Hearing aids are small electronic devices that amplify sound and help those with hearing loss. There are different types of hearing aids, which vary in size, shape, and how they are worn. Hearing aids are best fitted and programmed by an audiologist, an expert who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and providing hearing devices to patients.
There are many different types of hearing aids. Here, we will talk about the most commonly prescribed hearing aids and their specifications.
Information About the Different Types of Hearing Aids
Hearing aids come in a variety of types, and patients now have many choices in terms of shapes, sizes, styles, and features. They can be completely invisible, or they can be large and visible. There are also hearing aids that fit behind the ear, in the ear canal, or in the middle of the ear.
Completely in the Canal (CIC)
The CIC hearing aid is the smallest and most inconspicuous type of hearing aid available. It fits completely inside the ear canal, making it virtually invisible to others.
- Its location in the ear canal provides great amplification of sound.
- Because it’s so small, a CIC hearing aid also provides a high degree of discretion.
- CICs use either an open or closed dome design, depending on the size and shape of your ear canal.
- These hearing aids may build up the earwax.
- It may be difficult to remove and reload the battery.
- It tends to have a shorter battery life than other types.
- CICs can help patients with mild to moderate hearing loss.
In the Canal (ITC)
ITC hearing aids are small and fit snugly in the ear canal. They are less visible than other types of hearing aids, making them a good choice for people who are concerned about their appearance.
- ITC hearing aids provide good sound quality and can be adjusted to amplify different frequencies, depending on the user’s needs.
- Similar to the CICs, these tend to have a shorter battery life, however, the bigger size allows for more configurations and settings.
- In the canal hearing aids may give the sensation of something being stuck in the ear.
- ITCs can be the solution for a wide range of hearing loss.
Behind the Ear (BTE)
BTE hearing aids are most commonly prescribed to patients and can address the full spectrum of hearing loss. BTEs are composed of a tube that routes sound into the ear canal.
- One of the advantages of BTE hearing aids is being easier to put on and take off.
- They tend to be highly durable and have greater amplification.
- BTEs have longer battery life and are the only type that is rechargeable.
- May come with wireless connectivity and is more likely to have advanced technology.
- Some people find that BTE hearing aids can be uncomfortable to wear.
- BTEs may cause feedback or whistling sounds.
Hearing Aids in Georgetown, TX
Georgetown ENT’s audiologist Abeda Mueed is dedicated to protecting and improving your hearing. Hearing aids require no surgery and are a very effective treatment for hearing loss, improving your quality of life. We offer a wide range of types of hearing aids, and our audiologist will help you decide on the right one for you, as well as teach you how to use your hearing aid properly. To schedule an appointment, call our ENT clinic at (512) 869-0604 or use our convenient online request form.
