What are the Most Common Hearing Aids?

Hearing aids are custom-made for those with hearing loss. They work by transmitting sounds to your brain through a microphone and amplifier. There are three main types of hearing aids: behind the ear (BTE), in the ear (ITE) and in the canal (ITC). There are different advantages of each, and an audiologist will be able to recommend the best option for you. 

Hearing aids are the most effective way to treat hearing loss, and with advances in technology, they’re now digitalized and can even connect with your smartphone. Here is an overview of the most common types of hearing aids.

Behind-the-ear hearing aids

BTE hearing aids sit behind your ear and a narrow tube is connected to an earpiece transmits sound into your ear canal. These are easy to handle and adjust, and very powerful. BTE hearing aids are capable of more amplification than other types. This means they’re suitable for patients with severe hearing loss. Although they’re worn outside the ear, they’re very discreet and comfortable. There are also newer micro-versions available. 

In-the-ear hearing aids

ITE hearing aids fit in your ear. They also cover a section the outer part of your ear, as opposed to ITC hearing aids which are more hidden in the ear canal. They may be slightly more visible, but the benefit of them being larger is that they include features that wouldn’t fit on smaller hearing aids, such as volume control. ITE hearing aids are ideal for people with mild-to-severe hearing loss. Newer models have plenty of advanced features such as automatic settings and wireless functions. You can even control them from your smartphone.

In-the-canal hearing aids

ITC hearing aids are also worn in the ear, but they fit neatly into the ear canal. This is particularly useful for glasses wearers, and they won’t get in the way of making phone calls. ITC hearing aids are custom-made to fit the wearer. An audiologist will take a mold of the inner ear using 3D imaging technology. 

The benefits of an ITC hearing aid are numerous. They are barely visible and very convenient. The flipside is that they’re better suited to those with mild-to-moderate hearing loss, as slightly less powerful than larger models. They are very intricate so can occasionally be challenging to adjust manually, but most models can be controlled using a smartphone or remote-control device. 

Where can I get more advice about hearing aids?

A professional audiologist will be able to provide you with detailed advice on all types of hearing aids. They will help you find the best solution for you and ensure you’re comfortable with whichever you choose. An audiologist will also be able to give you tips and advice on how to adjust to wearing a hearing aid and how to care for them. You’ll quickly get used to your new hearing aids and the benefits are numerous. You can also visit your audiologist for any necessary repairs or upgrades for your hearing aids, along with help and support.