Hearing aids are invaluable for people who have suffered some kind of hearing loss. They may not fully restore someone’s hearing, but they can improve their quality of life and make sounds louder and much clearer.
There are several types of hearing aids. The type you are given will depend on your needs. Let’s look at the main ones.
BTE Hearing Aids
Behind the ear (BTE) hearing aids are fitted where you’d expect. They are very easy to use and, therefore, the most common hearing aids. Children with hearing loss typically have BTE hearing aids, as they are even suitable for babies. BTE hearing aids can be hidden by hair but are visible otherwise. They are available in different colours, which makes them popular with children, who like the option of personalising their hearing devices.
ITE Hearing Aids
In the ear (ITE) hearing aids are fitted just outside the main ear opening and fill that area. Because they extrude from the ear, they are visible from the side unless hidden by long hair, but not from behind. Some people find ITE hearing aids difficult to use. ITE hearing aids are often skin coloured to make them more invisible. They must be custom-fitted to the user – click here to learn more about ITE hearing aids Bolton.
RTE Hearing Aids
Receiver in the ear (RTE) hearing aids have a small piece that sits behind the ear and is connected to a speaker inside the ear opening. The component that sits behind the ear is not as visible as BTE hearing aids, but some people find RTE hearing aids difficult to use.
ITC Hearing Aids
In the canal (ITC) hearing aids are small and less visible, as they sit inside the ear opening. The downside of this type of hearing aid is that it isn’t as powerful as the ones above, so won’t be suitable for people with more severe hearing loss.
There are also tiny hearing aids called ‘invisible in the canal’ (IIC) and ‘completely in the canal’ (CIC). Both of these are small and very discreet, but they aren’t suitable for people with bad hearing loss and are difficult to use.
Choosing the Right Hearing Aids
Several factors matter when choosing hearing aids. The first is your level of hearing loss, which will be determined by an audiologist. As mentioned, some types of hearing aids are unsuitable for people with greater hearing loss. If you have mild hearing loss, any type of hearing aid will be suitable, but if you have profound hearing loss, there are far fewer options.
Budget is something to take into account. Think about the features you need from your hearing aids. Thanks to modern hearing aid technology, there are now devices that can connect to smartphones and tablets, as well as a TV. This is worth discussing with your audiologist, as it can make life a lot easier. Style and comfort matter too. Do you want hearing aids that are discreet or something with longer battery life?
Speak to your audiologist for all the details about hearing aids. They’ll be able to advise you on what’s right for your needs.
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