuing a European market, too! I doubt they will do anything but grow up as a company.
I only anticipate a change in brands when my good ear hearing drops off further. I am not NF2 but have a small loss in the upper reaches in the good ear. :(
ixta, I can't figure out that funny guy in the blue bat man costume . Is he smoking out mosquitos? Celebrating something? Quite a fun guy, I think. February 5 update. I get it he's carrying a batman torch. Is that it? He is running faster thatn a speeding bullet. Is that it? :D
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I contacted Rick at TransEar to find out which TransEar I'm getting. I'll be receiving TransEar II. They should get it about February 15th. Hopefully I will receive it shortly after that. I'm in line after Cheryl. Sandy, which one are you getting? Too bad we can't all get together and have a TransEar party. lol Hope Batty will be joining us also.
Jean
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I also contacted Rick Gilbert last week to find out why I have not received my TransEar yet ???. Apparently there was a "little" mishap with my prototype, so I am now first in line when the new transducers arrive.
YEAH Jean!!! I am excited we will be getting our Transear's at the same time, look forward to sharing the experience with you. I hope Sandy gets hers as well. Batty we are waiting for you.... :-*
The newer version is called TransEar 270, so if anyone is interested please ask your audiologist.
hugs,
Cheryl
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Good for you, matti. Keep us up to date when yours gets in your ear.
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Got my numbers to contact tomorrow to see who can help me :o) If not I'm heading to Jacksonville!
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I haven't heard back from my audio guy on the progress of my Transear II. My appointment got postponed because of Ice storms here in usually sunny Oklahoma. (Yup, Phyl same storm that got Dr. Medberry's wrist). Now I have new molds and just waiting for Transear folks to get with the program. This time we talked and looked at colors. Pink, mine is going to be pink. We think it will be toward the end of Feb. for mine. Anybody heard anything in the last few days?
I am ready for the the next step in this program. I talked to a lady in North Carolina that has one of the first Transears and she said her balance is much improved. Just one small step forward.
Sandy
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Hi, All
Don't remember who was the first on here to talk about getting the TransEar but I do want to say thank you so much! After I heard about it, I contacted my surgeon's office about getting one and, of course, they wanted me to check on getting a BAHA (wonder why a surgeon would want me to get a BAHA??? ). But they did refer me to an audiologist who has ordered a transear for me to try--he had never seen the TransEar before. I am his "guinea pig" and he wants me to try a couple of other things too so he can see which works best. I went in today to try out a CIC but it was malfunctioning, so he had to send it back for a replacement. He said the TransEar should come in in a couple of weeks, so when I go back I can try it out. YAY! I can hardly wait to "hear" again in that ear.
Thanks again!
Patty R.
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Ok, got the scoop on when new Transear II will be up and running. All orders are being held until Feb. 15th. They will start shiping then. First in first out basis. So mine should be here shortly. I am anxious to get on down the road.
Sandy
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Congrats to all who are getting their transear. I hope you get everything worked out.
~Karen
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ixta, I can't figure out that funny guy in the blue bat man costume . Is he smoking out mosquitos? Celebrating something? Quite a fun guy, I think. February 5 update. I get it he's carrying a batman torch. Is that it? He is running faster thatn a speeding bullet. Is that it? :D
Ya, sorry, the image is compressed by the forum requirements for size.
It is the infamous batman trying to get rid of a bomb. I thought it fit my tumor experience well when I was carrying "kuato" around.
Wanting desperately to get rid of it! Get out of the wAAYY!
(http://egghead.ixtabai.com/Animated%20Gifs/bm.gif)
My audiologist is researching the TRansear now, this TRANS EAR II sounds cool, sounds like a movie! ;D
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Way to go! Batman! ;D I called my tumor "The Rude Intruder"
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Mine was "me olde brain booger!" Here's a question for folks with insurance--my insurance oesn't cover hearing aids, but does cover "prosthetic devices." Does the "bionic ear" qualify as a prosthetic device?
Capt Deb 8)
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Deb,
That's how I was trying to get my insurance to cover it. So far they are covering it as a hearing aid. If I fight it and get a lot of information from the doctor I may be able to get them to cover it as a prosthetic device. My sister, who works as a medical coder, seems to think it can be done, but you have to throw a lot of paperwork from your doctor at your insurance company. A pirate like you ought to be able to do it. Arr!
Jean
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Keeping my fingers crossed that ourTransEars arrive this week. Anyone hear (no pun intended) any news?
cheryl
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I haven't heard, but I am listening in here! ;D ;D ;D
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Think I posted that earlier. Talked with Transear people last week. All orders on hold until Feb. 15. Then in order they were received. All future orders will be the Transear II.
Sandy
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I rescheduled my appointment with the audiologist (again) for the 27th of February. Hoping that TransEar will have gotten the parts and sent it to my audiologist by then. I'm waiting to hear if others get theirs.
Jean
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I sure wish you guys would hurry up! I'm waiting to see how everyone does with the upgrades while I find someone locally who can do a transear. I finally got my approval from VR!! YIPPEE I wanna hear like the rest of you! :-*
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I sent an e-mail to Rick Gilbert and hopefully he will get back to me today. I scheduled an appointment for next Wednesday with my audiologist in hopes that the TransEar will arrive by Monday. I have a feeling I will be rescheduling :( again! Continuing to be a patient girl :)
Cheryl
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You know I have more patience now than before the whole AN thing...but I don't know if I have YOUR PATIENCE With transear! LOL Tell Rick I said enough already!
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Matti,
I hope you get your TransEar next Wednesday. That means my chance of getting mine the following Tuesday will be much better.
Jean
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Jean - If it's not in next week, I'm stopping by to pick you up and we'll head to the TransEar factory in Tennessee ;)
hugs,
Cheryl
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Matti, I'll be ready to go. ;D
Jean
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To all who have been waiting for the new TransEar270, thanks for your patience. To the first-in-liners, Cheryl and Jean, save your fuel. Our intent is to ship your TransEar units tomorrow, Friday 15 February, for arrival on Monday. They are actually completed as I type this, but because you are the first to receive the new model we are doing performance testing overnight tonight. I do not expect any quality issues with the new vibration transducer, but I didn't with the field test units weeks earlier either. In micro-electronics manufacturing as in life, "stuff happens." We want to be sure none of our users get any "stuff," and hence the extra bit of testing. I really, really, really want them to work for you, and I will keep my fingers crossed that you are as happy as Boppie seems to be.
Since a number of you have asked, TransEar270 is smaller, a half-shell as opposed to the full-shell transfer unit of earlier models. It uses a soft flexible cable, and in testing, the possibility of feedback has been minimized or eliminated by the combination of the smaller transfer unit and soft cable. Every one of those who participated in field trials has reported better sound quality, but individual results will vary. Again, thank you for being so patient. We hope to be able to ship others in our backlog a few a day over the next two weeks.
Regards,
Rick Gilbert
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Thank you Rick! But can Jean and I still come for a visit :D
Thanks again and I'm excited about my new ear!!
Cheryl
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I can't wait to hear how you guys do!! Just remember to speak into my good ear LOL :P
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ooo, lil ricky be posting on our site :o
Get ready for a flood of Requests from Wa. State.wooohoooo!
Here we come, the mighty one ear-ds!
Sling-shot me one from Tennessee Matti :D
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I am getting a little miffed about not getting my Transear or knowing when it is coming. I have AIED and now in remission. It would really be nice to enjoy a little hearing before the next loss of hearing episode. I have been trying since November to get mine. I was told mine would be shipped on the 15th. It is now the 20th. No word. Sooner or later I will lose all hearing due to the AIED and it would be so nice to have some hearing for as long as I can.
Sandy
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Sandy,
Have you spoken to Rick via telephone? Harrass him to death via phone if need be... your hearing is priority!
Sending you MAJOR huggles.. hang in there! :-*
Phyl
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I have never talked to Rick. Never has been available when I have called. I have emailed. Waiting for an answer. I think I am getting a little crabby about this. I thought this would be a simple process way back in November when I started this. I was told two weeks.
Thanks for the huggles, I always appreciate them.
Sandy
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OK, got an email back from Rick. My Transear is being shipped today he is talking with my doctor this afternoon. He is also shipping someone else's on the ANA site today. So if you are expecting one and haven't heard it is on it's way. After all of this I had better like it.
Crabby Sandy
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Dear Crabby Sandy.
I jump for joy that you FINALLY heard something. Keep on them.. and if that doesn't work.. let me know, the ANA WebPolicewoman will get the perp!
Signed,
PMS Phyl
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My new transEar is sitting at the audiologist's office and my appointment is next Monday at 2:00pm. I have a new audiologist now and am very happy because she seems very supportive and excited to try out this new product. My old audiologist was not a fan of TransEar beacuse it was a little more work for her. Everytime she had to reprogram my TransEar or file it down she made it known that she was not happy. She kept pushing the BAHA, even though I kept telling her I am not a candidate. According to her, the BAHA requires little to none on programming.
Hoping Jean checks in here, I know both of ours were shipped last Friday. Hopefully she will get hers this week ;D
Cheryl
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Matti,
Could it possibly be a matter of MONEY for your old audiologist? Shame on me for even thinking that. My Audiologist had never heard of the Transear before I went and approached me about BAHA. Sorry, can't do that, won't do that. Going to go deaf someday and don't need a usless screw in my head. The more he looked into this the more he is looking foreward to seeing how this is going to go. Now that he knows I have a co-workers daughter and AN husband waiting to see how I do. He says if all works well with me then he will be a doctor of record for the Transear. He has been pretty open minded after direct contact with the Transear people.
It is my neurotologist that is the non-believer. He won't even take the time to read the lit. mailed to him. Of course he is the same one that was so against radiation for the AN.
You go girl. If you don't find a doctor that can work with your wishes take your money and go.
Sandy
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Hi,
I have an appointment to see my audiologist on Tuesday, February 27th. I'm trying not to take a day out of the classroom. wouldn't you know that this Monday we have school! Tuesday is an inservice day. I don't mind missing that. lol
Just sent another email to my audiologist to check and see if she received the TransEar. I know it didn't come in the mail on Monday since it was a holiday.
I'm so excited! It feels like Christmas is coming!!
Jean
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I'm anxiously awaiting the reports! I want to be first in line after all the screaming and hollering ;D
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I talked to my audiologist today, and he is very nervous about transears "30 day" money back guarantee, when most Hearing aids are 60. Why Wouldn't the do the 60?
I guess the 30 day starts @ the time the invoice is done.
He then was concerned with such a small market ( we ol one ears)-if a company would see it as profitable or not, and if later on -if it goes under, where to get repairs or parts...
He recommends trying a regular hearing aid, and BLASTING it loud for bone conduction.
anyone here an audiologist or actually use a hearing aid as a BONE BLASTING PROSTETIC> for balance and directional sound?
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My 30 day guarantee started when I received the TransEar. I was worried that by the time we worked out my programming issues that my time limit would be up, but TransEar was great about extending the time.
Cheryl
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A few points...
The 30 days began when my TransEar was placed in the ear canal.
