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Hearing Aids

Different Kinds of Hearing Aids Explained

VWB Blog 1 year ago 9

Did you know many people suffer from hearing loss in the world? You might think of hearing loss as an old person’s problem, but it can happen at any age. This can cause significant difficulties in communication and everyday activities.

When you notice some hearing loss, it may be too late. There are ways to keep your hearing ability intact if you find yourself sensitive to the sounds around you.

One of those ways is by having hearing aids. If you or someone you know has been considering switching over, but you’re not sure if you’re in the right fit– then you are in the right place.

Below, we’ve got some information on different kinds of hearing aids and which one is right for you.

What is a Hearing Aid?

A hearing aid is an electronic device that amplifies and otherwise modifies sound for individuals with hearing loss. There are different types of hearing aids, each of which is designed to meet the needs of a specific user.

The types of hearing aids include behind-the-ear (BTE), receiver-in-canal (RIC), in-the-ear (ITE), in-the-canal (ITC), and completely-in-canal (CIC) devices. Each type of hearing aid makes its compromise in terms of sound quality, convenience, and visibility, allowing those with hearing loss to find the right solution for their needs.

Behind-the-ear (BTE)

Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids are one of the most common types. They sit on the outside of the ear and lead clear tubing inside it.

BTE hearing aids feature a bulky behind-the-ear casing and a custom earmold. They are durable and best fit for adults and children with moderate to profound hearing loss.

One of the major benefits of this type is its versatility. They come in many styles, colors, and sizes and can be custom tailored to fit individual needs. They are designed to improve sound clarity while reducing distortion, making them the ideal choice for those with severe hearing loss.

The placement of the device behind the ear allows sound to be amplified more effectively, allowing the individual to hear more accurately. They also have a longer battery life than other hearing aid styles, allowing for greater convenience and more time between battery replacements.

Receiver-in-canal (RIC)

Receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aids are a type of hearing aid that sits slightly deeper in the ear canal than other styles. They are similar to BTE hearing aids in that they sit behind the ear but with a thin wire instead of a tube. RICs are nearly invisible and give users less feedback than other designs, making them a popular choice.

They are designed to allow sound to come in and out through the same attachments and generally have one thin microphone and one tube to allow air and sound to pass through. They have an excellent sound quality and can be programmed and adjusted to match the user’s individual needs with the help of their audiologist.

With their smaller size and improved comfort, RICs are now the most popular hearing aid style. RICs usually require a more advanced fitting and may not be suitable for everyone, but they can provide ease of wear and improved sound quality.

In-the-ear (ITE)

In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids are very popular among hearing aid users. These devices are small and come in various styles that fit discreetly inside and outside of the ear. They are preferred for their comfort and convenience as they are easier to manage and hide.

They amplify sound by amplifying and controlling sound’s direction, intensity, and frequency. This device also offers more programming options, making them ideal for more severe hearing losses.

Typically, these devices are open-fit and custom-made to fit the user’s unique ear shape. They are also incredibly adjustable and versatile. They work well in many different environments, including loud places, to help filter out background noise.

In addition, they are incredibly durable and can stand up to the wear and tear of daily life. Ultimately, they provide an effective and comfortable hearing aid solution for those with mild to severe hearing loss.

In-the-canal (ITC)

The In-The-Canal (ITC) hearing aid is one of the discreet styles available. It is inserted far inside the ear canal and is custom-made as its size is slightly larger than that of a traditional hearing aid. Smaller hearing aids provide slightly less sound than full-size hearing aids, making them suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss.

These advantages include improved sound quality, increased directionality to better focus on nearby sounds, and improved comfort. Disadvantages can include reduced battery life and difficulties with manipulating the small controls. The ITC hearing aid is ideal for those who prefer discreetness, comfort, and improved sound quality.

Completely-in-canal (CIC)

This hearing aid is custom fitted to the ear canal and is the smallest size. It is almost invisible when worn, allowing you to hear only what you need to hear while also providing a natural sound. Its small size allows for comfortable wearing and reduces the risk of it being visibly noticed.

Despite being small and discreet, these hearing aids offer digital sound processing technology, multiple channels, and the ability to adjust volume up or down without touching or taking off the aid. CIC hearing aids are best for people with mild to moderate hearing loss. You can check more about hearing aids for outdoor activities on this site.

Choose from Hearing Aids for Your Situation

Hearing aids are important tools to help those with hearing loss. They come in many shapes and sizes, and understanding their differences can help those with hearing loss find the most suitable solution.

If you are considering a hearing aid, speak to your doctor or audiologist today to find the right fit!

If you found these tips useful, please check out some other articles on our blog.

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