As social beings, we rely on our sense of hearing, along with our other senses, to survive and thrive— so much so that losing it can greatly affect our interpersonal relationships and sense of well-being,
If you’re on this page because your hearing is starting to deteriorate and you want to read up on hearing aids, particularly whether they can reverse your problem, the information below can provide you with what you need to know.
How Do Hearing Aids Work?
Hearing aids are small, battery-operated devices that are essentially designed to – not restore your hearing back to normal, but instead – improve your hearing, make communication and interactions with the people around you easier, and in turn, enhance your quality of life.
Hearing aids have three important parts, as outlined below:
- A microphone, which picks up the sound from your environment and converts it into digital signals;
- An amplifier, which increases or “amplifies” the strength of the signals;
- A speaker (sometimes called a receiver), which converts the amplified signals into sound waves and delivers them to your ears.
The Different Types of Hearing Aids
The following are the most common types of hearing aids. Which type is suitable for you depends on the degree of your hearing loss as well as your personal preferences. Your ENT doctor will determine the appropriate type after they carry out a thorough assessment.
- Completely in the Canal (CIC)
This type is the smallest and less noticeable, as it sits deep in your ear canal. Automated and ergonomically shaped, CIC devices are especially beneficial if you are older and have mild or moderate hearing loss.
Their wee size, however, is their major drawback. CIC hearing aids are powered by tiny batteries, which tend to have a short life. Additionally, since they completely fit inside the ear canal, they can get easily clogged with moisture and earwax.
- In the Canal (ITC)
This type also fits in the ear canal, although not as deep as the CIC type. The slightly larger size of ITCs allows for additional features, such as volume controls and directional microphones.
ITC hearing aids, however, also have small batteries and short battery life, and they require a certain level of dexterity, as they’re also not very easy to handle.
- In the Ear (ITE)
Larger than the ITC type, ITE hearing aids are noticeable and have slightly larger batteries and better battery life. ITEs fit in the outer portion of your ear, and thus, are sensitive to wind noise.
ITEs are often recommended for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss. ITEs come in two designs: half shell (fit in the lower half of your ear) and full shell (fits in the entire “bowl” of your ear).
- Behind the Ear (BTE)
BTE hearing aids are the most popular type. This is ascribed to their versatility: they can be used by people of all ages – infants to adults – with mild to profound hearing loss.
The device is exactly what it sounds: it rests behind your ear. It comes with a tubing, which connects and sends amplified sound to an earpiece (also called ear mold) that fits in your ear canal.
Hearing Aid Doctor Near Me in Georgetown, TX
At Georgetown ENT, our team includes a board-certified ENT doctor and a clinical audiologist who work hand in hand to provide hope and comprehensive care for people living with all types of hearing problems.
To get to the bottom of your hearing loss, our team will conduct a hearing evaluation. Should hearing aid be necessary for your case, they will gladly help you weigh your options and recommend the best one based on your unique needs and preferences.
Arrange a consultation today. Call our staff at (512) 869-0604 or use our appointment request form. We’re eager to help you hear better and live better!