Turning any hearing aid up to full blast is surely going to make it squeal. A regular hearing aid can't be fitted to SSD. Cros would be the answer but it still sends sound wirelessly to the good ear, not through the bone.
When I phoned my local hearing aid store, he told me he was not allowed to purchase or fit a hearing aid for SSD. I had to go through the ENT and Audiologist and have proof of my deafness.
Read about how the TransEar makes sound on their site.
TransEar wouldn't come this far and go "out of business" or stop making parts. It has a patent for a unique product.
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Bappie,
I get my TransEar tomorrow. I have a question. Where do you buy the batteries? Maybe the new version will last longer than 20 hours.
Matti, can you hear me now?? I am eager to hear how your new TransEar works.
Jean
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Jean,
You can get an eight pack of batteries from your audiologist's office or from any pharmacy. They are standard hearing aid batteries #13 (orange label) Duracell Activair. Every package has an expiration date on it.
You will want a bottle of the Auragel. The little tube full in the trial pack is puny. Take your hand mirror with you tomorrow.
Have a happy day tomorrow! I can't wait to hear from you about how things are going.
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I am new to this Forum and new to wearing a hearing aid. I have read the posts regarding TransEar. A question I have for those of you wearing the TransEar - - - have any of you wearers experienced any kind of pain, like a q-tip stuck too far into the ear? I have single sided deafness for almost two years now. I discovered TransEar shortly after my hearing loss (searching on the net) but decided to wait for the "bugs" to be worked out. Finally, in Nov. 2006 I went to the hearing aid specialist and requested to be fitted with TransEar (this office had never even heard of it). I was very pleased with the results right from the beginning BUT, the hearing aid was too painful. I mean, I could not open and close my mouth without intense pain. They filed it down a little but it still hurt. They said it had to fit deep into the ear for bone conduction ----- I understand that ----- but PAIN??? The TransEar was sent back and I went with a conventional BHE made by ReSound. I am NOT happy with a conventional BTE hearing aid. I want to go back to TransEar and like what I am reading that improvements have been made and that the new TransEar 270 is slightly smaller. I do have small ears and a small ear canal. My first TransEar also protruded way outside of my ear also. I am not vain, but it did look awkward.
Please tell me what to expect? I really want to hear more normal again.
Janet
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Hi Janet,
I am on day 2 with the new TransEar 270, other than some vibrations issues which we are working out, it is very comfortable. I tried the previous model of TransEar, probably the one you had and was having some feedback problems, we did have to file that one down a little because it caused some pain while talking and eating, but was fine after that. Your TransEar should not be causing that kind of pain, sometimes it takes more than a couple of sandings to get it right. I know Boppie had some pain at first, but a filing was all she needed to make it comfortable.
I think you should give the new TransEar a try and this time contact TransEar yourself and tell them of the problem you had last time, they are very helpful ;D
Cheryl
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Cheryl, thank you for the reply. Between my first post and now, I did call TransEar and talked to the sales rep, Larren. She was very helpful and still had my records from my first fitting. I am going to return my ReSound BTE tomorrow and ask to be refitted for the new TransEar 270. Larren suggested that when the mold is being taken, that a bite block should be used. It was not used the first time. I want TransEar to work, and I think it will when it is fitted properly.
Janet
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Hi Janet,
I'm on day one with my TransEar. I had an impression taken without a bite block and one with the bit block. Mine doesn't cause any pain at all. It probably helps that I have little feeling in my ear.
Jean
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Ok, all of you keep posting. I'm learning from all of this. Bite Block? Never heard of that. Have Appointment 3/6 to get my Transear. 2 hour appointment. Does that sound right? I hurt like the d***ens when he took the molds. Tell me it is not going to feel that bad. I will ask for bite block. Anything else I need to know. Gosh, I started this in Nov. Feels like years have gone by.
sandy
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Sandy,
My audiologists tested my hearing in the sound proof box and then took the ear impressions. She told me that it is not uncommon for them to hurt, especially this one because it has to be so deep. TransEar requests two impressions to get the best fit. I had one with a bit block and one without. The pain in the short term will be worth it in the long run. The ear piece will fit better. Mine slips in and out easily.
Good luck at your appointment.
Jean
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Sandy, the bite block is used during taking of the impressions. I have been fitted once and the bite block was not used. The TransEar hurt like heck and even after a little filing, it still hurt. I returned the TransEar and went with the typical BTE ---- not good for SSD. Going back to TransEar and the TransEar rep suggested that when I get refitted, for the Audiologist to use a bite block. Said it may help minimize the pain sometimes associated with the fit (deep in the canal for bone conduction.) Some discomfort may be normal ---- but not as much pain as I experienced, and I am not a woos.
Janet
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Sandy,
Even if your audiologist has never worked with the transEar, 2 hours is more than enough time. Hopefully he/she will acqauint themselves with the program first or have a Transear rep. walk them though it and be ready for you. Rick Gilbert said programming TransEar is very easy to do.
I had mentioned to Jean when she was getting hers, to walk outside with it and test it in a couple of different settings before heading home. The office setting is so quiet that you sometimes don't get a good feel for all the programs.
My audiologist did another impression yesterday and that one really hurt. The TransEar should not feel like that and if it does, they can sand it while you are there. The bite block is used when taking impessions, my audiologist never used one with me either, I've always wondered if that was the reason for some of my problems. I have had remakes for fit and will be having a new one made because my current is not tight enough.
Good luck!
Cheryl
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My audiologist took two ear canal impressions, one with the bite block between my molars and one without. The bite block spreads the mandible (jaw) bones open a little more, and gives a second set of dimensions for the mold design. The two impressions are compared (I think this is done by graphics on a computer screen). The ear model is designed from that. Wouldn't you just love to see this equipment?
When my TransEar was inserted, it felt a little long and wide at two points. By guessing and letting the audiologist sand some off where I felt pain, we arrived at a comfortable fit. This fine tuning has to be done by two patient people, you and the audiologist. I wore my TransEar home the first days and got a sore spot inside there somewhere, it hurt when I talked and chewed. I waited two more days to allow the sore to calm down and then phoned for another visit. I went back for another sanding session and that made the fit perfect...I've been wearing the aid almost 5 months.
Rick Gilbert told me I was his first patient with such a small ear canal that curved so much. How different we are! My ear lobes and outer stuff is regular size.
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Well nuts, Is this ever going to be right? I had 2 molds made. Not with bite block. Now the aid is at the audiologist waiting for me.
When making the molds it was not comfortable. Not really terrible, just uncomfortable. Don't think I could stand it if it feels like that.
My problems is, it needs to be as right as it can be. I started this in November knowing I only had one doctors appointment from then until March 5th. Now it is time for neurosurgeon, dentist, PCP, mamo, and neurotologist, etc. Only a limited time off is allowed at work. I ask for a vacation day last week and you would have thought I wanted to exicute someone's first born child. (I haven't had a day off just for me in over a year). I sometimes think that the doctors do not realize how much stress they put us under by having to take off work so much. I sure hope the Transear works out and I don't have a lot of problems with it. The audiologist I go to is supposed to be one of the best. However, he has messed up a couple of time already. One by not making the molds out of the correct material the first time. However, he is at least open minded about the product now. I feel like a pioneer or something. Everyone I know with single sided deafness is waiting to see how I do before they go. Kind of frustrating. If they would show an interest then the doctor would know this is not just a flash in the pan thing and get a little more training. I don't know what you are paying for your Transear. Mine is supposed to be about $3500 for aid, fittings, visits etc.
Sandy
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Sandy,
On a note that you made... I am curious about the training that TransEar company gives to the audiologist/treating dr's that are doing the fittings and such for TransEar patients... does anyone know? Seems that some are making the molds one way, some another way, etc...
Rick, can you chime in?
Phyl
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I called TransEar today regarding this question and was told that it is helpful, but not mandatory that a bite block be used. It really depends on the audiologists preferred method of impression taking.
Cheryl
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I called TransEar today regarding this question and was told that it is helpful, but not mandatory that a bite block be used. It really depends on the audiologists preferred method of impression taking.
Cheryl
Hey Cheryl :-*
Did you, by chance, ask them about the training they go through for fitting patients with TransEar? I understand it's the audiologists choice (thanks for checking on that!) for impression taking, but curious what kind of training the audiologist goes through to make sure fittings and "tune ups", etc, are alll done right.
xoxo
Phyl
(P.S. Beanie is on the office floor here with me and sends a "woof-arf" to her boyfriend... said you would know what it meant! :-* )
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Training? How could that be when most of the audiologist have not even heard of Transear? It is my impression that they get instructions via the telephone as to fitting, programming and such. As for my audiologist, he was referred to my by the Transear people. I assumed (yes, I know what that means) he had fitted one before. When I made the appointment is was not told he had no knowledge of the Transear. While I was in the office he looked it up on the internet. Later, he consulted by phone. Sometimes I think something gets lost in the translation.
My neurotologist also had never heard of the Transear. He is with a teaching hospital and the audiologist's there refused to even contact the company or try to fit me with one. The neurotologist thinks I do quite well with out anything. Sure, in his office with the door closed, maybe he would like to take me to dinner and see if I can hear. His suggestion was a BAHA. Of course with AIED I will lose all hearing someday anyway so this suggestion fell on deaf ears (a pun intended). I have enough lose screws I don't need an extra one. Transear is a do-it-yourself project for me. Strange how they seem to lose intrest if they don't get to pluck the "little bugger" out of your head. :'(
Sandy
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Well, I turned in my conventional hearing aid today and was fitted again for the TransEar. Per my request, the Audiologist took to impressions, one with the bite block and one without. She will send them both in. When I talked to TransEar yesterday, they did say it will take about two weeks. I am keeping my fingers crossed that the new TransEar will be everything I hope it to be. I will post again when I receive my new hearing aid.
Janet
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Sandy,
I think the price can vary. Mine cost me $2400. That includes the office visits, I believe since that was all the money they asked for. I was checking with another office and that one would have been closer to $3500. They are similar in price to a high end digital hearing aid.
I'm on day 2 with my TransEar. It was interesting in school today. I could hear a little more on the deaf side where before I would have had much difficulty hearing. I'm still playing with the settings to see how they work. I did notice that it vibrates a lot in school because they make so much noise. lol The vibrations are not bothersome though. It was a little easier to hear in the lunchroom. That's a difficult room to hear in even if you have normal hearing. I did make a point to try and keep people on my "bad side" to see if it made a difference. It was easier than in the past. I think it may need time to increase even more.
Jean
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Yes, it does take a while to get used to hearing through the TransEar. You get natural sound, not tin sounding, but there is a switch over going on in the brain. The good side is getting new info from the deaf side. This is not simple and the brain is brilliant in sorting this out. Somehow you start to realize you feel almost normal. Almost ;D
I guess I was lucky. I remember the audiologist saying, "They want a second impression, so we're going to do this". Then she had me put the bite block in. That was the only uncomfortable part for me. My jaw wanted to scream for a few seconds. The impression goo was wierd but not painful.
My audiologist did her homework with Rick Gilbert on the phone before I arrived and between visits one and two. I was her first TransEar. My total turn key was $2800. Tests included.
