How to Choose the Perfect Hearing Aid for You
Hearing loss and other hearing-related issues don’t need to be the end of experiencing sounds clearly. The science of hearing aids is advanced enough that you can enjoy clear hearing; you only need to choose the hearing aid that works best for you.
To pick the perfect hearing aid, first, you have to learn about the different types available.
The different types of hearing aids
In-the-canal
As the name suggests, in-the-canal or ITC hearing aids fit in the ear canal. This is a lightweight model which is customized to fit each individual user’s ear. But their smallness proves to be a problem for some people.
Who should use it?
These are usually prescribed for those suffering from moderate to severe hearing issues. But for those with profound issues, they may not be a good model.
Completely-in-the-canal
A completely-in-the-canal or CIC hearing aid is extremely small and fits completely within the ear canal. It’s almost impossible to view from the outside and so discreetly blends into your lifestyle. Another advantage of the model is that you get no feedback while using a phone- a common problem with certain other hearing aid types. On the flip side, CIC hearing aids tend to be more expensive than many other variants.
Who should use it?
CIC hearing aids are typically prescribed for those with light to moderate loss of hearing.
In-the-ear
In-the-ear or ITE hearing aids fit the outer part of your ear, which explains the name. As you may have guessed, they are somewhat bigger than ITC hearing aids. For this reason, you can handle them comfortably.
A key advantage of this model is that you can install a telecoil in it. This enables one to receive sound from the external world directly via the circuits inside the aid itself, and not through a microphone. Compared to some other models, you can also hear sounds easily while talking on the phone.
Who should use it?
This type of hearing aid is usually prescribed for those suffering from mild to severe issues.
Receiver-in-canal
The receiver-in-canal(RIC) hearing aid is one in which the receiver fits within your ear canal. It is relatively small, with the tube of the device practically invisible. There are a couple of downsides to this model though. One is that there is a better chance of wax building up in the ear due to its use, compared with many other models. Also, you may get feedback problems while using this model.
Who should use it?
Those with slight to moderate loss of hearing are usually candidates for RIC hearing aids.
Behind-the-ear
Behind-the-ear or BTI model probably constitutes the most familiar type of hearing aid for many people, thanks to the fact that it has been in use for quite a long time now. The components of the hearing aid are encapsulated within a compartment that can be fitted behind your ear. The hearing aid also has a tube as its part, which is linked with the earmold.
A major advantage of these hearing aids is that they are easy to handle because of their relatively big size. You can clean them easily too, for that same reason. The model is prescribed a lot for kids- the earmold can be replaced according to the changing size of the ear as they grow up.
Who should use it?
A wide range of people; from those suffering from light to profound loss of hearing.
Other important aspects to keep in mind
Get a thorough hearing checkup
The decision on which hearing aid to choose shouldn’t be made without consulting with a medical professional. To this end, get a checkup from the best hearing aid clinic in your town or city. Based on the results, the doctor would recommend hearing aids that would be ideal for you.
Choose hearing aids from trusted brands
As with most products, multiple brands manufacture hearing aids. Not all of them are equally trustworthy though. Check the reviews and recommendations to pick the right brand for you. This is yet another reason to visit the best hearing aid clinic in your city or town, as they would be able to recommend trusted brands.
Avail trial periods
Most hearing aid manufacturers provide trial periods during which you can test out the product. If you feel uncomfortable in any way while using it during that period, you should be able to return it and get a refund. Before purchasing, make sure to learn about the trial period and the refund policy.
Maintenance
To buy your hearing aid, choose an outlet that would provide maintenance service as well. Find the best hearing aid clinic near you for this- they should be able to provide the service. Ensure that the service provisions are available in your region before making the purchase.
With a good understanding of the types of hearing aids and the key aspects to keep in mind about choosing one, you can confidently pick the right hearing aid, and start living in a world full of clear sounds again.
Tags: behind the ear, Completely in the canal
By Hearfon-Hearing Healthcare | August 11, 2023 | Hearing Aids | 0 Comments
About the Author: Hearfon-Hearing Healthcare
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