Think hearing aid, and most people will picture one of the chunky over-the-ear styles like their grandparents might have worn some years ago. However, most hearing aids aren’t like that anymore. Nowadays there is a big range of different hearing aid styles and some of them are pretty much invisible. Many of them have really useful features that allow them to seamlessly connect with your audio devices. Bring on hassle free hearing!
We’ve put together a list of hearing aid types and their features so you can have a clearer idea of what’s on the market and figure out your perfect hearing aid. Of course, you’ll need to talk it over with your Audiologist too. They’ll be able to help you pick the right aid based on your hearing loss type and your day to day hearing needs.
Invisible-In-Canal (IIC) hearing aids
These devices are so tiny, nobody will be able to see them. They sit inside your ear where they can’t be seen. They even come in a range of colors to make sure they’re camouflaged. IIC hearing aids work for mild to moderate hearing loss.
Completely-In-Canal (CIC) hearing aids
OK, a tiny part of this hearing aid can be seen in your ear, but you’d have to be looking for it to notice it. These CIC aids are a little easier to use than the IIC aids because they have a tiny handle attached to get them in and out. Like the IICs they come in a range of skin tone colors and they work well for people with mild to moderate hearing loss.
In-The-Canal (ITC) hearing aids
You can see some of this hearing aid in your ear but it’s still really discreet. These custom fit aids are a good choice for people with mild to severe hearing loss. They’re skin colored and easy to get in and out. As the ITC aids work for a wider range of hearing loss, they’re a good option for people whose hearing keeps changing.
In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
Yes, you can see these hearing aids. They’re molded to fit the entrance of your ear canal. However, the aids can be matched to your skin tone so they’re still super discreet. They work well for people with severe hearing loss and are really comfortable to wear.
Receiver-In-Canal (RIC) hearing aids
Often the choice of first-time hearing aid wearers, these aids are small and easy to fit.
They’re barely visible, sitting inside your ear canal. They have minimal distortion, a comfortable fit and work well for people with mild to moderate hearing loss.
Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
Remember the type of aids we described at the beginning? That’s the BTE design. They’re now smaller and sleeker, and sit comfortably behind your ear whilst a clear plastic acoustical tube sends sound to an earmold inside your ear canal. These can be the right choice for people with moderate to severe hearing loss. Plus, they’re easy to use with the buttons included on the casing behind your ear.
Ready to choose your new hearing aids?
Your Audiologist will help you to understand all the ins and outs of the different types of hearing aids available for your type of hearing loss. They’ll show you the right way to use and maintain them and be there to support you when you need help.
If you need advice on which hearing aids to choose, our team at The Hearing Center of Dublin ENT can help you. Call us today on 478-272-8382 to find out how.