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Jeanlea, Does the vibrating begin late in the day? I wonder if taking the unit out, drying it with a clean handkerchief, and then reinserting it with new gel might help? ...need a safe clean place and mirror to do this just like contacts.
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Boppie,
The vibrating was going on when I was in the classroom. I think it was because the TransEar works on a turning sounds into vibrations. I'm sure it occured because my students are so noisy. I let them feel the vibrations when I showed them my hearing aid. A good learning experience for them. Then I sanitized it. lol The vibrations aren't bothersome at all. In fact I wear my hearing aid all day and have no problems.
I'm starting to notice a little more difference with it. My good ear is used to picking up so many of the sounds. Now the bad ear is getting a chance to get in on the sound gathering. I think it's awesome to be on the cutting edge of technology with this device. Because of your experience, I was able to share much information with my audiologist. Of course, this is a first for her so she is learning just like me.
Jean
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Jean - According to Rick the unit is not supposed to vibrate in the ear. You should feel some vibration if you are holding it in the palm of your hand, but it should fit tight enough in the ear, where you don't feel it. I would give your audiologist a call. I should be getting my remake in a couple of days.
As far as training, I have seen a manual and it is extremely easy to understand, very detailed and straight forward. It has step by step instructions with photo's and also shows do's and dont's. Each TransEar also arrives with a programming CD and cable which stays with the audiologist. TransEar support will walk the audiologist through any problems via computer or phone and the audiologist can forward the patients settings immediately to TransEar if there are problems.
Janet - I think you will be very happy with it. I did not wear mine today because my vibrating ear and head needed a break, and I noticed a difference in my hearing without it. Last night I watched TV while lying on my good ear and was able to hear fairly well.
I paid $2700 and it included impressions, fittings and all appointments
Cheryl
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It is so good to be able to share info on the TransEar with others. I should clarify one thing-I noticed the vibrating when I was holding it in my hand. I told my students I could feel it in my ear so they would be quieter. LOL It didn't work. There is a big storm coming later tonight and they are all excited about more days off from school.
I noticed that I was able to hear the TV when laying on a pillow on my good ear tonight. I do think it takes time for the brain to adjust. I was able to wear the TransEar all day with no problems.
Jean
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Oh yes, I remember the audiologist showing me the subtle vibrations in her hand. Sometimes, when I am getting ready to apply the AuraGel I can detect a little whistle, probably coming from the fequency in the huge spot light above my vanity.
Jeanlea, How long did you run your aid in the sanitizer at school after the students looked at it? I hate running my sanitizer box for hours. I 'd like to compare notes on this.
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I ate lunch in the cafeteria at school on Grandparents' visiting day. TransEar or not that place is impossible to hear conversation. I think most adults use lip reading in there. ;D You see, kids have us in training for old age! :D
I taught the private Episcopal school. Everybody brownbagged and we ate in the classrooms. How civilized is that?
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Boppie - I was curious about running the santizer for such a long time as well. How much time do you get out of the brick? With my first TransEar, I was able to get 5 weeks before replacing.
cheryl
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I ran it 8 hours about 3 times a week for two months before replacing the brick which had turned very light pink. My wearing times were between 2 and 6 hours a day three times a week.
Now I am up to eight hours a day wearing time a couple of times a week. So I might go through a brick faster. Besides the rains and humidity are rising in South Texas. I imagine that by May (high heat and humidty) I will be lucky to get a month out of a brick.
My audiologist said most hearing air wearers would be wise to use a Dry and Store unit, but they don't.
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I learn a great deal by reading this forum, so thanks to all for helping me with your personal insights. I want to comment on a few of topics mentioned in this now long string.
Ear impressions: Experience thus far suggests that an open mouth impression will yield better results. Having said that, ears canals are SO different, and the action of the temporal-mandibular joint can vary so much from person to person, that I don't believe TransEar will ever get out of the shell remake business. It is part of the process. Bottom line: an open mouth impression will not guarantee a perfect fit, because the silicone mixture can vary in viscosity, and impression-taking skills will also vary - but it makes a better starting point.
Pain: a successful fit should not cause pain. As Boppie has said, sometimes it takes a few adjustments to get it right, and I know this can get inconvenient for many users. The reason it takes some work to get it right for you is that the part of the ear canal where TransEar does its work is not flexible. The skin over the bony portion of the ear canal is about 0.2mm thick, and it is highly vascular and extremely sensitive. Jaw movement from taking, eating, etc. can act like a plunger in some people, causing irritation. So, we recommend a follow-up visit in a week. While the outer ear has "give," the approximate 3/8" where TransEar does its work has none. The good news is since there is only 0.2mm of skin that can be painful, removal of 0.2mm of TransEar is all it takes. One just has to find the spots, and as Boppie has stated so well, finding them requires lots of cooperation between you and the fitter. Keep in mind that the typical audiologist or hearing aid fitter almost never deals with that area, so they must learn this as well.
"Eureka" moments: Few TransEar users will experience an emotional "Eureka" moment on the first fitting. The brain is a marvelous thing, but it can take a while for it to adjust, just as it did when it first had to compensate for the loss of hearing. That is why we have trial periods. Keep yourself open to new experiences, but remember that they will sometimes be there, but subtle.
Dry & Store use: 99.9% of the bugs that can live on the transfer unit are zapped during the first three minutes if the canal portion is aimed up towards the germicidal bulb. If bug-zapping is all you need, such as in a classroom, you can remove TransEar when the blue light goes out. Getting into the habit of using Dry & Store every night is a good one, as you also want to keep TransEar's processor and microphone dry - especially with summer heat coming.
If you would like a copy of the TransEar Fitting Guide, let me know off list. It is written for the audiologist, but comments here have me ready to edit one for the recipient too. In fact I'll do it today! Look for it on the TransEar web site.
Thanks,
Rick Gilbert
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Thank you Rick! I think adding the fiiting guide to your website is a great idea. It gives us a better understanding of what to expect and to look for during our fitting and programming appointments.
Thanks,
Cheryl
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Thank you, Rick. I am a firm believer that knowledge is power! Had I add more information on what to expect, I probably would not have given up the first time. The TransEar is not only new to the end user, but also a new experience for most Audiologists. There is a learning curve for everyone.
Again, thanks to you. AND thanks to this Forum.
Janet
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I was wondering if you can use your cell phone with the transear? Also is their any buzzing that comes form the aid? In another thread the people talked about Starkey Destiny verse Transear and said that transear buzzed and with the Starkey brand you could talk on the phone with it. I have an appointment with my ENT next week to discuss hearing aids and what toi go with. I think he only knows about the Cross type so I have been gathering info for him to look at. He is a personal friend so I hope to convince him to take a good look at the info.
one more question What are the improvements of the Transear II? Does the Battery last longer then the first one and is their a trade-in on the older version to upgrade to the new ones? for future thought...
Thanks for all the info so far.
Greg Brown
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I tried and can hear the TV with a TransEar side but haven't the need to use the phone on that side. I'd rather use the phone on my hearing ear side. One would have to place the cell or hand phone receiver near the microphone (BTE) part. I would try this in an emergency.
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Greg:
Sure, one can use TransEar with a cell phone. But if you have one good ear, that's the one you should use. You will not get as much gain from any aided side, including TransEar, and that means speech discrimination will suffer. This is, of course, a problem with many cell phones for folks with normal hearing! I don't know what is meant by TransEar buzzing. It doesn't buzz. Perhaps the audiologist quoted had experienced a very early model - one made by our previous licensee - or a defective oscillator??
The Starkey hearing aid you mentioned is simply a very high-powered air conduction hearing aid that produces so much sound pressure that it vibrates the bone. At that point it acts just like TransEar or BAHA. Hearing aids have been used that way since the late '80s, and the industry usually refers to them as transcranial-CROS instruments, or T-CROS. What is new about the Destiny is that Starkey claims to have a more efficient feedback management capability than past models, as feedback is a huge problem when you are cranking up air conduction aids to such high volume levels. I'll leave the discussion of physics for someone else, but we maintain that directly vibrating the skull with a vibrator (TransEar, BAHA, and headbands) is a lot more efficient than vibrating the skull with sound pressure.
Re: TransEar 270, it is smaller and less visible, which means we can fit people with small ears (like Matti), the transducer sits deeper in the ear, and users report that speech sounds are more clear. It uses new a soft flexible wire, but that wire can also be used by current model users as well. Will battery life be better? Yes, we think so, because the amplifier that drives the vibrator is more efficient - not better, just more efficient power-wise. We have also stopped using the feedback cancellation features in both current processors, because any TransEar feedback occurs out of the range of such circuits. Experts tell us that up to 40% of a digital hearing instrument's battery drain is caused by the feedback cancellation feature. So for both current and TransEar270 users, battery life should be enhanced by turning it off. (It is already off on TransEar270.)
There will be an upgrade path for those users who want the smaller transfer unit, but we have not yet worked out the cost. It will be several weeks before this is available, as the transducers must be specially made (they are not identical to those in TransEar270). We will alert all hearing professionals who have fit TransEar by email or snail mail when these issues are defined.
Probably more than you wanted to know, but there you have it....
Rick
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I've nearly finished three days with my new TransEar and the battery is still going strong. When I block my good ear I can hear voices very well through the TransEar. I'm also finding that I don't turn my head as much when talking to people. So far, so good.
Jean
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thanks boppie and Rick for your postings. This is great infomation to get and thanks for answering my questions for me.
Greg Brown
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Jean - Glad to hear it is going well ;D Isn't it nice not to have to turn your head as much.
I wore mine to a meeting today and placed myself in the center of the room, where normally I would sit dead ear against the wall. It was a noisy meeting and I was not struggling to hear those seated close to me. Once the vibration is corrected, I know things will continue to improve.
Cheryl
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Howdy,
How long after surgery were you folks with the Transear able to be fitted?
Dan
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Hi Dan,
I was fitted for my TransEar 16 months after surgery. It took me that long to learn about it, and then get an appointment. There isn't anything special that you have to wait for after surgery. As soon as you are well enough to go to the audiologist you can get fitted I believe. Others can chime in with their opinions.
Jean
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My surgeon offered a BAHA at the two month surgery checkup. I turned it down because I wanted no more surgery if I could avoid it. Most people who do opt for BAHA have it functioning by the third month after an uncomplicated surgery. So I assume it is safe to use a hearing aid by at least 3 months out.
I started using the TransEar before my first year checkup.
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Happy news to report with my TransEar. For the first time in almost 9 years, I was able to put the phone up to my dead ear and HEAR!!!!!! WOW!!!!! I don't think I would be able to carry on a long conversation because of the way I have to hold the phone (TransEar microphone sits behind the ear), but just being able to hear a "hello" after all these years was pretty amazing.
Cheryl
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Boppie,
I'm only a couple of weeks past my trans lab. I'm still putting drops in my ear and all. I figured there would have to be a certain amount of healing to have been accomplished before a hearing device like the Transear could be fitted.
Dan
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Wow all this is amazing to read. I am now going to look into it again as I get closer to wanting one! Thanks Cheryl, Boppie and Jeanlea to keep us all informed on progress!
