TYPES OF HEARING AIDS
There are only two types of hearing aids
Despite the numerous options of hearing aids, they are really only two distinct categories:
The behind the ear (BTE) and the in the ear (ITE).
We will discuss the differences and benefits of both styles of hearing aids.
BTE Hearing Aids (Behind-the-ear)
Mini BTE (Behind the Ear)
A mini BTE is the smallest BTE hearing aid available. With a number of interchangeable ear tips maximum airflow and comfort can be achieved.
RIC (Receiver-in-canal)
Using a wire to deliver the information, a speaker is built into the end of the earbud. Due to their small size, they are nearly invisible. This type of hearing aid is the most common and the most comfortable.
BTE (Behind the ear) with Earmolds
BTE with custom created ear molds are the best choice with more extreme hearing loss and when more power is needed.
ITE (In-the-ear) Hearing Aids
IIC (Invisible-in-the-canal)
Sitting deep within the ear canal, IIC devices are the smallest hearing aids on the market and are nearly invisible to the naked eye.
CIC (Completely in the Canal)
Completely in the canal hearing aids are slightly larger than the IICs. Their larger size allows a wider variety of electronics to be fitted inside, thus giving more control and functionality.
ITC (In-the-canal) or Half Shell:
The ITC or half-shell is larger and can give you functionality such as directional microphones volume controls and a larger battery. As the name suggests the half-shell fills half of the bowl of the ear.
ITE (In-the-ear) or Full Shell
The ITE or full shell hearing aid, fills the entire outer bowl of the ear. This is generally for people with more pronounced hearing loss. Its larger size makes it easier to handle with people with limited manual dexterity or vision problems.
Bluetooth Hearing Aids with Wireless Connectivity
Modern hearing aids can connect to a number of devices via Bluetooth. Whether it is watching TV, listening to the radio or working on the computer, you can get the benefit of a prescriptive hearing aid.
Hearing aids and smartphones
The Bluetooth wireless connectivity allows your hearing aid to connect directly to a smartphone. This option allows a discreet way to precisely control your hearing aid and create custom hearing settings.
Communicating by phone is critical in today's society, something denied to the hard of hearing. Depending on your phone model, you can stream phone calls directly to your hearing aids.
In addition, using the prescriptive fitting of your hearing aids, you can listen to music, podcasts or audiobooks directly from your phone.