Types of Hearing Aids - A Breakdown of Options for Every Hearing Loss

Hearing aids come in different designs, styles, and functionalities, catering to a variety of patients. With this, choosing the best hearing aid machine requires a better understanding of the types of hearing aids, and that which aligns with your hearing needs, lifestyle, and personal preferences becomes important. In this guide, let us explore the most common types of hearing aids, their features, and how they will help you make an informed decision.

Behind-the-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids

BTE hearing aids rest behind the outer ear and are connected to an earmold inside the ear canal through a small tube. They are well-suited for a range of hearing losses, from mild to profound. These devices are known for their durability and ability to house powerful technology.

Features:
● Durability and Power: BTE hearing aids are capable of catering to more powerful amplifiers and larger batteries, making them ideal for people with severe hearing loss.
● Wide Range of Features: Most BTE models have advanced features like Bluetooth connectivity, directional microphones, and noise reduction that give the best hearing experience.
● Easy Handling: BTE models are larger in size. The larger size makes it easier to handle, especially for people suffering from limited hearing experience or vision issues.

Considerations:
● Visibility: The larger size makes BTE hearing aids more visible than other styles.
● Moisture and Feedback Issues: BTE devices are made of advanced technology. This technology helps in handling moisture build-up and feedback issues from time to time.

Receiver-in-the-Ear (RITE) or Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) Hearing Aids

RITE or RIC hearing aids are an advanced version of the BTE style, with the receiver placed inside the ear canal rather than behind the ear. This leads to a more discreet appearance and better sound quality for users with mild or severe hearing loss.

Features:
● Natural Sound Quality: The placement of the receiver in the ear canal delivers clearer, more natural sound. The machine further reduces external sound distortion.
● Discreet Design: RITE hearing aids are less visible than BTE models because there are thinner, transparent wires to connect the device to the ear canal.
● Customizable Fit: These hearing aids come in open-fit designs, making it more comfortable and less vulnerable to causing an occlusion effect (the sensation of a blocked ear).

Considerations:
● Maintenance Needs: RITE devices are more vulnerable to earwax buildup as it is placed in the receiver of the canal. Regularly maintaining and cleaning the device will keep it functioning properly.
● Shorter Battery Life: This type of hearing aid machine has a shorter battery life and requires frequent battery replacement.

In-the-Ear (ITE) Hearing Aids

ITE hearing aids are among the best types of hearing aids that fit entirely within the outer portion of the ear, making them less conspicuous than BTE or RITE devices. They are custom-made to fit into each wearer’s ear and are best suited for individuals with mild to moderate hearing impairment.

Features:
● Custom-Made Fit: ITE hearing aids are crafted meticulously for every wearer, making sure it fits properly without any difficulty.
● Larger Components for Better Control: These devices are large enough to accommodate manual controls, such as volume adjustment and program buttons. This makes it user-friendly.
● Powerful Amplification: Despite their smaller size compared to BTE models, ITE hearing aids still provide substantial amplification and can include various advanced features.

Considerations:
● Visible in the Ear: Although they are less conspicuous than BTE machines, ITE hearing aids are still clearly visible to others' naked eye.
● Prone to Damage: Since they sit in the outer ear, ITE hearing aids are susceptible to damage through earwax and moisture. Due to this, regular maintenance is important.

Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC) Hearing Aids

Completely-in-the-canal or CIC devices sit deeper within the canal, making them among the least visible hearing aids available. These styles are specially for those individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss and those seeking a discreet ear machine.

Features:
● Almost Invisible: CIC hearing aids, in particular, are designed to be virtually invisible, making them a popular choice for those concerned with aesthetics.
● Reduced Wind Noise: They are placed deep within the ear canal, which helps in reducing the impact of external wind noise, thus improving the listening experience from an outside source.
● More Natural Sound: The proximity of the microphone to the eardrum can help provide a more natural sound quality.