Ciao, Lorenzo
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I tried something new with my TransEar today. When I first put it on the battery was beeping. It didn't seem to be working so I guess that meant I needed a new battery. Put the new in and it's fine. Got 3 days out of the first battery of wearing it all day.
Next I decided to watch a video on my computer. My son gave me his headphones. Started out fine, but then I had no sound. He told me one side didn't always work. Well, that was my hearing side. I remember Cheryl saying the the microphone is behind the ear so I put the headphone more behind the ear and plugged my good ear and then I could hear sounds!! It was clear enough for me to understand what people were saying!
Jean
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Jean I'm so excited for you! I'm hoping to be next!
I say get your son a new set of headphones LOL
Rick...if you have TMJ will that affect how the transear should be fitted or how it works?
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BattyP - I think you will be very happy with it ;D
Jean - I did the headphones tonight as well and heard the music clearly. When I am listening to music and plugging my good ear with my finger, I can hear a slight delay in the music coming from the bad ear, it's almost a beat behind. I have been wearing mine 8 to 10 hours per day and had to change the battery this morning as well.
Cheryl
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Michelle, send Rick a personal and you will get a response about the TMJ. Or address your question to TransEarExpert
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This is so exciting. I bet Transear could sell a bunch if they went to Philly.
Good luck to all of our Guinea Pigs and thanks for all of the info.
Kathy
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Most in-the-ear hearing aids - and that includes TransEar's transfer unit - are affected by the temporal-mandibular joint, because movement can change the shape of the ear canal. As with most things anatomical, each of us has our own characteristics, and some have a very small joint while others have a whopper. When we receive an ear impression for TransEar, we can easily see the size of the TMJ, but large joints will rarely affect our ability to fit the new smaller TransEar270 that a few members have. Those with TMD, a disorder that allows for irregular movement of the joint, are not necessarily restricted from using TransEar, but there is an added fear that the irregular movement might occlude the ear canal. With the transfer unit in the ear, that might cause pain. We do not know if a TMD sufferer is using our product, so I am not willing to make a categorical statement of use, except to say that the TMD sufferer will need to work extra closely with the dispensing professional on getting the proper fit, one that includes any irregular sizing of the ear canal.
I am trying to get to the Philly symposium in July, with an eye to getting the medical profession up-to-speed on TransEar quicker. Meeting some forum members, with or without TransEar, would be an added treat.
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Ok,
Transear tomorrow. Hope the fact he did not take molds using a bite block does not hamper anything. I did go to my neurosurgeon today and she confirmed I do have excellent bone conduction hearing. She said it is something that not everyone has to the same degree. She is so interested in how the transear works. She is almost as excited as I am. Wish the neurotologist was less of a skeptic.
By the way "Ivan the Terrible Tumor" has a very large area of necrosis. :D Isn't that a lovely word?
Will post tomorrow and tell you how my new ear is doing.
Sandy
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Congrats on the beginning of Ivan's demise okiesandy!!
And, as always, this thread gets my attention. I can't wait to hear all about your new ear!!
Kathy
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Sandy, congrats on your tumor dying. Hope all goes well with your TransEar. I'm finding mine getting better each day.
Jean
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I am so happy to be reading the posts and good news from you about your new TransEars. I get to say "I told you so!" ;)
And I am scheduling an appointment with my audiologist to get the program tweaked a bit on my TransEar I (2006).
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Sandy, fabulous news regarding Ivan!!! I will be anxiously awaiting your TransEar update, I am very excited for you ;D
hugs,
Cheryl
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Thanks for all good wishes. I am so excited. I really do well with my one sided hearing. I have almost forgotten what it is like to be able to hear on my left side. Gets really intresting at the drive through bank and ordering at eating places. I just pretent it is their speakers, drives them nuts. I work with 180 co-dependent Realtors. They insist on talking to my deaf ear. Sometimes it is better that I don't hear.
Gosh, I hope they got the fitting right. So much excitement in two days. I went for my 1 year MRI in Jan. They told me the AN was smaller. It wasn't until yesterday with the neurosurgeon that I knew just how much of it was showing necrosis. Just about 1/3 of it. It is getting long and skinny look. She had a really big smile on her face and was as excited as I was. She is also very interested in the Trasear. Thinks it should help some with the balance. Now to the neuro-eye guy and more help with balance. She said all AN people need to see neuro-eye doctor at some point. Now why hasn't someone told me this before?
Sandy
A special thanks to our Transear leader Boopie. Did you always want to be a pioneer? ;)
Sandy
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*jumps up and down, doing the happy dance for Sandy!*
heck ya!!!!!!! :D
xoxo
Phyl
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This is no pun...I always wished I had become a brain surgeon. Really! But go figure! I got to be a Grandma instead. By getting hearing aids we are showing others how to face our problems and move on. Pat yourselves on the back.
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This is a really important thread. SSD sucks. I have my disability hearing 2 weeks from tomorrow. If all goes well, I'm heading straight to the audiologist, not passing go, not collecting $200, and ordering the dang thang. Yeah Boy! :o
Capt Deb 8)
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Sail on Cap'n. Get off these shoals! Get pink, too!
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Question,
I got my Transear yesterday. Audiologist was impressed with the workmanship. Fits well and is comfortable. First couple of times I chewed it was a little ouchy. Now I can't feel it at all.
On to the big question. When the doctor plugged my good ear I could barely hear him talk. The hearing level is about 1/3 of the loudness of my hearing ear. I don't mind the difference in how the sound comes through "tin man" is OK and I expected it. My concern is the volume I really still hear only out of my only hearing ear. If I turn the sound up to 3 then it vibrates at high pitched noises. Suggestions any one?
I don't have problems getting it in or our and the fit seems firm when I try to take it out. Should I talk to Transear about this? Or will it improve? At this point I can't she how it could help me. My husband whispered in my ear this morning and I can tell there is a sound, not what the words are. I can plug the ear and hear the radio if I turn it from 13 to 21. Shrill little children make it go crazy. Ok all of you who have gone before me chime in here, I am depending on you.
Sandy
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Sandy - According to Rick you should not feel the TransEar 270 vibrate. Hopefully he will pop in here and reply to your post. The vibration is why I am getting a remake. I only hear sounds on volume 3 1/2 to 4, but with that I get alot of vibration and more so with high pitched sound. When the phone rings or with the tone/pitch of certain voices, the TransEar vibrates like crazy. With mine, we are thinking that the processor is being over driven, so a tighter fit should solve the problem. I will get my new one some time this week.
Mine is very comfortable, I acutally forget I have it in. It sounds like you and I both only hear at the higher volume levels. If I were you I would call TransEar and talk with them. Since my audiologist was new to the device, she couldn't help much, but TransEar was able to step in and help her out.
Cheryl
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I am going to email Rick right now.
I can barely hear at level 4 and then not the same volume as my hearing ear. at anything past 2 1/2 it vibrates like crazy. Back to the drawing board
Sandy
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I just got a message from Rick alias TranEarXpert, and he is about a 2 hr drive from me in Tenessee. He says I can get fitted by Dr Shumaier the inventor, himself!!! ;D ;D Yowee-zowee, I just about fell offa my chair! I can even see how they are made and stuff. Maybe the good doc is an art lover and wantsta do a swap! I'm waiting to hear from Rick about how I can get an appt as soon as I get home. What an amazing resource this forum is. I've been chatting with Karen, who has lived my dream of circumnavigating by sail! :o
Capt Deb 8)
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How lucky for you Cap'n Deb. We'll want a full report when you return. Sounds exciting. Good luck to you.
Jean
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Sandy, Did the audiologist use the software to check the programs on your unit? When I turn my TransEar to #3 I can expect to get about 1/3 the volume of the good side. I believe the summation of the total sound in both sides is how the aid benefits the patient. I would not expect the hearing aid to operate as a stand alone sound source. Nor will it sound as loud as your good ear when the good side is plugged.
As for the vibrating, I think this needs to be addressed especially if the vibrations occur at the middle volume settings. When the unit is turned to full volume I would expect distortion so one wouldn't get comfortable sound at that level. TransEar should be able to answer your questions. Every ear canal anatomy is unique and fitting takes some tryouts.
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alright alright, I really need to "hear" about the real test.
headphones on, blast the heavy metal music,
does one hear "STEREO"?
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would the TransEar warranty cover heavy metal blasting of the unit?
:)
Lorenzo
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Who has a money tree? :D
No stereo, just hearing the stuff that is directled at the bad side if there are two speakers.
And Okay guys, get your own TransEar and decide if you would like to "blast" it. :o
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Boppie,
I just think there is something wrong with the unit or programming. I get vibration at 2 1/2 and sometimes even at 2. There is no sound coming to me at 2 or even 2 1/2. Last night I went to get out of the car and it started shreeking like a banshee. The unit has to be on 3 to hear even the faintest sounds with ear plugged. I can plug my ear with my finger and turn the radio up to 21 or 22 volume (usual is 13) and hear some words. I can also do the same thing without the aid and hear the same thing. Can't block out all sound coming to the good ear with a finger.
I talked to Rick yesterday. He said to keep wearing it. I did and as the day went on it vibrated more and more. I finially had to take it out. Today my ear is very sore. The unit itself is very comfortable. The vibrating is not. I have a appointment Monday and will see what we can do then. Rick is going to contact my audiologist and go over the settings. I honestly think it is more than that because of the vibration and squealing sound. Time will tell. I am sure it will work out sooner or later.
Sandy
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Ixta - I've had SSD for almost 9 years, I forgot what stereo sounds and feels like :(
Sandy - I start to feel the vibration at 2 1/2, but do not hear sound at that level, I only get benefit at 3 1/2 to 4, but then my head and ear are vibrating like crazy. I am glad you are seeing your audiologist on Monday, this could all be just a programming issue. I know on Day one of TransEar 270 I had to be seen twice by my audiologist because of the vibration and she was able to tone it down some. When I had my first TransEar back in November, it took my brain a few days to process the new info. I was ready to give up and then sound just magically appeared.
Keeping my fingers crossed that it all works out for us.
Cheryl
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I think we need to rename this thread the transear club!
I want to join!!!
Hopefully tomorrow I'll remember to call the hearing people vr gave me to call.
Deb good luck on your hearing. Let us know how it goes. I'll be heading that way sometime in my lifetime LOL I'm thinking by the time they finally schedule it I might be done with school LOL
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ya batty, I'm a little jealous hearin about this secret club, like peer pressure or something, "smokin behind the school portables" "everybodys doin it" in highschool. haha
ya, I am a noob one ear so I still get melancholy when i listen to some good tunes, and think, CRAP they are not too good anymore, with stereo I was at least able to let the music envelope me. Now it just bounces off my forehead, lets hope the transear at least gives the 360 degree of "where tf is that sound coming from",
hey you trannies!, ;D I mean trans ear people, can you close your eyes and have someone make sound around you and you can turn towards the sound>?
the dreaded, WHERE THE HELL IS THE PHONE@!! test... :D
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Sandy, Does the squealing coincide with a certain head position? like leaning forward or bending down or high frequency instruments, certain speakers?? I just thought some tests might give you more feedback for your next session about adjustments. I remember some vibration sensations for several wearings at first. I also had one very sore pink spot on my outer ear lobe that hurt with a stinging feeling. I thought it was vibrations. Can you or your husband see any red spots on the ear skin?
