Did you know that one in eight people in America aged 12 years or older has had hearing loss in both ears or has difficulty hearing?
You’re not sure what type of hearing aid is right for you.
It can be confusing trying to figure out which type of hearing aid is best for you. There are so many different types and brands on the market, how do you know which one to choose?
But don’t worry. Keep reading because we’ve created this guide to help make your decision easier. By understanding the different types of hearing aids available, you can find the best hearing aids for your needs.
Main Types of Hearing Aids
The three main types of hearing aids are behind-the-ear (BTE), in-the-ear (ITE), and in-the-canal (ITC) devices. Let’s take a closer look at each type to see what makes them unique so you can make the right choice when buying a hearing aid.
Behind-The-Ear Hearing Aids
BTE aids are worn behind the ear, with a custom ear mold or tip that fits inside the ear canal. BTEs are larger than other types of hearing aids, but they offer several advantages.
For one, BTEs are easier to put on and take off than other types of aids. They’re also less likely to fall out, making them a good choice for active people or those with dexterity issues. BTEs are also easier to clean and maintain than smaller devices.
In addition, BTEs can be equipped with features that aren’t available in other types of hearing aids, such as directional microphones and telephone switches. And because they’re larger, BTEs can house bigger batteries, resulting in longer battery life.
BTE hearing aids are available in both standard and mini sizes. Standard BTEs are larger but have more powerful amplification than mini BTEs. Mini BTEs are less visible but may not be suitable for people with severe hearing loss.
In-The-Ear Hearing Aids
ITE hearing aids are custom devices that fit inside the outer ear. Like BTEs, ITEs are easier to put on and take off than ITC or CIC aids. And because they don’t go deep into the ear canal, ITEs are less likely to cause irritation or infection.
ITEs are available in full-shell and half-shell styles. Full-shell ITEs fill the bowl-shaped area of the outer ear (also called the concha). Half-shell ITEs only cover part of the concha.
Full-shell ITEs tend to be more visible than half-shell devices, but they offer better sound quality and amplification. Half-shell ITEs are less visible but may not be suitable for people with severe hearing loss.
In-The-Canal Hearing Aids
ITC hearing aids are custom devices that fit deep into the ear canal. ITCs are the smallest type of hearing aid available, making them practically invisible when worn.
While ITCs are less likely to cause irritation or infection than BTEs, they can be more difficult to put on and take off. And because they’re so small, ITCs can be difficult to handle, particularly for those with dexterity issues.
Like ITEs, ITCs are available in full-shell and half-shell styles. Full-shell ITCs fill the ear canal, while half-shell ITCs only cover part of it.
Full-shell ITCs offer better sound quality and amplification than half-shell devices. But they can be more difficult to insert and remove, and they’re more likely to cause irritation or infection. Half-shell ITCs are easier to use but may not be suitable for people with severe hearing loss.
Cochlear Implants
Cochlear implants are a type of hearing aid that bypasses damaged hair cells in the inner ear and directly stimulates the auditory nerve. This allows people with severe hearing loss to hear sounds and understand speech.
Cochlear implants are surgically implanted, so they’re not suitable for everyone. In addition, they require regular maintenance and care. But for those who are candidates, cochlear implants can greatly improve hearing and quality of life.
If you’re interested, you can check out the best hearing clinics here.
Hearing Aid Styles
Now that you know the different types of hearing aids, it’s time to choose a style. The style you choose will be based on your needs, preferences, and budget.
Here are some of the most popular styles of hearing aids:
In-The-Ear (ITE) Hearing Aids
These custom-made devices fit inside the outer ear. ITE hearing aids are available in full-shell and half-shell styles. Full-shell ITEs fill the bowl-shaped area of the outer ear (also called the concha). Half-shell ITEs only cover part of the concha.
In-The-Canal (ITC) Hearing Aids
These custom-made devices fit deep into the ear canal. ITC hearing aids are the smallest type of hearing aid available, making them practically invisible when worn.
Behind-The-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids
These devices fit behind the ear and are connected to an earmold that fits inside the ear canal. BTE hearing aids come in both standard and mini sizes. Standard BTEs are larger but have more powerful amplification than mini BTEs. Mini BTEs are less visible but may not be suitable for people with severe hearing loss.
Receiver-In-Canal (RIC) Hearing Aids
RIC hearing aids are similar to BTEs, but the receiver (amplifier) is housed in the ear canal instead of behind the ear. This makes RIC hearing aids more cosmetically appealing than BTEs.
Open-Fit Hearing Aids
Open-fit hearing aids are similar to BTEs, but they have a small tubing system that goes from the device to a thin wire that fits along the top of the ear canal. This leaves the ear canal open, which can be beneficial for people with mild to moderate hearing loss.
Want to Learn More About the Different Types of Hearing Aids?
All in all, there are several types of hearing aids that you can pick from. It all depends on your current lifestyle and budget. Be sure to consult with a hearing specialist so they can help you make the best decision for your needs.
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