Types of Hearing Aids-Different Options Available Based On Your Individual Needs

Hearing impaired individuals have a number of different types of hearing aids to select from based on their individual needs.  The general rule of thumb is the smaller the hearing aid, the more expensive it is.  The in the ear (ITE) model is a large size hearing aid. 

This hearing aid is designed for people with varying degrees of hearing loss from mild to severe.  It fills the entire center of the ear.  The ITE hearing aid is almost impossible to hide, however it has a long battery life and it works with a directional microphone and other accessories.

The in the canal (ITC) types of hearing aids are only effective for people with mild to moderate hearing loss.  This hearing aid is specifically designed to fit the shape and size of an individual’s ear canal.  This hearing aid is almost invisible, however because it is so small, it is hard to change the battery and make adjustments to the device. 

A few ITC hearing aids have a remote control that adjusts the settings remotely rather than trying to adjust them with your hands.  These hearing aids tend to cause feedback for the user due to the fact that the receiver and microphone are very close to each other.

The completely in the canal (CIC) types of hearing aids are similar to the ITC type in that it is only effective for people with mild to moderate hearing loss.  It is a lot smaller than the ITC type of hearing aid. This hearing aid is so tiny that it cannot be removed from you ear with your fingers.  To remove the hearing aid, you need grab onto the tiny wire and pull it out of your ear. 

Like the ITC type, this hearing aid is difficult to detect.  It is a challenge to change the battery and adjust the settings due to its tiny size.  Both the ITC and CIC types are much more costly than the larger ITE hearing aid.

The behind the ear (BTE) types of hearing aids are effective in helping all hearing impaired individuals from those with mild loss to those with severe loss of hearing.  The large part of the hearing aid fits right behind the ear.  It has a clear tube that is attached to a smaller piece that fits inside the ear.  This is a full strength hearing aid that is also adjustable.

But, it is very noticeable because of its large size and clear tubing on the outside of the ear.  This is a very popular type of hearing aid for children.  There is a newer version of the BTE type called the behind the ear open fit.  This new type is so tiny that it is very difficult to detect. 

A very small device sits right behind the ear and has a small clear tube that attaches to another tiny device inside the ear.  This hearing aid is only effective for people with mild hearing loss.