Exploring The Pros and Cons of Hearing Aid Styles

Hearing aids have come a long way in recent years, offering a lifeline to anyone with hearing loss. While the primary goal of these devices is to improve hearing, the variety of hearing aid styles available today allows you to choose one that aligns with your comfort, lifestyle, and hearing needs. 

Behind-the-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids

BTE hearing aids are still one of the most common hearing aid styles. They’re suitable for various degrees of hearing loss, from mild to profound, making them very versatile. Their somewhat larger size allows for robust components, making BTE hearing aids less prone to moisture and dust damage. BTE devices also offer easy maintenance. The larger size also means they’re easier to clean and maintain, with larger batteries that are easier to handle.

So what’s not to love? BTE hearing aids are more visible than some other styles, as they rest behind the ear. Outdoor activities can also lead to wind noise since the microphone is located on the exterior of the device.

Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) Hearing Aids

RIC hearing aids are lightweight and sit comfortably behind the ear with a thin wire leading to the ear canal. These comfortable devices offer natural sound quality since the receiver sits in the ear canal. They’re also less prone to feedback or whistling due to their design.

RIC devices may need some additional maintenance, as the thin wire between the components may require replacement over time. RIC hearing aids are still somewhat visible.

In-the-Ear (ITE) Hearing Aids

ITE hearing aids offer a comfortable, custom fit. These devices are custom-molded. They are less visible than BTE models since they fit directly inside the ear, and ITE hearing aids often have easy-to-use controls and buttons for adjusting settings.

However, the smaller size means smaller batteries, which can require more frequent changes. ITE models may have fewer features and less processing power than some other styles. Finally, they can be more susceptible to moisture and wax buildup due to their placement inside the ear.

In-the-Canal (ITC) and Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC) Hearing Aids

These are the least visible hearing aids available, with ITC models partially in the ear canal and CIC models completely concealed. These hearing aids use the natural shape of the outer ear to direct sound to the devices, offering a more natural sound experience. These are also ideal for individuals who prefer a discreet hearing aid style.

One of the drawbacks of this model is its smaller size. CIC hearing aids are not as powerful as other styles and may not be suitable for individuals with severe hearing loss. Small size also means shorter battery life and smaller batteries, which can be challenging to handle.

What Hearing Aid Features Do You Need?

In addition to considering hearing aid styles, take some time to think about the features that are available with many modern hearing aids:

• Directional Microphones: Many hearing aids feature directional microphones, which can improve speech understanding in noisy environments.
• Telecoils: Telecoils enable users to connect wirelessly to loop systems in public places.
• Noise Reduction: Hearing aids often include noise reduction features that reduce background noise, enhancing speech clarity.
• Feedback Cancellation: Feedback or whistling sounds are minimized or eliminated in modern hearing aids.
• Rechargeable Batteries: Some models offer rechargeable batteries, eliminating the need for regular battery changes.

Choosing the Right Hearing Aid Style

Are you ready to find your perfect hearing aids? Here are a few things to consider:

• Degree of Hearing Loss: The severity of hearing loss plays a significant role in determining the appropriate style. For severe or profound hearing loss, BTE or RIC models are often recommended.
• Lifestyle and Activities: Consider your daily activities and environments. If you lead an active lifestyle, you may prefer a style that offers better durability and wind noise protection.
• Cosmetic Preferences: Some people prioritize discretion and opt for smaller, less visible styles like CIC or ITC hearing aids.
• Dexterity: If you have difficulty handling small objects or changing tiny batteries, larger styles may be more suitable.
• Budget: Your budget is another crucial factor. Hearing aid costs vary depending on the style and features, so it’s essential to find a balance between your needs and budget.

A Sound Decision for Better Hearing

Choosing the right hearing aid style is a personal decision that depends on individual needs and preferences. Book a consultation today to learn more! We have hearing aid styles to match every hearing need.