WHAT ARE HEARING AIDS?

Hearing aids are sound-amplifying devices designed to aid people who have a hearing impairment. The present day hearing aids works on latest digital technology with a micro chip placed inside along with microphones, amplifier and the receiver.

Hearing aids differ by:

• design
• technology used to achieve amplification (i.e., analog vs. digital)
• special features

The selection of a hearing aids is based on the type and severity of hearing loss, listening needs, and lifestyle.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT STYLES OF HEARING AIDS?

BEHIND-THE-EAR (BTE) AIDS:

Behind the ear aids (BTE) consist of a outer casing, an earmold or ear tip. This style is the most common design used by patients. Also, the BTE aids are easy to be cleaned and handled, and are relatively sturdy.

"MINI" BTE/ RECEIVER IN THE CANAL(RIC) AIDS:

Mini BTE's are relatively smaller in size when compared to a standard BTE. Mini BTEs may have a comfortable ear piece for insertion ("open fit"), but may also use a traditional earmold. Mini BTEs allow not only reduced occlusion or "plugged up" sensations in the ear canal, but also increase comfort, reduce feedback and addres cosmetic concerns for many users.

IN-THE-EAR (ITE) AIDS:

All parts of the hearing aid are contained in a shell that fills in the outer (concha) part of the ear. Usually used by those patients who cannot use a the smaller version hearing aids like the CIC/ITC, BECAUSE OF VARIOUS REASONS.

IN-THE-CANAL (ITC) AIDS AND COMPLETELY-IN-THE-CANAL (CIC) AIDS:

These hearing aids are contained in tiny cases that fit partly or completely into the ear canal. They are the smallest hearing aids available and offer cosmetic and some listening advantages. However as the size of the hearing aid is very small, the battery life for the same also is less when compared to other designs.

IIC (Invisible in the Canal)

The latest development (in terms of size) in the hearing aid industry are the IIC's. Also called as the contact lens for ears, the IIC's are placed deep inside the canal & hence these are 100% invisible. The candidacy to wear an IIC aid is decided by the consultant Audiologist as one should have a minimum ear canal size for the aid to be fitted in along with the extent of hearing loss.