Although digital hearing aids are sometimes referred to as being programmable—and they are—the term programmable hearing aid is generally used to denote a hybrid hearing aid that has digital components that allows it to be programmed, but its underlying amplifier is analog. Sometimes called Digitally-Programmable Analog Hearing Aids.
Profound Hearing Loss
A hearing loss ranging between 91 and 120 decibels (dB). This is essentially a total hearing loss.
Pressure Equalization Tube (PE)
A small tube that is surgically inserted in the eardrum to equalize the pressure between the middle earand the ear canal and to permit drainage. PE tubes are used when anEustachian tube is not working properly or is clogged up—typically from a middle ear infection. Also called a tympanostomy tube, myringotomy tube or a grommet.
Presbycusis
(prez-bee-KOO-sis) Gradual hearing loss, especially in the high frequencies, due to aging.
Pre-lingually Deafened
A person who is either born deaf or who lost his hearing early in childhood, before acquiring language.
Pre-lingual
Before acquiring language.