Bone Anchored Hearing Aid (BAHA)

[JimBo]

Sort of bike related, so here goes.

I have severe hearing loss in both ears (no, not due to 'er indoors!), and it will get worse as I age, and it is!

I have the opportunity of being fitted with a BAHA which requires an implant (abutment) in my skull which a hearing aid attaches too. This allows bone conduction to my inner ear which is working fine. This implant is permanent in that it can only be removed surgically.

Herein lies the problem for motorcycling. Will putting on and taking off a motorcyle helmet "snag" the implant? Obviously I won't wear the hearing aid while riding, so we are talking about a small object sticking out.

Does anyone have any experience of BAHAs and motorcyling who could advise?

Thanks.

[Crap Tartan]

depends where its located i suppose and the amount it sticks out!!

Most helmets have a decent degree of padding that could be altered to take this into effect as the inner padding is only there to ensure a good fit and comfort. There are makers of custom helmets who could modify a helmet to suit possibly.

[AZ]

Put a light weight balaclava on 1st then the helmet can`t snag.Works for people with lots of piercings.

[weirdo]

"Bone anchored hearing aid" , ...Sounds like rhyming slang for a hearing aid that doesn't work.

"I need a new one, this one's w**kered"

[Crap Tartan]

"Bone anchored hearing aid" , ...Sounds like rhyming slang for a hearing aid that doesn't work.

"I need a new one, this one's w**kered"

why you saying "sounds like" ? shouldnt it be "SOUNDS LIKE"!!!!! LOL

[JimBo]

Thanks for the advice. I've seen my consultant and it appears there will be no problem at all.
The abutment is tiny and should cause no issues.

Only have to remember to remove the aid before donning helmet .

"Bone", "helmet" - this sites full of smut!

[Red Mist]

Speaking as one with physical issues, you can spend too much time worrying about this sort of stuff. I've no experience of BAHAs, but if this is going to make your life better then go for it. Then if your own helmet's uncomfy, look for one that gives the necessary clearence.

Some helmets are really tight when you try and put them on. Lots arn't. Lot's also have plenty of clearence round the ears so that you can fit speakers and the like.

If there are any problems with this fixture, I'm sure that it's one that you'll be able to solve easily.

[JimBo]

Thanks Red, I'm sure it will be OK.

The abutment is anchored in the skull behind the ear and it will be only while putting on and taking off my lid. As you say, if necessary I can modify the foam to accommodate it.

I'm sure it will make a big difference to my life so this, as you indicate, is a minor irritant.