Are you using auragel to insert?
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Cheryl and Boppie,
Had to leave the TE at home today. Yes, the high pitched whne is worse when I bend or around one computer. Also, last night on the drive home I passed a hospital and screeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeech. This does not vibrate just a little it is something others can hear and see. Actually makes me jump at times. If it turn it up to 2 1/2 it will vibrate with children, when someone coughs or laughs. At 2 I hear nothing if I plug my ear. Nothing at a 2 1/2 either. If I can keep it from vibrating I can hear some things at 3. Never a 4 the thing would jump out of my ear.
I do use the lubricant and don't have a problem putting it in. I am going to try it again tomorrow and see how it goes. My ear is just sore and I don't want a problem so just left it at home so I would not be tempted. When it is in it feels fine, don't even know it is there. It is just the vibrating I think. I am sure I will get this worked out as long as the audiologist and the Transear people don't give up.
Cheryl, are you getting any benefit from this at all? Can you notice any difference in hearing? The strange thing with me is when I do plug my good ear and can hear something with the Transear it does sound like it is coming from the left ear and not the right. I am deaf in the left ear. I am making my husband sit on my left and talk to me. Still can't hear him, only if he gets too loud or makes a strange noise or laughs It is a split second until the vibration starts. Children drive me crazy. They laugh, shreek or do things children do and the vibration is crazy. My appointment is Monday and we shall see if anything changes. I am not ready to give up yet. I keep thinking about when the neurosurgeon said I had remarkable bone conduction. That keeps me going.
Thanks to all of the transear club for your input. If it had not have been for you this thing would be back in the doctors office by now. It is going to work...it is going to work....it is going to work. Power of positive thinking.
Sandy
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It sounds like your "remarkable bone conduction" and something in your unit are working together to overdrive your bones. Wow, Rick Gilbert might be looking at another kind of uniquensss in you, Sandy!
My unit vibrates very softly when I have it in my finger tips. I use 2 and a half setting, sometimes 3.
I am sure you are going to love the results when the fitting stage is finished.
I have a suggestion: Could you wear it around for several days on the lowest setting you can tolerate and let the ear bones and your brain adjust slower?
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Sandy, what do you mean by this "If I can keep it from vibrating I can hear some things at 3"? How do you keep it from vibrating?
If you have to push on it (toward the inside) I'd think the fit is off somewhere. At first I had some sore spots inside against the jaw bone. Some smoothing took care of that. I made a wild guess that the sore was down low against the front suface that bumped the jaw bone. After the sanding, it stopped burning and hurting.
I'd say the "burning" was vibration when I look back on it. It is amazing what a half millimeter can mean for comfort.
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Boppie,
No problem with discomfort. It is quite comfortable.
When someone speaks it vibrates. However, if I can find a sound that won't cause the vibration I can hear very faint sounds. I wear the aid everyday except for the one day that my ear was sore from the fibration. As time goes by the vibration seems a little less. Unfortunately the sounds I do hear are less also. I go to the audiologist today and maybe this will be resolved.
When I am on the phone with my good ear the Transear sometimes vibrates and then I can't hear with the good ear either. Very strange.
Rick was supposed to talk with the audiologist and find out what my settings are and make some suggestions. I haven't given up yet.
Thanks,
Sandy
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Got a call from Audiolgist office today. After confering with Rick they decided it needs to go back for a check up. I will turn it in this afternoon. Sooner or later we will get this solved.
Sandy
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Hope you get it worked out soon, Sandy.
I was sitting in the living room tonight watching Tv with my family and did not have my TransEar on because I had just finished running. I actually noticed "the deafness" in my bad ear. Guess I am getting used to that extra bit of sound I get with the TransEar. Also, I'm on day 5 with my new Radio Shack battery.
Jean
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Today was a real test for how well my TransEar works. I forgot to put it in before I left for school. Well, I did notice the difference. I just couldn't hear quite as much. I must be getting used to the TransEar. I will be sure to remember it tomorrow.
Jean
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I had my audiologist meeting today to talk about different options for my hearing loss. She has been in contact with Transear and will get more information from them now that we have done another hearing exam. The exam shows the same results for my better ear as before but it is different then most in which I hear the higher pitches but have a problem with the low ones (the Transear works best when you have higher pitch loss then lower pitch loss). She said she will give the results to the Transear people to see if my hearing will benefit from their aid or not. She was very helpful and informed about the different choices that might be available to me. I will get a list of my choices after she does some more research and present them to me at my ENT meeting next Tuesday.
Options we talked about today:
Transear with only the dead ear with aid in it. May not or will not hear low tones though.
Hearing aid for the better ear to allow me to hear better then I already do but no hearing from left side.
Cros system to bring hearing from my left side to my right side but something in both ears then. not sure about the high and low pitch thing with this option?
Not sure what I want to go with yet but will get the information to compare next week. My heart says that I would like to only have an aid on my left side (dead side) and then hear again from that side so I don't have to continue to turn my head to hear things or people on my good side but maybe that will not be an option for me. I also found out today that both of my ear canals were smaller so that might weight heavy on my options as well. Either way that I have to go I will make it work for the better.
Sorry about this being so long but it has help in putting it in a written format instead of just keeping it in my head. :-\
Thanks for listening and will keep you posted on my options as I get them.
Greg Brown
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me and my audiologist are going to order the transear and a rolls royce hearing aide (LOUD) to see which is better, both for bone conduction.
the trans only gives you 30 days while the hearing aid gives you 60-90 days trial period.
We need to make it work qwik. he wasnt too happy that transear is only 30 days., unlike everyother aid in the world..
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I was a little worried about the 30 day thing with Transear. I have a email from Rick. He says the 30 days start when you are satisfied with the fit and the hearing gain. Not when you receive the aid.
Sandy
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I was advised to call transear and get that in writing...calling now..
they state "they do",
and when I said could "I get that in writing",
They asked me if I could tell my audiologist to tell them to get it in writing. ???
Blue Cross has verified though they would cover it.
It is considered a prostesis, not Durable Medical Equipment.
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How did you get Blue Cross to cover it as a prosthesis? I'm still waiting to be reimbursed, but they told my audiologist that they would cover it as a hearing aid. They only pay $1541 for a hearing aid, which left me with the balance to pay.
Jean
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Hello everyone!! I am new to your forum. My daughter was diagnosed at birth with single sided deafness due to a malformed cochlea, she is now 4 yaers old. Have you heard of anyone so young being fitted with the Transear? I think it sounds like a wonderful devise, but our audiologist said she is too young for it. And recomended the BAJA implant or a high powered aid. I am not for anything surgical at this time, and am not sure of the high powered hearing aid. If anyone has any information I would GREATLY appreciate the help. THANK YOU!!!!
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I have blue cross and tried to get them to cover my TransEar as a prosthesis, but they said it is only covered under hearing devices. I even had letters from my surgeons explaining the reason for my hearing loss and still no luck.
I may have to reinvestigate, thanks for the info ixta!
Cheryl
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hi blinc - I believe it can be used on young children, but not infants. It all depends on the size of the ear canal, as the Transear needs to sit deeper in the canal. The only way to be sure is to have an impression taken and sent to TransEar to see if your daughter would be a candidate. Check out their website or call them for more info, they are very helpful.
Take care,
Cheryl
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They are very helpful, I enquired with them but unfortunately they don't have a set up in Australia yet. Shame coz a standard hearing aid won't work with me.
Laz
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IXTA:
TransEar270, our latest model, has a 45 day trial period, and if your state law mandates a longer period, we of course honor that. The intent of any trial period is to ensure that you have enough time to fairly evaluate what it does for your hearing. Assuming a comfortable fit and no other issues, 45 days should be plenty, and comments on this forum tend to support that. On the other hand, if a remake or modification must be made to your TransEar, the trial clock essentially starts over again. We try to be fair and flexible, and I don't believe we have failed at that yet. If we have, I'd like to know. The last thing anyone trying TransEar should worry about is the length of our trial period.
Rick Gilbert
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Thanks for the clarification Trans,
My audiologist wants it clarified, does the 45 day countdown start @ invoice, or when I actually get it fitted or comfortable with the fitting...because since it is soo deep in the canal, there are fitting problems, etc.
Just want to clarify if the 45 day starts at invoice.
Gracias!
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ixta:
It starts at invoice unless we are advised of any delays in scheduling the person to be fitted. Please do not anticipate "fitting problems." Yes, TransEar fits deeply in the canal, and yes, minor modifications through light sanding are usually required to ensure day-long comfort for most users (sometimes more than once). But this is not some torture chamber exercise. Most of the members of this forum - at least those I am personally familiar with - who have required remakes needed them because the transfer unit was not tight enough and they weren't receiving the desired gain, not the other way around. If you will email me privately I'll send you the complete fitting guide that we provide to the audiologist, and you can follow step by step what is going to be required.
As I said previously, the trial period is not something to get worked up over. You should instead look forward to regaining some sense of hearing from your dead side, and everything else will fall into place. If you are a good candidate for TransEar, you will know so rather soon after you are fitted, I think, and if the experience is "two-thumbs-up," it will only get better over time.
Regards,
Rick Gilbert
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sounds good, ya the fitting guide would be cool, The audiologist did open bite and closed molds.
I guess its hard plastic.
Said my build up in my ea canal is from diving in cold water.. ???
wer'e trying for something else for now.
my current insurance was able to get it as a prosthetic, but now I am getting a new job and who knows what the new coverage will say,
Have to fill out one of those "pre existing condition" things I m sure.
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Well folks, I got my TransEar today...Kinda wild.
I'm just getting used to settings and programs right now. It seems the longer it is in my ear the better it seems to work.
I was able to talk on the phone using my good ear and still hear everything in the background with my TransEar.
My own voice sounds as it used to (to me) as well.
Thanks for everyone's advice.
Now, let's see if I get used to my new bi focals....
Dan ;D
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Hey Dan, happy to hear that you got your TransEar today. It does help with the hearing. New bifocals too? What a treat for your senses. lol
Jean
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I'm finding that I am adapting to the TransEar quicker than the bi-focals. I wanted to get regular glasses and then a pair of reading glasses...My wife talked me out of it.
If I don't get used to the bi-focals in a week or two...then I think it's back to square one.
Dan
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How did you get Blue Cross to cover it as a prosthesis? ....
Jean
I had an amputation of the vestibular auditory nerve.
That effects balance.
Thats how it was written up in the "medical necessity letter".
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well Starkey no workey, have the thing turned up max, and all it sounds like is a mouse being tortured to everybody in the room.
My audiologist thought it would operate on the premise of bone conduction, but no go, he wanted to try the starkey because the mold does not go As deep as the Transear.
I have bone growths in my canal that make a deep mold painful, BUT I am about to try a mold for the transear anyway to see if the pain is really that unbearable.
Has anyone here ruled out the transear because of the PAIN with it being so deep in the canal?
