Hearing loss is the third most common chronic physical condition in the United States. If you are one of the millions who experience hearing loss, hearing aids are often the best solution for managing the issue and improving your quality of life. With so many different hearing aids on the market, it can feel like navigating a minefield. Whether your hearing loss has already been confirmed or not, an audiologist is the best person to ensure that the best product is selected for your specific needs.
Before booking an appointment with your audiologist, though, it’s worth familiarizing yourself with the main categories and styles. Here’s all you need to know.
What Are the Most Common Hearing Aid Styles?
When getting hearing aids for the first time, it’s useful to know that your audiologist will guide you through the entire process. This includes selecting the right style and advanced features, as well as the subsequent fittings appointments. While there are many models and manufacturers, hearing aids come in three main styles, behind the ear (BTE), in the ear (ITE) and in the canal (ITC).
BTE hearing aids
BTE devices are the type that most people see in their mind when picturing hearing aids. However, technology has evolved at a rapid rate in recent years. Nowadays, the devices are more compact and discreet than ever before. BTE hearing aids include a shell that sits behind the ear. This will have a microphone and speaker system, as well as a battery. It hooks over the ear and is connected to a custom earmold that sits inside the ear via a tube.
This type of hearing aid is suitable for all degrees of hearing loss from mild to profound, although users will need some dexterity to place it properly in the ear and use the various settings. BTEs are also known for their low maintenance and affordability. They are also ideal for any user who wants to avoid having their hearing aid directly touch the ear canal.
ITE hearing aids
ITE hearing aids are a type of hearing aid where the entire device is inserted into the ear and does not require any parts behind the ear. This style is often used by individuals who have lower dexterity. ITE hearing aids are split into two main types. Full-shell ITEs take up the entire ear while half-shell ITEs fit the lower portion of the outer ear. Custom-molded ITE devices are designed specifically to match the user’s ear for added comfort.
Due to the fact that they sit snugly in the ear, in-the-ear hearing aids are very effective at avoiding whistling noises and wind disturbances. Advanced models can also feature white noise to help mask tinnitus. Generally speaking, ITEs are best suited to people with mild-to-severe hearing loss.
ITC hearing aids
ITC hearing aids are the most inconspicuous because they sit deeper in the ear than their ITE counterparts. This makes them a very popular choice for anyone who wants a discreet solution, perhaps due to hearing loss at a younger age. They are smaller and subsequently a little harder to handle. Likewise, the batteries don’t tend to last as long. However, they are very comfortable and can be easily adjusted to suit personal fitting preferences.
ITC hearing aids can also feature advanced features like Bluetooth or playing music. However, they are only suitable for users with mild-to-moderately-severe hearing loss. Cleaning can be somewhat tricky too if you have dexterity issues. This particular style is also available in completely-in-canal (CIC) and invisible-in-canal (IIC) options.
Prescription vs. Over-the-Counter (OTC) Hearing Aids
<p>While prescription hearing aids are the most popular option, over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids recently became available in 2022. OTC devices enable people who suspect that they have mild hearing loss to <a href=”https://welistenwehelp.com/hearing-aid-products/”>buy hearing aids</a> without the help of a licensed professional. While they are regulated by the FDA, OTCs have many limitations when compared to prescription devices, including:</p>
- Many patients underestimate how severe their hearing loss has become.
- Even when hearing loss is mild, OTCs won’t be fully customized to your specific hearing profile.
- Choosing OTCs means you could miss out on other issues an audiologist would spot.
Hearing aids have the power to help you reengage with the world around you, but that is dependent on finding the right device and fit! Working with an audiologist is the best way to ensure you get the technology you need to address your personal needs. If you’re ready to take the first steps, book a hearing test with one of our friendly team members at Professional Hearing Aid Associates by calling (785) 940-4101 today.
