What Types Of Hearing Aids Are Available?

What Types Of Hearing Aids Are Available?

hearing aidWhat Types Of Hearing Aids Are Available?

Hearing loss can have a big impact on your life, from your relationships to your work and well-being. Hearing aids are used to treat hearing loss. A hearing aid is a small electronic device designed to improve your hearing. West Coast ENT Head and Neck Surgery, which has offices in Simi Valley, Camarillo, Ventura County and Thousand Oaks, CA, offers treatments for ear, nose and throat problems. This article will help you understand the different types of hearing aids that are available.

1. BTE Hearing Aids

Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing instruments are used by individuals of all ages for all types of hearing loss. A BTE hearing aid is a small case worn behind the ear and connected to an earmold that fits inside the outer ear. Sound travels from the hearing aid through the earmold and into the ear. BTE hearing models are capable of more amplification than other styles. 

2. ITE Hearing Aids

In-the-ear (ITE) hearing instruments are suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss. These hearing aids are comfortably placed directly in the ear canal. The components of the hearing system are situated in a shell and custom fitted to the person's ear canal. ITEs are a good option if you want an easy-to-handle device. ITE hearing aids include features that don't fit on smaller hearing aids, such as volume control. 

3. CIC Hearing Aids

Completely-in-the-canal (CIC) hearing aids are a good choice if you're an active person—or if you want a hearing aid that’s nearly invisible to others. CIC models are worn in the ear canal. The close placement of the microphone to the eardrum provides a natural listening experience without whistling or a “plugged up” feeling. Because of their smaller size, they may not have as many advanced features as larger models. 

4. RIC Hearing Aids

Receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing instruments are suitable for mild to severe hearing loss. RIC hearing aids are discreet, yet powerful hearing aids that fit comfortably behind the ear. RIC models use a thin tube that extends from the body of the hearing instrument (housed behind the ear) over the outer ear and into the ear canal. RIC hearing aids are very popular. This is largely due to their physical comfort and cosmetic appeal. RIC hearing aids are easy to maneuver and can house a variety of features. 

5. IIC Hearing Aids

Invisible-in-the-canal (IIC) hearing aids are worn deep in the ear canal. IIC hearing aids are placed directly into the ear canal and can be easily removed with a string. IIC hearing aids are a good choice if you have an active lifestyle—or if you don't want your hearing aids to be visible to others. IIC hearing aids may not be the best choice for people with severe hearing loss, since they do not provide the same amount of power that larger models do.

If you need a hearing aid, why wait? We can help you today! Call West Coast ENT Head and Neck Surgery at 805-379-9646 today to schedule an appointment in Thousand Oaks, CA. Call 805-527-7320 to schedule an appointment in Simi Valley, CA. Call 805-983-0395 to schedule an appointment in Oxnard, CA. Call 805-484-5929 to schedule an appointment in Ventura County, CA. Hearing aids hold great potential to positively change so many lives.

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