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Newbie here,
Question for all you pros out there.
I have profound hearing loss in one ear. High frequencies (above 2500 Hz) are dead. From 1,500 to 2,500 very bad.
Low frequencies are fine.
Tried the BAHA test band and I was very impressed, but I am not game for surgery.
I am debating between trying a transear and trying a Widex Inteo with Audibility Extender.
My 1st concern is that the transear will occlude what usable low frequency hearing I do have in the bad ear.
Anyone's input is appreciated. Does the transear work better for people with complete deafness in one ear? The transear website mentions venting.
My 2nd concern is related to the audibility extender. Tests seem to indicated that people prefer NOT to use it for speech recognition, and that is the main reason I am interested in a hearing aid. On the plus side, this aid appears to be more comfortable in everyday wear.
Anyone tried the audibility extender and transear and can compare?
Anyone who has made the transition (from traditional hearing aid to transear) care to comment on the differences?
Thanks in advance.
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Dave I have SSD and an earlier TransEar that still has the audibility extender turn on (I think that is what it is) I heard that this feature was turned off for the newest TransEar. Also, I have high frequency loss in my remaining ear. I do fine with my TransEar as is. That is as much I can answer from your questions. TransEar can answer your questions best since their data will have records and facts about other users.
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On a recent trip to the US, I went to see an audiologist about TransEar. I had the earmold made and unfortunately the TransEar was not received by my audiologist during my visit. She did the programming according to my hearing test - and to the other hearing aid I'm trying out (Widex) and sent me the TransEar via post, which I received yesterday. However, I'm having real difficulty fitting TransEar. I'm finding it so painful!! Since TransEar is not offered in the UK, I can't just go see any audiologist and get it fitted. Just wondering if those of you who have one did any of your own modifications to make it fit. I really want to give it a go, but only so much I can take with trying to get it to fit properly.
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mhoyland,
Welcome to the TransEar club. I'll give you what little advice I can. The first time I put in the TransEar I put auragel on the earpiece and put it in. I had a little bit of trouble doing it by myself. The audiologist told me to pull down on my earlobe. That gives it a little more room to go in.
If you still have trouble I think you would still be able to get help from anyone that does hearing aids. It's not that much different in how you put it in. It's just deeper and then it works through bone conduction.
Good luck to you.
Jean
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Jean, Does your TransEar wired unit fit in behind your ear? I have the short wire and I am thinking of getting the medium one. The short wire makes my BTE unit sit on top of my ear. How about yours?
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Boppie:
The correct wire length allows the microphone opening to point straight ahead - neither too far behind the ear nor too far forward. While the fitting professional has a template provided by our firm, it is not an exact science due to the variations in the depth of the concha bowl. If your processor is visible above the ear, by all means exchange it!
Rick
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Exactly where should it sit? Mine is more near the bottom of the ear.
Sandy
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The microphone is on the hearing aid part, immediately behind where the connector wire joins the BTE. It should sit on the top of the ear and point (approximately) straight ahead so that it efficiently picks up input similar to how the normal ear performs.
Rick
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Rick,
When I get mine back I am going to check out where the thing sits. Could this be some of my problem with the low quality of hearing I got with it? I was in Kansas City with my son and had the one in before the last one. He was sitting behind me and has a deep voice. I could hear him so well it actually made me jump. More to ponder I guess. I may have to make that trip to Knoxville yet. Thanks!!
Sandy
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Boppie,
My TransEar sits behind my ear. The top of it is just below the top of my ear. I think that's where it's supposed to be. I got the "small" size because I have tiny ears. I remember that my audiologist measured it.
I feel lucky that mine fits so well. I've never had to do anything to it since the day I got it. It came fitting perfectly.
Jean
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Exactly WHAT is aTransear? I haven't hear of this before. And what price am I looking at? Does it help with balance problems and tinnitus? Where can I get one....if it works. :)
Pixie
Radiosurgery 1999
4900cGy - 20 fractions
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TransEAr is a bone conduction hearing aid worn inside the deaf ear canal. It transfers sound wirelessly through the skull bones to the good side cochlea. No it doesn't change balance, nor does it eliminate tinnitus. You can learn all about TransEar and how to get one from the TransEar web site. TransEar.com
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Exactly WHAT is aTransear? I haven't hear of this before. And what price am I looking at? Does it help with balance problems and tinnitus? Where can I get one....if it works. :)
Pixie
Radiosurgery 1999
4900cGy - 20 fractions
3200 dollars.
Make sure it works for your lifestyle.
I was able to get insurance to code it as a hearing prosthetic for balance and location. The underwriters were told they could spend 60 grand on a BAHA implant or try the transear. Some people have luck getting it some dont. I jumped on it right after surgery and had a CM go through the process of getting it approved.
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Update on my TransEar 1. I had the newer fexible wire installed on my unit which upgrades it for me. I am very pleased to be able to get better bone contact too. The former rigid wire was twisting the ear mold a bit. Not many people on this forum will know about the rigid wire. Most users have the TransEar 2.
Just write me if you do have the rigid wire.
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After being without my TransEar for a week, I can fully appreciate just what it does for me. I felt deaf in my deaf ear and I don't really feel that way when I'm wearing it. The gain is small, but it is noticeable. I feel more "normal" when I'm wearing it.
My wire was loosing its connection. That's why I was without it. I noticed the new wire looks a little different than my old one. It looks like it is sturdier and should last longer. It's also a bit shorter so it doesn't have to curl into a loop when I wear it. There must have been a second edition of flexible wires. Guess it's true. You don't know what you've got til it's gone. :-)
Jean
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My TransEar is supposed to arrive next week. I hope I will be able to hear and do as well as others on this board have done with it.
One question I have is how it works....the part behind your ear since I wear glasses? My audiologist didn't say anything about it when I saw her for the measurements and she knows I wear glasses so I guess it will not be a problem.
Jean in Mississippi
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The TransEar works well with glasses. I wear my sunglasses all the time. The sunglasses are on the part where the wire is so there is no problem. Hope you like your TransEar.
Jean
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I am going tomorrow for an impression for a TransEar............I am SO excited (and a bit nervous hoping that it won't hurt...I've have enough head pain already). I have read about open mouth and closed mouth impressions...does it really make a difference?
Margaret
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Marg:
We now recommend closed mouth impressions for most people. These seem to yield more consistent fits.
Rick Gilbert
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Thanks Rick. I saw your post just before I left this morning for my appointment...so I had him do the impressions closed mouth. After I left and got home I wondered if there are different colors to choose from - I thought I had read that other people had a choice..... My hearing aid specialist didn't show me anything ..... should I call him back about this? He is going to air ship the impressions to TransEar today or tomorrow.
This whole hearing aid thing is new to me so.... didn't think about color. I am very fair skinned... but have brown hair (at least for now.... it's starting to turn gray lol :D . So what do you think? What is the 'standard color' you do this in?
Thanks again,
Margaret
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Margaret:
Tan is the base color of the behind-the-ear processor. We offer a brown or black case, but the programming button and volume control are still tan. These are custom built, and they will take a few extra days. If you have long hair, you probably won't be able to see any of the processor regardless of color. For the faceplate, we offer tan, brown, and a "chameleon," which is great for those who have ruddy complexions or pink skin.
Regards,
Rick
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My audiologist called and I started wearing my TransEar 270 on September 28. I have worn it every day, all day since and it is very comfortable. I am not having to turn my head around to hear what someone says when they are on my deaf side now. Also, my tinnitus does not bother me as much as the TransEar seems to make it not as loud as before.
One day when I had a call on my cell phone, I put the cell phone on speaker and put my index finger very tightly on my good ear and I could hear and carry on the conversation using my deaf ear with the TransEar.
My only problem is that my glasses keep slipping between the TransEar and my head. Tomorrow morning I have an appointment with my Ophthalmologist and will find out what he recommends. Has anyone else had this problem?
Jean
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Jean:
I wear BTEs on both ears. My glasses sit between the BTE and my head, so what you are experiencing with TransEar is perfectly normal. ;D
Regards,
Rick
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Congratulations on your successes! I've been watching and reading you...
Jean, my TransEar BTE goes on my ear after I put my glasses on. In fact I couldn't insert my TransEar mold into my ear canal unless my glasses were on. ;D
Seriously, the audiologist instructed me to put the eyeglasses on my head first. My glasses have very thin temple pieces, lightweight titanium. The TransEar BTE mounts over the ear next to the temple piece. Once in a while I can hear a little whistle if I adjust my glasses...to be expected.
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Thanks, Rick & Boppie - I feel better now...didn't have anything else to worry about so guess I decided to worry about the temple of my glasses interfering with the BTE on my TransEar. ;D
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I am very happy to hear that Trans Ear is working for everyone. I am 30 years old, and lost my hearing in my left ear when I was about 12 years old. I was told that there wan't anything that they could do. I just decided to look into the new technology, and I was directed to this web site. I do not have ANA, but I really needed information. It will cost me $3000.00 to get this hearing aid, and I really do not have that much money. Are there any issues that I should be aware of?
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Myrnski, Welcome to the forum! You can use the search tool on the home page and read several long threads about TransEar. If your present hearing fits the parameters you would be a good candidate to try the TransEar. I feel the expense is well worth the product. They have a warranty and a breakin period.
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I second Boppie. I just passed the 1-year point with my TransEar, and if I had it to do over again (even with many more problems than most seem to have), I'd do it in a heartbeat. It's humming along (not literally, of course) just beautifully now. I also had to pay out of pocket for mine (though I did ask the audiologist if there was "anything they could do" discount-wise - and got 10% knocked off). I charged it (some MasterCards have an extended warranty feature if you purchase things with the card - excellent way to save the money for the extended warranty through your audiologist).
Just a note on what Boppie mentioned earlier (I've been away for a while, and am just catching up). I also have the "original" larger in-the-ear unit, and started out with the rigid wire. I went to the flexible wire later, and wouldn't go back now. It just has to be sized right. I HATED the first one that was too long, but a shorter one later on was just great and I now wouldn't go back to the rigid wire. Personally, I'm happy to have the older version - I like the extra in-the-ear contact. I don't know if that makes a lot of difference, but I certainly don't mind not having the "half-shell" newer version.
Chris
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Chris,
I am getting my Transear on Sunday. Needless to say, I am so excited! I will find out about MC, thanks for your post.
Eve
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I got my Transear! Finallly! I wore it all day today and I can hear on the bad side but it is less loud than the good side. Even a little bit helps a lot! The audiologist said that if I get ulcers in the ear that the Transear is in, come back and he will sand it down. He believes that ulcers are the result of the mold that is too tight that compresses the ear. So far it is comfortable. He also said that most hearing aides come with the warranty if it is lost but he is not sure about the Transear. Anybody knows?
Eve
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Yay, Eve! It's amazing that you can tell there's that much of a difference.
I pick up my Transear on Wednesday. ;D I'll let you know how it goes! (And I'll try to remember to ask about the warranty.)
