A behind-the-ear hearing aid is capable of more amplification, but is also the most visible style.
There are many different types of hearing aid styles, so how do you know which one is right for you? If you’ve thought about getting a hearing aid, but are unsure of how it will look or function, knowing your options and what to look for is the first place to start. And although a hearing aid can’t restore normal hearing, the right hearing aid can significantly improve your hearing by amplifying soft sounds. In this first part on how to choose the right hearing style, we’ll take a look at some of the most common hearing aid styles
Completely-In-The-Canal (CIC) Hearing Aid
A completely-in-the-canal hearing aid improves mild to moderate hearing loss and is molded to fit within your ear canal. It is the smallest type of hearing aid and less likely to pick up wind noise. It also uses very small batteries, so battery life may not always be optimal. Completely-in-the-canal hearing aids are the most common style, but they don’t contain any extra features like volume control or a directional microphone. Earwax can also clog the speaker, so they should be regularly cleaned.
In the Canal
In-the-canal hearing aids a custom molded to fit only partly into the ear canal. They are less visible than other larger styles and include some features that won’t fit on completely-in-the-canal hearing aids. However, this style may be harder to adjust due to its small size, and is also susceptible to earwax clogging.
In the Ear (ITE)
In-the-ear hearing aids fill the bowl-shaped area of your outer ear. They are easier to handle and feature a larger battery for longer battery life. They may pick up more wind and are more visible than smaller devices.
Behind the Ear
Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids latch onto the top of your ear and rest behind it. A tube connects the hearing aid to an earmold within your ear canal. These hearing aids are versatile and appropriate for people of all ages with varying types of hearing loss. They are the largest and most visible type of hearing aid and do pick up more wind noise, but they tend to be capable of more amplification than the other styles.
Hear Better with Clarity Audiology & Hearing Solutions
Need help with your hearing? Clarity Hearing can help. Clarity Audiology & Hearing Solutions is an independently-owned and operated clinic that focuses on quality of care and personalized, friendly service. Our Doctors of Audiology are highly trained with advanced degrees and take the time to provide the personalized care and attention that you need and deserve. We provide advanced hearing aid options that personally calibrated with cutting-edge digital technology to fit your hearing loss, your unique ear anatomy, and your individual listening needs.
Come in for a walk-in appointment on Tuesdays & Fridays from 10:00am to 11:30am, or contact us to schedule an appointment by calling 410-698-6594 or visiting our contact page. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google+, and LinkedIn for more blog posts, news, and updates! 1