Hearing loss is an extremely common underlying symptom that affects over one billion people across the world, but only 17% of the people who would benefit from a hearing aid decide to get professional help. At the same time, hearing aids have constantly been developing since they first became available on the market at the beginning of the 20th century. 

Today, you can count on cutting-edge technologies and extremely durable constructions that can be your partner in most everyday activities. Of course, picking the right type of hearing aid for your needs can be intimidating and a booking appointment with your audiologist is the only way that will help you put your doubts to rest. However, if you are getting ready for your upcoming appointment, you can find an overview of the most common types of hearing aids below. 

Picking the best type of hearing aid for your needs

When you are looking for the most suitable hearing aid types for your needs, there is no one-size-fits-all formula that you can refer to make a decision. Instead, several factors come into play and allow you to make the right choice. Of course, your audiologist will talk you through the different kinds and guide you towards the right choice. 

However, some of the factors to consider include:

  • The severity of your hearing loss: Some hearing devices are simply not powerful enough to counterbalance your hearing loss. 
  • Both ears are affected: Bilateral hearing aids can help the ears send more natural signals to the brain and offer you a more comfortable effect.
  • Lifestyle needs: If you are an active person, you might look for minimal hearing aids secured to your ear. However, if you have mobility or dexterity issues, larger devices are easier to handle. 

Factors such as your budget and how long you need the battery to last might also influence your decision.

The different types of hearing aids

If you are preparing yourself to see your audiologist, it can be a good idea to research the different types of hearing aids available. This will help you arrive at your appointment prepared and be more involved in the decision. Here are the three main groups of hearing aids – your audiologist will illustrate every model within these categories.

In the ear (ITE) discrete and efficient

ITE devices are small computers encased in a hard body that sits on the outer bowl. They are usually discreet and comfortable, and they can help you better deal with a wide range of hearing loss, from mild to severe. 

ITE devices usually boast a body large enough to guarantee you different functionalities such as:

  • Volume control
  • Directional microphones
  • Protection from wind noise
  • Telecoils: A magnetic coil that helps the device receive sounds directly to its internal circuits rather than on the microphones. It can improve hearing in public facilities.
  • Background noise reduction 

In the canal (ITC) and completely in canal (CIC): the virtually invisible hearing aid

ITC and CIC hearing devices are among the smallest types of hearing aids and fit in the ear canal rather than in the bowl. These hearing devices are suitable for most kinds of hearing loss ranges, from moderate to severe. The entire seal of the canal can be put in place and removed through a small cord. 

Since their body is extremely small, they offer only automated features and fewer functionalities compared to other devices. Indeed, you might not find volume controls and directional microphones on these devices. Additionally, their battery won’t last as long as one of the larger hearing aids. Nonetheless, these devices are loved for their versatility and minimalist design.

Behind the ear (BTE) powerful and long-lasting

BTE are the most visible type of hearing aids, but they are also the most powerful ones. They are composed of the main body that sits behind the ear and a receiver that sits in the canal. Depending on the kind of hearing device you have, the two components will be connected by a small tube or a hard-plastic connector. 

If you are looking to benefit from the functionalities of BTEs, but find them too cumbersome, the new open-fit models might be more suitable for your needs. In these devices, only a narrow tube will reach the canal, which means that it can remain open and allow low-frequency sounds to come in. This makes noises sound more natural, making it easier for individuals to adapt to wearing a hearing aid.

Find the hearing aid for your needs at Audiology and Hearing Aid Center. 

Deciding to visit an audiologist and find the best type of hearing aid for your needs is an important step towards regaining your hearing and making the most of any important moment in your life. Book an appointment at Audiology and Hearing Aid Center or call us at (920) 486-6922 to consult an audiologist and understand more about the different types of hearing solutions available.