Considerations:
● Handling and Battery Life: As the CIC machines are smaller, these aids can be a bit difficult to handle, especially for people with dexterity issues. Furthermore, smaller batteries are used which may require frequent replacement.
● Earwax Buildup: These devices are more vulnerable to earwax buildup, which affects their performance over time. Regular cleaning and caring are important in this case.

CROS and BiCROS Hearing Aids

CROS (Contralateral Routing of Signal) and BiCROS hearing aids are designed for individuals with hearing loss in one ear. These devices transmit sound from the non-hearing ear to the hearing ear, providing a sense of balanced hearing.

Features:
● Improved Spatial Awareness: One of the primary features of this machine is that it sends sounds from the non-hearing side for better hearing. CROS and BiCROS systems help detect sounds from all directions, which in turn improves spatial awareness and safety in everyday situations.
● Personalized Options: BiCROS systems offer better amplification for a better hearing experience. This is best suited for every individual’s specific needs.

Considerations:
● Adjustment Period: It may take time to adjust to hearing sounds from one side transmitted to the opposite ear.
● Battery Usage: Operating two hearing aids, especially with BiCROS, leads to higher battery consumption.

Key Hearing Aid Features to Enhance Your Listening Experience

When selecting the best hearing aid machine, consider specific hearing aid features that can improve your overall experience. Advanced hearing aids come with customizable settings and options that are specially tailored for different environments and needs.
● Bluetooth Connectivity: Many modern hearing aids now feature Bluetooth capabilities, allowing users to connect their devices to smartphones, televisions, and other electronics for a seamless listening experience.
● Directional Microphones: These microphones help their users focus on sounds coming from a nearby source, mostly sound coming in front of them. This feature is extremely helpful in noisy environments.
● Noise Reduction Technology: This feature filters out background noise, making conversations seamlessly better and clearer, especially if the wearer is in a crowded place.
● Rechargeable Batteries: Some new hearing aid models have rechargeable batteries that remove the need for constant battery replacement and are more eco-friendly.

The Wide Range of Hearing Aid Uses

Hearing aids are more than an amplifier of sounds. Hearing aid uses improve overall communication, thus increasing the quality of life and contributing to cognitive health. Additionally, untreated hearing loss leads to social isolation, depression, and mental decline. Addressing hearing issues with the best hearing aid machine available helps prevent these issues and leads to an engaged life.

Where to Buy Hearing Aids?

When looking to buy hearing aids, first consult a licensed audiologist to get the right type of hearing loss. Hearing aids are always available at a medical equipment store. Make sure the hearing aid machine fits you well, is easily adjustable, and has follow-up care.

FAQs

How often should I get my hearing aids serviced or checked?

Hearing aids should be checked regularly or at least once a year by a professional audiologist. Frequent check-ups ensure that the hearing aids are functioning smoothly. Also, checking for any adjustments or potential repairs can improve performance. Furthermore, if you experience any significant changes in hearing or notice any malfunction, immediate action needs to be taken.

How long does it take to adjust to wearing hearing aids?

Adjusting to hearing aids varies as per individual needs. On average, it takes a few weeks to a few months. During the adjustment period, sounds may be too loud or unnatural. With this, users might need to increase the time they use the device every day. Keep following up with appointments with the audiologist. This will help in fine-tuning the settings for better comfort during this period.

What should I do if my hearing aids cause discomfort or irritation?

If your hearing aids cause discomfort or irritation, stop wearing them for the time being or consult the audiologist. Discomfort will often lead to an improper fit, earwax buildup, or an allergic reaction to the materials. Custom-made adjustments to new earmolds will be required for a better fit. Keeping your ears and hearing aids clean will reduce the irritation.

Can hearing aids be upgraded with new technology over time?

While hearing aids cannot upgrade all by themselves, there are new updates or features coming up in the new models. This new feature or upgrade improves the functionality and adds minor enhancements. However, if there are significant advancements in hearing aid technology, there might be a need to purchase a new device. Consulting an audiologist will ensure that the hearing aid machine is up to date as per the current needs.