Hearing aids are a vital tool for millions of people with hearing loss. They can improve communication, increase self-confidence, and enhance the overall quality of life. However, with so many different types of hearing aids on the market, it can be overwhelming to know which one is the best for you.
It’s important to choose the right hearing aid for your specific needs and preferences to ensure maximum benefits.
In this blog post, we will explore the different types of hearing aids, factors to consider when choosing a hearing aid, and tips for finding the right hearing aid professional.
Whether you are new to hearing aids or looking to upgrade, this article will guide you in making an informed decision.
Hearing Aid Styles
One of the best starting points in your journey of selecting the best hearing aid for you is to be familiar with the different styles of hearing aids.
Below are some of the most common hearing aid styles:
- Behind-the-Ear (BTE) – The BTE hearing aid has a casing that rests behind the ear and a plastic tube that connects it to a custom ear mold that fits inside the ear canal. This type of hearing aid is suitable for individuals with moderate to severe hearing loss and can accommodate various levels of technology, from basic to advanced.
- In-the-Canal (ITC) – The ITC hearing aid is smaller than the ITE and sits partially inside the ear canal. It is suitable for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss and offers a more cosmetic option.
- In-the-Ear (ITE) – The ITE hearing aid is larger than the ITC and CIC styles, filling the majority of the outer ear bowl. It is suitable for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss and is easy to handle and use.
- Receiver-in-the-Canal (RIC) – The RIC hearing aid is similar to the BTE style, but the speaker or receiver is placed in the ear canal instead of behind the ear. This type of hearing aid is suitable for individuals with mild to severe hearing loss and offers a comfortable and discreet option.
- Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC) – The CIC hearing aid is the smallest style and sits deep inside the ear canal, making it virtually invisible. It is suitable for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss who prioritize discretion.
Choosing the best hearing aid style will depend on your specific hearing needs and preferences. An audiologist can help determine the best style based on the degree and type of hearing loss, lifestyle, budget, and personal preference.
Things to consider when choosing a hearing aid
You also need to consider the following factors if you are in the process of choosing a hearing aid:
- Degree and type of hearing loss – The type and severity of hearing loss will determine which type of hearing aid is most suitable. A hearing test can accurately determine the degree and type of hearing loss. Through a hearing test, an audiologist can efficiently provide you with recommendations/options on the hearing aids you can choose from.
- Lifestyle and physical considerations – Consider your daily activities, your job and/or hobbies, and how the hearing aid will fit into your lifestyle.
- Budget – Hearing aids can be expensive, so it’s important to consider your budget and let your hearing care provider know about it. There are budget-friendly options that can still provide good quality performance.
- Personal preference and aesthetics – Hearing aids come in different designs, shapes, sizes, and colors. There are hearing aid designed to be practically invisible, while some are designed to look like modern earwear.
- Available technology – Modern hearing aids now come with a wide selection of advanced features, such as directional microphones, noise-cancellation, direct streaming, automatic volume control, etc. Keep in mind that the more features a hearing aid has, the more expensive it will be. If you’re on a budget, try to list down the most important hearing aid feature(s) you need so that it will be easier for your audiologist to narrow down your options.
Hearing Aids in Cary, NC
Cary Audiology is an authorized provider of top hearing aids in Cary, NC.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
