What Do You Need to Know About Hearing Device Styles?

If you’re considering a hearing aid, you may be wondering what style is right for you. There are several different types of hearing aids available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Today we’re going to explain the different styles of hearing aids and some things to consider when choosing yours.

In-the-Ear (ITE) Hearing Aids

In-the-ear hearing aids are designed to fit snugly inside your outer ear bowl. ITE hearing aids are also less visible than other types of hearing aids, so they may be a good choice if you’re looking for a more discreet option.

Behind-the-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids

Behind-the-ear hearing aids fit over the top of your ear and rest behind it. This style is a good choice if you have mild-to-profound hearing loss. Behind-the-ear are the largest type of hearing aid, so if you have a very small ear, this style may not be right for you. Behind-the-ear hearing aids are also visible, so if you’re looking for a more discreet option, this may not be the best choice.

In-the-Canal (ITC)l Hearing Aids

In-the-canal hearing aids are made to fit in your ear canal so that they’re less visible than other types of hearing aids. This style is a good choice if you have mild-to-moderate hearing loss and want a more discreet option than a behind-the-ear style hearing aid. Because in-the-canal hearing aids are smaller than behind-the-ear styles, they can be difficult to handle and adjust, so this may not be the best choice if you have dexterity issues or vision problems.

Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) Hearing Aids

Receiver-in-canal hearing aids are custom-made to fit in your ear canal. They have a small receiver that sits in your ear canal and is connected to the main body of the hearing aid by a thin wire. This style is less visible than other types of hearing aids, so they may be a good choice if you’re looking for a more discreet option.

Completely-in-Canal (CIC) Hearing Aids

Completely-in-canal hearing aids are made to fit deep in your ear canal so that they’re almost invisible. This style is a good choice if you have mild-to-moderate hearing loss and want a very discreet option. Because completely-in-canal hearing aids are small, they can be difficult to handle and adjust, so this may not be the best choice if you have dexterity issues or vision problems.

Your Lifestyle

When choosing a hearing aid, it is important to consider your lifestyle. If you are active and participate in activities like sports or hiking, you will want a hearing aid that is durable and can withstand moisture. If you work in a noisy environment, you will want a hearing aid that can reduce background noise.

Hearing Loss

The type and severity of your hearing loss will also impact the type of hearing aid you choose. If you have mild hearing loss, you may be able to use a less visible hearing aid like an ITC or CIC. If you have severe hearing loss, you will likely need a BTE hearing aid.