Hearing aids are tools that improve speech and sound perception for those who have hearing loss. There are numerous varieties of hearing aids that each have their own benefits and drawbacks. For a person with hearing loss to properly communicate and lead a fulfilling life, choosing the right kind of hearing aid is essential. In this article, we’ll examine the many hearing aid varieties, their benefits and drawbacks, and the sorts of hearing loss each is most suited to.
What are different types of hearing aids?
Behind-The-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids
The most popular kind of hearing aids are BTEs. They are attached to an earmold or dome that rests inside the ear canal and are worn behind the ear. All degrees of hearing loss, from minor to profound, can be treated with BTE hearing aids. They are also simple to maintain and handle.
PROS
BTE hearing aids have the following benefits:
1. A comfortable fit for prolonged usage
2. More robust than different kinds of hearing aids
3. Compatible with a variety of accessories, including telecoils and FM systems
CONS
The drawbacks of BTE hearing aids, however, include:
1. Being slightly bigger in size, it might be visible, when worn over the ear.
2. When you’re outside, wind noise could be a problem in case of very strong winds blowing.
3. Since it is placed over the ear, using it along with a mask / glasses might pose a challenge for some.
In-The-Ear (ITE) Hearing Aids
ITE hearing aids are created to order and completely enclose the ear. They can be used for hearing loss ranging from mild to severe.
PROS
ITE hearing aids have the following benefits:
1. They are visually appealing since they are almost invisible.
2. Easy to use with a straightforward volume control
3. Since it is located inside the ear canal, it helps to reduces disturbing wind noise.
CONS
There are certain limitations of using ITE hearing aids, such as:
1. Battery life is reduced as a result of the battery’s smaller size.
2. Due to their positioning, they could cause ear canal discomfort or irritability for some people.
3. They are generally not advised for those who’s ears produce too much earwax or have ear canal difficulties.
Receiver-In-Canal (RIC) Hearing Aids
A tiny receiver for RIC hearing aids is positioned inside the ear canal and is connected to the device by a thin wire. They are appropriate for hearing loss that is mild to moderate.
PROS
These are some benefits of RIC hearing aids:
1. They are visually appealing since they are almost invisible.
2. Due to their small size and low weight, they are comfortable to wear.
3. The receiver’s proximity to the eardrum results in better sound quality.
CONS
The drawbacks of RIC hearing aids, however, include:
1. For people with dexterity concerns, it could be challenging to handle and the wire will be susceptible to breaking frequently.
2. Due to their positioning in the ear canal, ear canal may be more vulnerable to moisture damage.
3. They are not recommended for those who have a severe to profound hearing loss
Completely-In-Canal (CIC) Hearing Aids
CIC Hearing aids are created to order, as per the ear impression of the person and they completely enclose the ear canal. They are most appropriate for hearing loss that is mild to moderate.
PROS
Among the many benefits of CIC hearing aids, some of them are:
1. They are visually appealing since they are almost invisible. So they are most suitable for people, looking for discreet hearing aids.
2. They are extremely discrete and easy to wear, since they are designed as per individual’s ear impression, they tend to be most comfortable.
3. Given there placement in the the ear canal, they tend to give forth a realistic sounding quality experience for the user.
CONS
The drawbacks of CIC hearing aids, however, include:
1. Battery life is reduced as a result of the battery’s smaller size. It has one of the smallest hearing aid batteries available in market.
2. Due to their positioning, they could cause ear canal discomfort or irritability, if not fitted properly or ear impressions taken is faulty.
3. They are not advised for people whose ear produce too much earwax or have ear canal difficulties.
Invisible-In-Canal (IIC) Hearing Aids
One of the most discreet hearing aid solutions on the market are invisible in the canal (IIC) devices. These hearing aids fit inside the ear canal, as the name implies, and are almost undetectable from the outside.
PROS
There are several benefits and advantages of using IIC Hearing Aids, some of them are:
1. IIC hearing aids’ greatest benefit is that they are practically undetectable. They are virtually undetectable since they are buried deep inside the ear canal.
2. Compared to other hearing aid kinds, IIC hearing aids can deliver a more natural sound experience since they are made to operate with the ear canal’s natural acoustics.
3. IIC hearing aids are built specifically to fit the specific contours of your ear canal, making them easy to wear for extended periods of time.
4. IIC hearing aids are a fantastic option for persons who spend a lot of time outside because they sit deep inside the ear canal and are less prone to pick up wind noise.
CONS
Even though they are most comfortable to use and wear, even IIC Hearing aids have some limitation, like:
1.IIC hearing aids contain fewer features than other hearing aid varieties because of their smaller size. They might not have telecoil technology or directional microphones, for instance.
2. IIC hearing aids are generally not recommended for those with severe hearing loss because they could not be powerful enough to offer the necessary amplification.
3. IIC hearing aids can be challenging to use for certain people, especially those with dexterity concerns, because they are small and rest deep inside the ear canal.
4. IIC hearing aids can be more expensive than other hearing aid varieties since they are built specifically to match the peculiar shape of your ear canal.
How can I know, which hearing aid is best suited for me?
It’s crucial to get the advice of a hearing aid specialist when it comes to selecting the best hearing aid. Hearing aid specialists have the expertise and knowledge required to guide you in choosing the best hearing aid for your unique needs. They can make tailored recommendations based on your hearing loss severity, way of life, and preferences. You can improve your overall quality of life by choosing a hearing aid that fulfils your needs and fits comfortably in your ear by consulting a hearing aid expert.
Click to download Free Guide – How to Choose the Right Hearing Aids?
Where can I find a hearing aid specialist?
We are a professional hearing aid center in Dwarka (Delhi) and Karnal (Haryana), providing comprehensive audiology services to individuals with hearing loss and related issues. Our trained audiologist does a thorough hearing assessment to determine the extent of your hearing loss and recommend the best course of treatment. We offer a wide range of hearing aids to suit all budgets and lifestyles, as well as tinnitus management. Our hearing aids program is designed to help you adjust to using your hearing aids and improve your overall hearing health. Come visit us today for a hearing test and experience the difference a dedicated hearing aid center can make in your life. We believe a proactive approach to hearing protection and offer a variety of options for you.
