Hearing Aids 101: Understanding the Different Types and Their Features
Introduction
Hearing loss is a common problem that affects millions of people worldwide. It can be caused by a variety of factors such as age, exposure to loud noises, and certain medical conditions. Fortunately, advancements in technology have made it possible to improve hearing abilities with the help of hearing aids.
If you're considering buying a hearing aid, it's important to understand the different types of hearing aids available in the market along with their features. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the basics of hearing aids 101: Understanding the Different Types and Their Features.
Behind-the-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids
BTE hearing aids are the most commonly used hearing aids. They are placed behind the ear and are connected to an earmold that fits inside the ear canal. Some of the features of BTE hearing aids include:
They come in different sizes, from small to large, depending on the degree of hearing loss.
They are suitable for people of all ages, from infants to adults.
They can be customized to fit the shape and size of your ear canal.
In-the-Ear (ITE) Hearing Aids
ITE hearing aids are custom-made to fit inside the ear canal. They are available in two types: full-shell and half-shell. Some of the features of ITE hearing aids include:
They are discreet and are not visible from the outside.
They are easy to insert and remove from the ear canal.
They are suitable for people with mild to severe hearing loss.
Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) Hearing Aids
RIC hearing aids are similar to BTE hearing aids, but the receiver or speaker is placed inside the ear canal. Some of the features of RIC hearing aids include:
They are more discreet than BTE hearing aids.
They provide a more natural sound quality.
They are suitable for people with mild to moderate hearing loss.
Completely-in-Canal (CIC) Hearing Aids
CIC hearing aids are the smallest hearing aids available in the market. They are placed deep inside the ear canal and are barely visible from the outside. Some of the features of CIC hearing aids include:
They are very discreet and provide a natural sound quality.
They are custom-made to fit the shape and size of your ear canal.
They are suitable for people with mild to moderate hearing loss.
Features to Consider While Buying a Hearing Aid
While buying a hearing aid, there are certain features that you need to consider. These features will help you choose a hearing aid that is best suited for your needs. Some of these features include:
Noise reduction: This feature helps reduce background noise and improve speech recognition.
Telecoil: This feature allows you to hear better on the phone or in public places with loop systems.
Directional microphones: This feature helps you focus on the sounds that are in front of you and reduce the sounds that are behind you.
FAQs
Q. How long do hearing aids last?
A. On average, hearing aids last between 3 to 7 years, depending on the type and usage.
Q. Do hearing aids require maintenance?
A. Yes, hearing aids require regular maintenance to keep them functioning properly. This includes cleaning, changing batteries, and regular check-ups with your audiologist.
Q. Are hearing aids covered by insurance?
A. Some insurance plans do cover