Which are the Most Popular Types Of Hearing Aids?

Hearing aids are devices that have certainly changed over the years, and those who use them will appreciate this. They’ve got from being beige, chunky devices that are somewhat obvious to some that are barely even noticeable. Having to deal with hearing loss of any kind is difficult enough without the bulky and unappealing devices. However, if you’re looking at hearing aids, there are certainly some popular ones that are worth looking at.

Popular types of hearing aids

There are various options available, and depending on your hearing quality, will sometimes depend on what the hearing instrument specialist will recommend to you. When it comes to picking your hearing aids, it’s good to go with something that you feel comfortable with and that is going to help improve your hearing as much as possible. There’s always appearance and budget to factor in too. With that being said, here are some of the most popular types of hearing aids:

Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids

This is one of the most common forms of hearing aid and one that you would usually associate with that traditional appearance in that the hearing aid itself is sitting behind the ear. The BTE hearing aid is placed behind your ear and connected to tubing that connects the earmold of the device to the hearing aid itself. With the earmold, it will often need changing, so that’s worth bearing in mind. The BTE also has a microphone and a receiver, which all sits behind the ear as well. The power is the biggest advantage of this type of hearing aid, the disadvantage, and why some may choose alternatives is that it’s big and visible.

Completely-in-the-canal (CIC) hearing aids

If you’re someone who is considering hearing aids but doesn’t like the thought of having it visible, then there’s the CIC. This hearing aid is completely in the ear canal so that it’s pretty much invisible to the eye. You will still be able to see a little bit of the face-plate that sits near the entrance of the ear canal, but for those who are self-conscious, it can definitely be a popular one due to its small size and discreetness.

In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids

With in-the-ear hearing aids, they’re placed around the outer part of the ear and can usually come in a nude color to help make it look as though it’s blended in with the ear itself. They’re more visible regardless though than other hearing aids that are available, however, they will give you a lot more power than post. It’s true that the bigger the hearing aid is, the more dexterity it has and ultimately longer-lasting. This might be something you’re looking for.

Invisible-in-canal (IIC) hearing aids

Probably the most popular one for those who don’t want anyone to know they’re wearing one is the IIC. This is an invisible one that is tiny in size and therefore, pretty much impossible to see from a distance or close up for that matter. The hearing aid is so far into the ear canal that you will find it problematic when it comes to filling up on earwax. However, if you’re someone who really wants to reduce the appearance, it’s a small price to pay.

Assessing if you need hearing aids

With just a few examples above of the most popular hearing aids available, getting them for the first time is nothing to worry about. Assessing yourself for hearing aids will usually involve you speaking to a hearing instrument specialist about your hearing and for them to run some tests. Once the tests have been done, you’ll be able to go through the options available, including the ones above, to see which style is going to suit you best. Being able to pick a hearing aid that suits you and your needs is important. Helping with any kind of hearing loss is important, but you want to be comfortable with what you pick so that you can still feel confident in how you look and feel with them on. If you’re interested in getting hearing aids or noticed a change in your hearing that’s been noticeable to others, it’s worth learning more by approaching The Hearing Guy. You can contact The Hearing Guy at these locations by calling (828) 333-5781 today. It’s important to get your hearing checked out sooner rather than later. Being able to have better hearing can really help with your confidence and taking advantage of the sounds around you.