6 types of hearing aids: styles in and behind the ear

When choosing hearing aid, it is important to understand the different types available to meet your needs. Hearing aids are available in various styles that adapt inside and behind the ear. Each style offers certain advantages and disadvantages according to your severity of hearing loss and lifestyle.

1. Hearing aids of the ear (BTE)

One of the most popular styles is hearing aids of the ear (BTE). These devices are seated behind your ear, with a tube that runs the sound in the ear canal. The hearing aid case is linked to a headset or a earphones using a flexible transparent tube.

This style can be ideal for young children because it can easily be associated with different ears that can be switched as their ears develop. BTE hearing aids are:

• Easy to clean and manage
• Designed to be sustainable
• Suitable for a wide range of hearing losses

However, due to their size, they can be noticeable for others.

2. Hearing aid in the ear (ite)

Hearing aids in the ear (ite) adapt entirely inside the outer ear and are suitable for a light to severe hearing loss. The case is made of lasting plastic and some models include a teleconsiaur, a small magnetic component which allows the hearing aid to collect the sound through its circuits instead of the microphone. They are less visible than hearing aids in the ear.

This facilitates conversations and hearing sounds in crowded spaces such as churches, schools and airports. ITE aid is generally not recommended for young children because their ear size changes, and the device would need frequent replacement. They also use smaller batteries that require regular replacement.

3. Hearing aids in canal (ITC)

Hearing aids in the canal (ITC) are smaller than ite models and partly adapt inside the ear canal. They are discreet and are often chosen for those who have a light to moderate hearing loss.

Hearing aids from the channel can be difficult to adjust and remove due to their small size. In addition, their compact design offers a limited battery space and features such as a teleconsker. Due to their size constraints, channel aid is generally not recommended for young children or people with deep to deep hearing loss, as they may not provide enough power or volume.

4. Hearing aids entirely at the canal (CIC)

Hearing aids entirely in the canal (ICC) integrate deep into the auditory duct, making it one of the most discreet types available. These devices are ideal for those who have a light to moderate hearing loss who want almost invisible hearing aid. However, due to their smaller size, they are not recommended for children and have a lifetime of the limited battery.

5. Hearing aid of the receiver in the canal (RIC)

Hearing aids of the receiver in the canal (RIC), also known as “Mini Btes”, are a smaller version of traditional hearing aids behind the ear (BTE). These devices are seated behind the ear, but the speaker (or receiver) is placed directly in the ear canal for better sound quality. Instead of a large tube, RIC hearing aids use a thin and flexible tube to connect the device to the earphones. They are suitable for a wide range of hearing loss levels.

The headset is generally smaller than an ordinary BTE, but some models always use a standard atrium. This design has many advantages, including:

• Reduces the feeling of a blocked ear (the occlusion effect)
• Make the device more comfortable
• Decreases unwanted noise
• Makes hearing aid less visible to many people

6. Free hearing aid

Over -the -counter hearing aids (OTC) are available without a prescription, making it a practical and accessible option for people with mild to moderate hearing loss. These devices are designed to amplify sounds, offering a profitable solution. However, although they are an alternative easy to acquire and use, they may have limited personalization compared to prescription hearing aids.

Although over -the -counter hearing aids are affordable and accessible, they may not offer the same personalization or the same professional support as prescription options. It is essential to consult a health care provider before buying over -the -counter hearing aids to ensure that they are the right choice for your hearing needs.

Do some styles work better?

Hearing aids are available in different styles and are suitable for a range of hearing loss levels. BTE hearing aids are ideal for people with moderate to deep hearing loss, while CIC or ITC models are better for those who have a light to moderate hearing loss that want a more discreet option. When you choose the right style, it is important to consider your level of hearing loss, lifestyle and how visible you would like.

How to choose

The choice of good hearing aid depends on factors such as the severity of your hearing loss, comfort, battery life and aesthetic preference. A hearing specialist can guide you to the best option for your needs. It is also important to consider the amount you are ready to spend, because prices vary considerably depending on the model.

Here are some common auditory aid features to consider:

• Bluetooth compatibility: Allows telephone calls, music and audio streaming directly with hearing aid
• Directional microphone: Focuses on the sounds in front of the wearer, helping to hear in noisy environments
• Feedback: Prevents the whistling or buzzing sounds
• Noise reduction: Reduces background noise for clearer sound
• Rechargeable batteries or batteries with a long lifespan:: Eliminates the need for frequent battery changes
• Chair lift:: Improves hearing in places with induction loop systems (public places that can transmit sound directly to hearing aid), such as theaters and airports
• Volume control:: Allows users to easily adjust the noise level
• Water resistance:: Protects against humidity and perspiration damage
• Wireless connectivity: Allows connection to smartphones, televisions and other devices

How to take care of your hearing aids

Appropriate care is crucial to maintaining the performance and longevity of your hearing aids. Here are some general tips:

• Regularly clean your hearing aids with a soft cloth.
• Check the batteries with a battery tester and replace them in case of low.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance.
• Keep them dry and store them in a safe and clean place when not used.
• Store the batteries in a safe place far from young children.

Summary

Hearing aids are available in various styles, each designed to accommodate different types and degrees of hearing loss. Whether you choose a discreet style in the channel or a more durable ear model, it is important to select the one that meets your needs.

With appropriate care, hearing aids can considerably improve your hearing and your quality of life. Consult a professional to find the best hearing aid for you.