There are several varieties of hearing aids thanks to the development of so many new technological advances through the years. When you understand your options, you'll have the knowledge you need to make a better buying decision. Hearing loss is a common condition that can occur as people age.
Today, hearing aids come in all shapes and sizes. They each offer a range of unique features and benefits designed to fit the wearer's lifestyle and budget. In the past, many of the hearing aids on the market were uncomfortable and not always effective. All of that has changed, and it is very possible to get hearing aids that are both comfortable and functional. You want to ensure that your new hearing aids fit properly. Let's face it, if the product is not comfortable, they might be left sitting in their case instead of in the ears! Here's what you need to know, so you will love your new hearing aids.
Outside the Ear Hearing Aids
There are high quality hearing aids that are designed to be worn outside of the ear canal. These styles offer some very good benefits for many users. One type of hearing aids are devices that go behind the ear. These are commonly called BTE hearing aids. It attaches to the back of the ear, and there is a tiny wire that goes into the ear. This offers the user a lot of flexibility since, when not in use, it can be removed. You can manually change the settings, replace the batteries and gently clean the hearing aid.
There are also popular types of hearing aids that you place within the outer region of the ear. The batteries are a small circular disk, and it is very easy to change them as often as the manufacturer recommends. You can buy the batteries either from your hearing aid provider or from most local drug stores. Some of the hearing aids are available with a rechargeable battery.
In the Ear/Canal Hearing Aids
Hearing aids that go in the ear canal are much smaller than the outside ear styles. In the ear canal hearing aids are called CICs. As you would expect, these are more stationary, but they are removable. The CIC is molded into the wearer's ear canal. If it is a smart hearing aid, it can be controlled remotely as can any other smart device. There is a very tiny pull string that is attached to the product and remains in reach for removal of the device. In the ear hearing aids manage to avoid picking up a lot of wind noise, however they lack many of the features that the larger behind the ear options can use.
Determining Which Hearing Aid is Best
Hearing aid buyers should take their own personal lifestyle into account when making their decision. For instance, if you are an active participant in excessive sports, the BTE hearing aid could get dislodged and drop out. Please review the lists below to determine which may be best for you. Outside the ear hearing aids are:
- Comfortable for eyeglass wearers
- Easily removable for daily use
- Considered more effective for moderate to heavy hearing loss
- Easy to clean
Inside the ear canal hearing aids are:
- Tiny and unnoticeable
- Generally considered to be more comfortable because it is custom fitted
- Typically higher in price
- Considered more effective for mild to moderate hearing loss
In the end, both will probably offer you excellent hearing, but some can be a bit more convenient and fit into your lifestyle decisions.
The articles on this website should not be used to start the use of dietary supplements or vitamins, natural or herbal products, homeopathic medicine or other mentioned products prior to a proper consultation with a doctor or certified health provider.
