Much like trying to pick the perfect pastry when visiting Sugar Bakeshop, deciding on the perfect hearing aids can feel overwhelming. There are so many models to choose from, it can be difficult to figure out which one will best meet your needs and preferences. While your audiologist will walk with you during every step of the selection process, we wanted to compile this guide to hearing aids styles that will help you get started.
Basic Types of Hearing Aids
There are two basic types of hearing aids: in the ear (ITE) and behind the ear (BTE).
ITE hearing aids are worn in the ear canal and are custom-molded to your ear’s anatomy. Their visibility depends on what type you get, though they come in a variety of colors to match your skin tone.
BTE hearing aids sit behind or on top of the outer ear and are attached to a custom-fit earmold or dome with tubing. These styles also come in a variety of colors to blend in or stand out.
ITE Hearing Aids
Common ITE hearing aids include:
- Invisible in the canal (IIC). These devices are worn deep in the ear canal and are nearly invisible. While they are highly discreet, they are susceptible to earwax damage and may not be suitable for people with poor dexterity.
- Completely in the canal (CIC). CICs are similar to IICs except they don’t sit quite as deep in the ear canal, making them slightly more visible. The advantages and disadvantages are similar to IICs.
- In the canal (ITC). These devices sit in the lower part of the outer ear bowl. They’re comfortable, easy to use, have a longer battery life and suit a wider range of hearing losses. Disadvantages include being susceptible to moisture damage and causing occlusion, or a plugged up feeling in the ears.
- Low-profile. These are similar to ITCs and are available in half-shell, filling only the half the ear bowl, or full-shell, filling all of it. These devices are large enough to feature directional microphones and manual controls, but they are less discreet and also cause occlusion.
BTE Hearing Aids
BTE hearing aid models include:
- Behind the ear with earmold. BTEs with earmolds are suitable for any type of hearing loss and house many features, controls and long-lasting batteries. BTEs are ideal for children, and many can be connected to smartphones. However, these devices can be difficult to conceal and may interfere with where your glasses sit.
- Receiver in the ear (RITE). These devices are open-fit with the speaker located in the ear dome rather than the main body, and the two parts are connected via wiring. This style is available in rechargeable models and the speaker is easy to replace, but it is also especially prone to moisture and wax damage.
For more information about the many types of hearing aids available or to schedule an appointment, call The Hearing & Balance Center today.