Katie
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Kathy,
I wore my Transear straight from my audiologist's office to a loud restaurant where a big rectangular table was set up in honor of my mother-in-law's 75th birthday. When I arrived, everybody was already sitting and my wonderful mother-in-law reserved me a seat at the end facing everybody with my DEAF ear. I don't think she realized it but that was a test for my new Transear. For once, I could clearly hear all the ladies sitting at the other end of the table and gossiping! I did not guess, turn my head or fill in the conversation. I realized that I also pay extra attention in order to listen on the deaf side. That attention is not available for other things like thinking and speech. In other words, in order for me to hear what the ladies are speaking about, I have to not speak myself. I actually enjoyed my food on the plate, talked to my neighbor and heard precisely (not just some sounds of the words) what these ladies on the other end said! Extra attention diverted to listening also means that I do not appear to react very fast to the situations and spoken words because seconds or split seconds pass when I fill in the speech or guess.
Nothing is better than your own well- functioning two ears and the sound from the Transear is not as loud as the one from the good ear. It definitely helps though. My understanding is BAHA is better that Transear but it is too expensive and invasive for me. I hope it works for you!
Eve
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Eve - I'm so glad your TransEar is working for you! And don't feel bad, my mother-in-law would have done the same thing to me! :D
As far as the warranty goes, I have a BAHA so it might be different, but my audiologist said after the one year factory warranty is up, to add it on to my Homeowner's policy. He said BAHA's extended warranty is expensive and it's cheaper and easier to do it on your own insurance. You just have to make sure you call your insurance company and they'll have to add it on as a rider to your existing policy. You can do with with Renter's insurance too.
Enjoy all the new noise!
Lori
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Thanks, Lori. for the advice and kind words! I will find out about putting the Transear on my home insurance.
Word about my new Transear: I put it all wrong today and nothing was happening! I tested for hearing in that ear. It took me two more tries but I achieved the right fit. I still don't know what the two programs on the Transear do. Anybody who has it?
Eve
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Eve,
If I understood your post correctly, you had trouble putting it in right. My audiologist showed me how to reach around behind my head with my opposite-side hand and pull my ear lobe and the lower back portion of my ear firmly down and back while inserting the TransEar. Also, turn the TransEar about 1/4 turn from the way it will end up once it's in, and then sort of slowly "screw" it in your ear by turning it as it goes up the ear canal. It really hurt to put in for the first week, until she showed me how to do this. Now I don't even think about it - I've got by left hand holding the TransEar and twisting it as it goes in, while pulling down and back on that left ear with my right hand from behind my head. It's a two-hand operation, but once you get used to it, it's like moving your foot from the gas pedal to the brake pedal - you don't even think about it. Apparently this maneuver straightens the ear canal just enough to let it go in better and easier.
As for the two programs, just push down on the button and you'll hear two beeps, signifying that it has gone into program #2. That's set to reduce noise and make it easier to understand in groups. Program #1 is for general use. I find program #2 to actually be the more comfortable of the two, now that I've got it programmed right (THANK YOU Ear Technology!). But I suppose it's personal preference and how your particular unit is programmed. If your audiologist has any questions, s/he'll find that Ear Technology folks are quite willing to talk him or her through any glitches while on the phone actually doing the programming with you in the office. They're great folks!
Congratulations on your early success. I wasn't so lucky, but am very glad I hung in there and worked through the problems. I'm now past the 1 year point, and even though it all came out of my pocket (no insurance coverage), it was well worth it.
Chris
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Chris,
Sorry you had so much trouble with your Transear but very often getting through a bad experience is when you learn the most. Thanks for sticking around; your posts are extremely helpful!
I also find program #2 most comfortable to use. Maybe because you don't have to switch back and forth between the programs because you never know when you are going to enter a crowded or noisy place? Then when is program #1 an advantage? I would love to compare notes!
In terms of programming, how do I know the best is achieved for me? I can probably carry a telephone conversation with my Transear (it is on my right side) but the sound is faint and I have to concentrate. Is it true for everybody who wears Transear? How about BAHA users?
Eve
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To jerseygirl and others who have asked specific questions, I've been off the board for a while handling some pressing non-TransEar issues, so with apologies let me answer the questions that have been asked here.
First, loss and damage coverage. During the first year, if a user loses or damages (dog chews it, run over by a car wheel, etc) a TransEar , there is a deductible applied for each part that is replaced. (You would discuss the cost of this with your audiologist.) One of the reasons we include a Dry & Store Global unit with each TransEar is for safe storage, and judging by the few claims we have received under L & D coverage, it must be working.
Regarding phone use, while it is possible to use the TransEar side on the phone in a quiet setting, it will never be as good as the working ear on the other side. Add a bit of background noise to the equation, and I think the good ear - which is not covered by the phone receiver, would be overwhelmed by the noise to the detriment of speech discrimination. Bottom line, use the good ear for the phone unless you want to show off!
Regarding the two programs: program one is meant to be your default. That's the one that will automatically be "loaded" when you turn it on in the morning or when the battery door is opened or closed. We ship all TransEars with the same flat response and internal volume settings. It is up to your provider to make simple adjustments to increase or decrease gain (volume) independent of the external volume control. Your provider can also add or subtract individual frequencies to suit your taste. TransEar's processor also has four (three usable) compression bands that the provider can tweak so as to reduce the volume of sudden loud sounds. Most will be happy with the default compression settings, but if a user is in a unique environment (lives near a big airport, house next to a railroad track, etc.) the bands can be adjusted so that loud sounds are not amplified to the same degree as soft sounds.
We usually recommend that when program one is set to the user's satisfaction, the provider should copy program one to program two, then add adaptive noise reduction to program two, so that with the touch of a button background noise (such as in a crowded restaurant) can be reduced. There are three pre-set levels of noise reduction available in TransEar's processor, and one can be selected by the provider quickly and easily. Keep in mind that when adding adaptive noise reduction, some gain is lost, so there is a trade-off in performance involved. Noise reduction can be added to program one as well, but we would not suggest it be used by default.
Warranty: TransEar carries a one-year warranty, but a second year can be added for a modest cost - but only during the first year of use.
ChrisB, great description of the proper way to insert your TransEar. Thanks!
To jerseygirl again, TransEar will never be as loud as your working ear. Although I can't speak personally fof BAHA, it suspect it is the same due to the nature of bone conduction.
Regards,
Rick
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Thanks, Rick!
Eve
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My experience with Transear was a total waste of money. I should be using it as a fishing lure.
-am considering getting rid of it on Craigs list. I'll maybe take 25- 100 bux.
a total waste.
for me at least..
I know some of you are fascinated with it.
I wish I would've gone BAHA route right during the surgery itself. :'(
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Ixta,
My audiologist said that he fitted 4 Transears so far: 3 women and 1 man. Only one person returned and it is a man! I am the fifth one and no way I am returning!
I told him that when I worked in a male dominated field, I never considered SSD a liability. I simply could hear everything, be it meetings, groups, one on ones, etc. I always thought that the only problem I have is my sons' basketball games. Now I am switching fields and it happens to be a female dominated field. I was shocked to find out that SSD is actuallly a disability professionally. My hearing in a good ear did not change over the years. Now I am asking "what?" a lot more frequently than I want. I thought about this and the explanation I came up with is 1) women like to gossip which is softer than soft speech and 2) women's voices are naturally softer to our ears and are higher frequency where threshold is naturally lower. The end result of all this is that I get left out when women gossip which happens to be a way of doing things and simply cannot hear some very soft ladies voices when spoken on my bad side. It is not impossible but it is really difficult to function because by the time I fill in what that person said (usually from lip or face reading and the situation), I miss other things said and pay dearly.
I hope you are doing well otherwise.
Eve
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My personal experience is that I don't notice a great deal of difference (consciously), but my husband has commented that the number of times he has to repeat himself has dropped dramatically. That's good enough for me! ;D
Katie
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Dear Ixta:
Let me repeat the regrets we have that you were not a successful TransEar candidate. You have posted that you have some calcium deposits in your ear canal, and that condition alone significantly increases the need for physical fit adjustments to the transfer unit by your audiologist. Importantly, last summer you also posted that you had never returned to the professional who fit your TransEar for any adjustments, and you did not avail yourself of the no-obligation trial period that all users receive. In October, I responded to one of your posts with a question about the fitting sequence for your instrument, and you did not reply. So in fairness not only to the product but to the others who might be swayed by your negative experience, with all due respect I'd like to ask the question again.
??? After receiving your TransEar, have you ever returned to your audiologist for adjustments to either the physical fit or the programming?
Except for the SSD part, I hope your recovery from the surgery and after-effects is going well.
Regards,
Rick
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I just have to put out Kudos to Keith at Puget Sound Hearing Aids in Tacoma for my TransEar. I've had it since 12/26 and he did such a good mold and programming that I have not had to return for adjustments. No sore spots, and I think the sound quality is really good. It was on the top side of the markup range I've heard about, but definitely worth it. As Katie said, minute to minute I don't notice it unless I don't have it on, and I think I'm saying "what?" a lot less often and speech doesn't sound as mumbled. To any who are wondering about it, you have to give it some time to notice a difference. I had a feeling about this going in, and I think I was right....that you wear it and get used to it, and what you notice most is when you don't have it and need it because your brain takes it for granted so quickly. You notice the loss more than the gain, if that makes sense.
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To all at this forum---I have been reading your posts for several weeks now -- I found a great audiologist in my area who has fitted 12 of the Transear and as of Tuesday I have been wearing my new Transear 270. I do notice a improvement! I will be going to my 1st dinner Sat. and my first party Friday. I volunteer at the Philadelphia Zoo and I was able to hear a kid today on my deaf side. So far-so good.
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Leftie....wonderful!!!!! Enjoy the TransEar and your party!
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Question: When you are not wearing the Transear for short period of time where do you put the Transear? Do you put it in the Dry&Store and not turn the Dry&Store on? Or do you do something else (what)?
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I got a little pouch for my TransEar. I put it there if I'm out and wish to take it out for an hour or two.
Jean
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I also use the little blue pouch that came with the TransEar. If you just need something to store it in for short periods of time, I'd think any small cloth bag would do. It's not rigid, but offers some protection. You could also use a small, clean tin or something similar.
Katie
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I use the blue pouch too. I keep it in my purse with a set of fresh batteries in it in case I need those too.
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I went to my first sit-down dinner (20 people) at a long table. I heard so much more than I have in 5 years. My husband was amazed! To prove it to myself, I took out my Transear, and then placed it back it -big difference. Going back to audiologist on Monday, i think I need a drop of ajustment to the fit. Thanks all for your info.
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I just had surgery which resulted in SSD. Left ear. I am looking into options, BAHA or TransEar. What are the costs of the TransEar? How long does it take to get fitted and is the trial period long enough to determine if the unit will meet usere expectations.
DAC
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I just had surgery which resulted in SSD. Left ear. I am looking into options, BAHA or TransEar. What are the costs of the TransEar? How long does it take to get fitted and is the trial period long enough to determine if the unit will meet usere expectations.
