Which Hearing Aid Style is Right for You?

In the US, approximately one in eight people experience hearing loss in both ears. Furthermore, up to three of every 1,000 children are born with detectable hearing loss in single or both ears. Consistent progress in treatment has made it easier to cope with experiencing hearing loss. If you are one of the 13% of Americans who have experience with hearing in both ear or just one, hearing aids prescribed and recommended by your audiologist can help you maintain your current lifestyle without issue. 

How your audiologist can help you find the best hearing aid

As audiologists understand a range of hearing loss experiences, they are the most qualified for helping you find the best hearing aid for you. 

During your consultation, they will carry out several tests, ask questions regarding your experiences with hearing loss, along with any other information, including your preferences, they may need to prescribe you the most effective option.

These questions will consider the severity of your hearing loss. Those who experience profound hearing loss are more suited to what is known as power hearing aids. However, not everyone will require such an effective hearing aid, and in these cases, your audiologist will work with you to find one that is the most suitable for you. 

Audiologists understand that some people prefer an instrument that is as discreet as possible. With this in mind, they will help you look for and identify the most suitable options for you.

Finally, audiologists will need information regarding your lifestyle and budget. This helps to provide you and your audiologist with the best idea of available options, and which will benefit you the most based on your situation. 

Different styles of hearing aids

Not all hearing aids are the same, and depending on your needs. Your audiologist will likely issue one of these three hearing aids. The type of hearing aid recommended will depend on several factors, including the severity of your hearing loss, style preference, and your budget or lifestyle. 

In the ear (ITE)

In the ear hearing aids fit around the opening of your ear. They are more discreet compared to BTE and ITC options, as they cannot be seen from behind. However, others are still able to see them from the side. 

They are suitable for most people who require hearing aids, although they can be more challenging to use when you balance them against alternatives. 

Behind the ear (BTE)

Behind the ear hearing aids is the most common hearing aid style. The small plastic device sits behind your ear, and this is attached to a piece of plastic, an earmold, via a tube or for open fittings, they have a soft tip that goes into your ear opening. 

BTE hearing aids are the easiest to use and come in a variety of colors.  

In the canal (ITC)

In the canal hearing aids share many similarities with ITE counterparts, but they are slightly smaller and only fill the area in the opening of the ear. 

These are the least visible of all hearing aid styles, although they can be quite tricky to use. They are also often not powerful enough for those who experience more profound hearing loss. 

Features of a hearing aid

To ensure that your hearing aid is as effective as possible, you need one that provides features suitable for your needs. When searching for an ideal hearing aid, you will get the best results investing in an instrument that offers these features:

• Digital noise and feedback reduction: This feature helps to provide a crisp listening experience and filters background and environmental noise for better audio clarity. 
• Directional microphones: Hearing aids with directional microphones make it easier to identify the sound you try and focus on and are useful for those who regularly require clarification because of their hearing loss. 
• Multiple channels: Using multiple channels, you will no longer need to retune your hearing aid for different environments but instead program and save settings to apply when needed.  
• Bluetooth streaming: Hearing aids with Bluetooth make it easy to listen to music, podcasts and sync with speaker systems for improved audio quality. 
• Binaural processing: Binaural processing allows a more rounded sound for those using two hearing aids, creating a more natural experience.  
• Automatic programming: Restricted to higher-level hearing aids, automatic programming analyzes the environment and adjusts to find the best audio setting. 

Get in touch today

If you experience hearing loss, speaking with your audiologist about having a hearing aid fitted could be the solution. To learn more about Hinderliter Hearing Services, get in touch today at 248-430-8425 and speak to a qualified audiologist for advice and guidance.