Behind the Ear (BTE)
BTE hearing aid is the most visible and the most durable. And it has longer battery life, too, compared to all types of hearing aids. Additionally, it caters to all degrees of hearing loss. The earmold—the portion use to attach the device on the outer ear, collects the sound and sends it to the ear through the tubing.
Receiver in the Ear (RITE) / Receiver in Canal (RIC)
RIC and RITE hearing aids are similar devices and, as the name implies, have different locations to where the receiver attaches. These are similar to BTE with the device placed on the outer ear.
Compared to BTE and Open Fit hearing aids, RIC and RITE send sounds to the ear using a wire instead of tubing. Patients with high-frequency hearing loss are compatible with and prefer this type of device. It includes multi-directional earphones which filter the sound that the user receives.
Open Fit
Open fit or the mini BTE, or On the Ear hearing aid. It is similar to a BTE hearing aid where there’s a part of the device that sits on the outer ear. The difference is it has a narrower tube which leaves the ear canal open. People with mild to severe hearing loss can benefit from using this hearing aid type.
Which Hearing Aids Types to Choose?
All hearing aid types are beneficial to people with hearing loss. Choosing the best hearing aid depends on the person’s medical condition, daily activities, and personal preferences.
Lifestyle and use
It is also important to consider the user of the device before choosing and buying it. It is best to use hearing aids that are adjustable if the user is a child, so that it fits the growing user. This way, it can last and be used for a long time. For the elderly, as some may have challenges with maintaining their device, they may opt for devices that are easier to clean and operate.
Design
The hearing aid design is also important. If the person has inner ear issues, it is best to avoid hearing aids that are fit to insert in the ear canal. For people who want more additional functionalities, it would be better to choose larger hearing aids such as BTE or ITE hearing aids. The size can accommodate the additional functionality and the battery life.
Personal preference
In terms of personal preference, there are people who want to make their hearing aids less visible. The CIC and ITC hearing aids have a smaller size compared to the other devices. Some prefer their hearing aids not plugging up their ear canals which the Open Fit hearing aid addresses.
Key Takeaways
Hearing aids are medical devices that improve communication for patients with hearing problems. Don’t forget to consult with your doctor when choosing the right device, because knowing appropriate hearing aid types for your case enhances the experience of using it.
Learn more about Ear Conditions here.
Comments
Share your thoughts
Be the first to let Hello Doctor know your thoughts!
Join Us or Log In to join the discussion