Types and styles of hearing aids – which device should you choose?

Hearing aids are essential for millions of Americans. Thanks to them, people lead fulfilling and happy lives, regardless of hearing problems. Therefore, it is a serious choice when it comes to deciding a particular  model.

Your comfort and style will have a lot to do with your decision. There are many different hearing aids on the market today, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed.  I will go into detail on the main hearing aid types and styles, their pros and cons, so that you can choose the most convenient and effective device!

The main hearing aid types and styles

What do most people look for  when choosing a hearing aid? It is often its size, color, technology and design.  Although the stigma of hearing loss has come a long way, most Americans are still reluctant to flaunt their hearing devices and tend to opt for smaller hearing devices that blend in with their hair or skin color.

This is especially true for young people. However, when choosing a hearing aid, not only the appearance but also its functionality is a very important factor. In the end, you want to look good and hear great.

All major manufacturers produce two main types of devices based on these criteria:

• In The Ear (ITE) hearing aids
• Behind The Ear (BTE) hearing aids

Let’s take a closer look at them.

In The Ear (ITE) hearing aids

ITE devices are placed directly in the ear canal, depending on the style of the model. The audiologist can select the most suitable device by taking a custom ear impression.  This device sits in the bowl of your ear.  It is usually made to match your skin color and it is suitable for more significant hearing losses as well as those with limited dexterity.

In The Canal (ITC) hearing aids. These devices are placed in the lower part of the auricle, and their size is slightly smaller than the ITE.  This device will still have room for specific features that will benefit your hearing.

Completely In The Canal (CIC) and well as Invisible-In-Canal (IIC)hearing aids. These are the smallest devices on the market, making them great for people who want to remain discreet when it comes to hearing loss.  Some of the more advanced features that are now available in hearing aids, such as Bluetooth would most likely be lost in these devices due to their small size and deep fit in the ear canal.

It’s worth noting that ITE models are great at dealing with mild to moderate hearing loss. Feel free to choose this type of device if you have been diagnosed with a similar problem. You will not regret it!

Behind The Ear (BTE) hearing aids

The BTE type of device is suitable for people of all ages and with any degree of hearing loss. Hearing aids sit at the very top of your rear, with a portion of it being behind the ear and another part that extends into the ear canal.  These devices come in many different colors to match hair, skin or just a personal favorite color that you may have.

A BTE style of devices can have a great amount of power for those with very significant loss and will utilize a custom earmold to be coupled into the ear.  Latest BTE models will have connectivity options to the phone making it easier for the individual to communicate.

Receiver In The Canal (RIC) hearing aids. It is the most common type of device and has become very common for people to use.  You get high-quality sound from the speaker located directly in the canal. These devices have additional features that vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. For example, a wireless connection to the phone, rechargeable batteries, and so on.

Using hearing aids in everyday life will allow you to forget about previously experienced problems, and return joy to life. You’ll no longer encounter difficulties in communicating with people and will be able to spend more time with loved ones.

Which hearing aid brands have the best reputation?

Our extensive experience at Audiology Island shows that when choosing a hearing aid, you should pay particular attention to the type, style, and especially the manufacturer. It determines not only the capabilities of the device but also it’s quality and usability.

Every American strives to get a quality product at a reasonable price. The hearing aid should work as long as possible and not disturb the user with constant breakdowns.

Considering all the pros and cons of various device models, our leading audiologist, Dr. Stella Fulman, compiled a list of major hearing aid manufacturers:

• Oticon
• Phonak
• ReSound
• Signia
• Starkey

These are great manufacturers with an excellent reputation around the world. Their devices differ from many others in excellent quality, wide functionality, and reasonable price.

How do I choose the right hearing aid?

Don’t be discouraged if your hearing suddenly deteriorates. As you can see there are many options but with the help of the right professional you will find the right solution.  We are always happy to provide a proper diagnosis and consultation at Audiology Island to address your hearing needs!

The level of hearing loss can be different for each person. Therefore, the choice of hearing aid requires an individual approach with appropriate testing and diagnosis.

Our hearing care professionals have been helping people for many years by choosing the right hearing aids. We have extensive experience in this matter. Our clinic has the highest rating and many positive reviews by our patients.

Hearing is a quality of life issue.  We will never tire of hearing from our patients and their families how much of a role the right hearing device plays in giving them back their quality of life!