This is an example of a half shell in the ear hearing aid, which fits only in the bottom half of the ear.
Though you may think that all hearing aids are made equal, there are actually several different types to choose from. The style of hearing aid you choose is based on a combination of personal preference and the severity of your hearing loss. Here are the most common types of hearing aids to help you decide which is best for you.
Completely In The Canal (CIC)
A CIC hearing aid is designed to fit directly inside your ear canal and is made for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss. It is the smallest type of hearing aid, making it the least visible as well. Because it’s completely inside the ear, it keeps it from picking up wind noise. On the down side, it uses tiny batteries that have a shorter lifespan. It doesn’t have any addition features like controlling the volume. Since it’s in the ear, earwax is more likely to clog the speaker.
In The Canal (ITC)
This style of hearing aids fits only partially inside the ear canal and is also made for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss. It’s more visible than the CIC model, but it is still a lot less visible than other styles. Since it’s bigger, it includes more features than the CIC model, but it can be a little difficult to adjust those features since it’s still small. This style is also at risk for earwax blockage.
In The Ear (ITE)
There are two styles of ITE hearing aids: full shell and half shell. The full shell style fills the entire bowl-shaped area of the outer ear, while the half shell only consumes the lower part. This hearing aid can treat anything from mild to severe hearing loss. This style has volume control, which the other two didn’t because of their small size. They are easier to handle and have a longer battery life. Earwax can still clog the speakers. This style will end up picking up more wind noise and it is a lot more visible than the smaller options.
Behind The Ear (BTE)
This style involves hooking the hearing aid itself around the back of the ear. There is a tube that connects the aid to an earpiece that will sit in your ear canal. The behind the ear hearing aid is the most common and appropriate style for children and adults. It’s the largest style out of all of them, but smaller designs are being created. It can amplify sound more than any of the other styles, but also picks up more wind noise than other styles as well.
Contact Bay Area Audiology Today For Your Hearing Aid!
Ready to do something about your hearing loss? Our Doctor of Audiology, Dr. Trisha A. Bents Muth, is exceptionally experienced in the art of audiology, and provides the absolute best solutions. Bay Area Audiology has been working to give patients a comfortable environment, with thorough evaluations. We are independently owned, and unbiased when it comes to finding you the care you need.
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