Noise is a fact of modern life. From packed restaurants to sport stadiums to the train station, noise is all around and may become overwhelming sometimes. People who use hearing aids are particularly sensitive to this problem as it becomes difficult to differentiate between meaningless noise and important sound. Digital noise reduction technology embedded inside hearing aids is one approach to combating this problem. It allows the wearer to block unwanted noise and focus on specific sounds.Hearing aids that utilize digital noise reduction technology are able to pick up on the unique differences between speech and noise. In quiet environments, picking up the sounds of speech is easy because they are the primary sounds in the room. Likewise, if you are listening to someone in a crowded room, your device understands that there noise present. Once your device picks up on sounds that may interfere with your ability to follow a conversation, it automatically lowers the volume in the noisy channels.While no hearing aid can completely eliminate unwanted noise, it can go a long way in reducing the frustration brought about by trying to communicate in loud environments. The general consensus among hearing aid wearers with this technology is that speech sounds better and background noise is less overpowering.Users are most pleased with their results when the device is used to counteract a constant background noise. This means that steady sounds such as an air conditioner or engine running are more effectively blocked than dynamic music or a nearby conversation.To make the most out of the digital noise reduction feature in your hearing aid, you might want to consider taking some common sense steps to reduce the noise around you. For example, if you find yourself in a noisy part of a restaurant, ask to be seated somewhere that isn’t quite as hectic.Digital noise reduction technology is not perfect, but it can go a long way in helping to counteract the unwanted noise you encounter in your day to day life.