DAC
I think the quotes I've seen for TransEar here are mostly in the $2500-3000 range. I paid $2600 for the unit itself, and $300 for all the audiologist fees (which includes free batteries for 1 year). You have 30 days (I'm pretty sure) from the time you get the actual custom unit to return it for a full refund. Getting it is actually pretty quick. I had an initial consult with the audiologist to make sure I was a good candidate (you'll need a recent audiogram that shows both air and bone conduction for both ears). During that appt, since I was sure I wanted a TransEar, the audiologist did the mold which just involves injecting some plastic mold into the ear canal and letting it sit for a few minutes to harden. She sent that off to TransEar, and the unit came back less than 2 weeks later.
I've had 3 appts so far since getting it to turn up the volume as I get used to it, and to adjust the fit/tuning. I actually haven't needed any adjustments to the fit, but have had the frequencies adjusted a bit.
As you'll read from many of the accounts, I find that I don't consciously notice a lot of difference to my hearing when I'm wearing the TransEar. And it can't return directionality. But, I do notice a deficit when I'm not wearing it and my husband says he notices the difference when I'm not wearing it (Apparently I say "What???" a lot more without it! :D )
I've been very happy with it.
Katie
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Katie, 100% in agreement with your details. I couldn't have said it quicker.
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And I'll throw in a third agreement! :)
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I agree too Katie. I have forgotten to wear my TransEar a a couple of times to school since I got it ...and it is much more stressful. I miss the 'extra edge' of "hearing" some of the talking going on on my deaf side - although I must turn it down (and sometimes off ) on the playground where it is very loud. I can't imagine going back to life without my TransEar. It gives me just enough to get by in my teaching job with all those soft 2nd grade voices.
Marg
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DAC,
I'll add a 5th or 6th to that list agreeing with Katie. The difference with/without doesn't seem that much - until you forget it one day, or suddenly realize you just heard something you wouldn't have heard without it.
My personal recommendation, since you just had the surgery, is to wait at least 2-3 months, and get used to what it's like not to have the TransEar. I honestly don't believe I would have appreciated it, and may very well have turned it back for a refund, had I gotten it in the first month or so. The shock of a one-sided hearing world can be a bit overwhelming at first. You may end up expecting (hoping for) too much, and not realize just how much you do gain from the TransEar. It's almost impossible to explain to someone who hasn't already experienced it, but that subtle difference that is actually so significant, would likely not be noticed (or appreciated) in the first couple of months.
I woke up without left side hearing (not from surgery) in July 06, but didn't get the TransEar until January 07, mostly due to finances. That 6 months was a real blessing in disguise, I think. I'd moved out of the "seriously irritable" stage to only mild to moderate irritability. :-\ I was getting used to what it sounded and felt like with just one ear providing hearing. In other words, it was sort of a new normal by the 6 month point. So when the TransEar came, and after several months of hassling with my audiologist to finally get the programming reasonably right, I really appreciated the device. I was walking down the sidewalk at church, leaving before my wife that day (she had a later meeting to stay for). She was walking with me part way, we said good bye, and I turned and continued walking toward the parking lot. Suddenly, with her almost directly behind me on my O.O.O. ("Out Of Order") side, I realized she was talking to me again - and I understood her! I tried to explain it away by assuming I was getting some sound bouncing off a wall of the church building not too far from me, but I really didn't think I would have heard her before the TransEar. I turned around and asked her if she thought I'd have been able to hear her with my back almost toward her and my bad ear slightly facing her with my good ear somewhat away from her. She looked shocked - I can still remember the look on her face. She hadn't realized I had turned around so far and walked as far away as I had. When I turned back around to ask the question, she replied, "You heard that?!?!?" To check it out, I went across the street, turned my O.O.O. ear directly toward her on the other side of the street, Remember, we were also in the "great expanse of the outdoors" (a tough hearing situation with nothing to bounce sound back to your good ear). She was at least 20 feet away. She started talking and I repeated back everything she said. Having been used to SSD for more than ½ year by then, we both knew instantly what the TransEar was actually doing for me - and appreciated it all the more. You don't know what you've gained back, until you really know what you're missing, and that only comes with time.
Long response, only occasional visitor these days, but hope this helps. I'm now two months past the warranty period, and not at all sorry I bought it. I'd do it again now, if I had to. Best wishes to you DAC. It can be very frustrating, even depressing at times, when you're suddenly without good bilateral hearing. But it's not the end of the world, I found out, and I hardly think about it much anymore - other than still being aware I have to say, "What was that, again?" more than I'd like - but not as much as the 6 months without the TransEar. And crowds with lots of noise are still unpleasant, but not nearly as bad as they used to be.
Chris B.
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Still enjoy my TransEar..... but notice in the summer (school is out) I don't wear it every day if I'm just staying home ... but I plan to wear it daily again once school starts in the Fall..... makes my job easier.
marg
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I'm still wearing my TransEar even in the summer. Only take it out when I'm running or near water. The other day I had some music playing on my computer and was talking on the phone. I realized that I was hearing my computer music through the TransEar! Usually I don't notice such a distinction. I think it gets even better as your brain adapts.
Jean
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Can anyone tell me the difference between the Trans Ear and the BAHA. I only had my AN surgery 5 weeks ago, so I have awhile before I decide.
I've mainly heard about BAHA here, b/c Jan talks about hers. The other day I did read something about the Trans Ear for the first time.
Anyone tried both?
Just curious ;)
Lacey
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Lacey -
the major difference between the BAHA and the Transear is that the BAHA is an implant and the Transear is a hearing aid.
As you probably know, the BAHA requires a titanium implant that gets drilled into the skull and a hearing aid (processor) is attached to the implant. There is nothing worn on or in the ear. The processor is in effect "snapped" onto the skull. Obviously the BAHA requires a surgery.
The Transear is a hearing aid that fits deep into the ear canal, but from what I understand it's better than the conventional hearing aid. I also know that the Transear is custom fitted to the patient which is probably why it works better than your "run of the mill" hearing aid.
BAHAs cost more than Transears because there is a surgery involved. However, while most insurance companies can deny coverage of the Transear - on the grounds it is a hearing aid, which are generally excluded from insurance policies - the BAHA is technically an implant so insurance companies generally cover it. While most insurance companies don't know what a BAHA is, if they cover Cochlears, they have to cover BAHAs (BAHAs are to unilateral deafness aka SSD - what Cochlears are to bilateral deafness).
Boppie and Katie Bonner both have Transears; Sam Rush, Ellis, Joef, Lori, Sabuck, and I all have BAHAs. There are probably others in both categories, but these are the names that come to my mind right now.
There is someone on this forum who has tried both and I'm thinking it is Grampa; but I'm not positive.
Anyone else know?
Jan
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Lacey -
found the link myself http://anausa.org/forum/index.php?topic=6613.0
The member is gramps, not grampa.
Guess I just answered my own question :D
Jan
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Thanks, Jan, for taking the time to answer my questions.
I know it takes alot of time to type in all that.....and you always seem to do it without complant.
And, you always go above and beyond to get in all the answers, and to explain it well.
Thank you so much for being here to help people. You, and a 100 like you, seem like you are always there when we need someone.
God bless you.
Lacey
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Lacey, since I have neither, I can give you an impartial description. ;)
Both systems capture sound on the deaf side of your head, and transmit it through your skull bone to the good ear on the other side.
The BAHA is attached to a titanium post which is mounted directly in the skull bone, above and behind the deaf ear. It transmits the sound through the post into the skull.
The TransEar is embedded in a custom mold that fits deep into the ear canal of the deaf ear. It transmits the sound through the hard surfaces of the canal into the skull.
A lot depends on whether you think snapping a device onto your head is cool or not. If you are like me, it does. 8)
Steve
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Thanks for your kind words, Lacey :)
I like to think that what goes around, comes around.
So many here have helped me, I think it's only right that I do what I can to help others.
I firmly believe that I was given an acoustic neuroma for a reason; contributing to this forum is just a part of that reason.
Jan
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Hi Lacey,
I have an transEar and am very thankful for it. It does help some...but I can't say it picks up more sound compared to a BAHA. With TransEar the upside is that you don't have more surgery and something 'sticking out of your head' to connect to. ... the down side is that you may have to send it in for repair (which I just did yesterday). I went with the TransEar because I felt it gave me more flexibility for when something newer and better came along ( hopefully also without surgery). It is a very personal decison ...and I would do research on both ..to make the best decision for you. What was said about cost was true for me...very little was covered with insurance.
marg
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Dear Lacey:
I'd like to expand a bit on Jan's otherwise excellent (as usual!) response. While TransEar® looks like a hearing aid, at that point the similarities end. Hearing aids are acoustic devices, essentially amplifying sounds, which are then transmitted through the ear canal by an acoustic speaker ('receiver' in industry-speak). As we all know, amplified sounds don't exactly help if you have a dead ear!
TransEar was designed specifically for single-sided-deafness, and it is registered with the FDA for that purpose. Instead of an acoustic receiver, TransEar uses a bone vibrator that sits deep in the ear canal of the dead ear where there is only a very thin layer of skin over bone - no soft tissue to dampen the oscillations at all. It is similar to BAHA® in that sounds are picked up by the microphone, processed by the "processor," then passed to a bone vibrator which directly stimulates the skull. The vibrations are then carried by bone the very short distance to the good ear, where they are processed in a somewhat normal fashion. TransEar is non-surgical, it can be tried/trialed - usually with little or no obligation - like a traditional hearing aid. It is usually fit by audiologists, not surgeons, and once tested and qualified by their audiologist the purchaser can be wearing their TransEar in as little as two weeks. TransEar is usually not covered by insurance, although a few members have reported coverage of some kind. If you search this forum, you will find a large number of posts that mention retail cost, which we have no control over since we are the manufacturer.
Compared to BAHA, TransEar is a relatively new device, in production since late 2005. Like BAHA, we are continually improving the device, so each year it gets better, and we are able to implement new technology to improve gain, sound quality, and reliability. There is still a lot to learn about bone conduction, and we hope that there is a Ph.D. or Au.D researcher out there who has interest in it. I am not aware of any studies that compare BAHA and TransEar, but when you think about it is like comparing an apple and an orange. It is easy to go from a TransEar to a BAHA, but going the other direction probably doesn't happen much once the surgery has been done. This makes it tough on potential researchers.
As Marg has said, it is a very personal decision. The good news is that there are choices from two firms who are committed to their products. And that's a good thing!
I wish you well as you investigate your options. You've come to the right place, as members of this forum prove over and over again how well-informed they are, and how open they are to sharing their experiences.
Rick Gilbert
VP & GM of Ear Technology Corp/TransEar
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Rick -
thanks for this very informative response to Lacey's question; I learned a lot about the TransEar from reading it.
While I absolutely adore my BAHA, I totally agree with both you and Marg - just like AN treatment, BAHA vs TransEar is a very personal choice.
Thanks for reinforcing that.
Jan
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Hi Rick:
I need some help from you, just a question. I got my TransEar after 1 month of daydreams, when I got it, JUST IT DIDN'T WORK, According to your experience is it possible that this hearing aid can not work in someone?. I read a lot of good experiences. Can you please read the topic "Is it possible that the hearing could come back" under HEARING AIDS, because I am posting there my experience.
Thanks in advance,
Gloria