If you’ve visited an audiologist for a hearing test and found out you have hearing loss, the next step is to select a hearing aid. Hearing aids connect you to the world around you, making it easier to hear your partner when dining out and enjoy the music at the Charleston Symphony.
Today’s hearing aids are available from many manufacturers, come in a number of different styles and contain a variety of features, which can make the selection process feel overwhelming. Fortunately, your audiologist at The Hearing & Balance Center will work with you every step of the way.
Types of Hearing Aids
There are many types of hearing aids, and your audiologist will help you pick the perfect one for your unique hearing loss. Below are three of the most common styles:
- In-the-canal (ITC) hearing aids are the smallest and most discreet type of hearing aid. While some fit partially in the canal, others fit totally in the canal and are almost completely invisible. This type of hearing aid is suitable for mild hearing loss. Because of their small size, features are limited.
- In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids fit in the bowl of your ear, filling either half or the entire bowl. These devices are suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss and tend to offer more features than ITCs, like directional microphones. These devices are also easier to handle for people with dexterity issues.
- Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids sit behind the ear and have a tube that wraps to the earmold to deliver sounds to your ears. BTEs are the largest style, meaning they offer the most features and are easiest to handle. These devices are suitable for a wide range of hearing losses and are often recommended for children.
Hearing Aid Features
As stated above, some hearing aids offer more features than others. Some state-of-the-art features on the market today include:
- Some devices provide a full day of hearing with one overnight charge, so you never have to change a battery.
- Wireless connectivity. Bluetooth-enabled devices can connect to your smartphone or smart TV, so they essentially can work as a wireless headset.
- Customizable programs. Some hearing aids offer customizable programs that automatically adjust to your environment.
For more information about today’s hearing aids or to schedule an appointment with a hearing aid expert, call The Hearing & Balance Center today!