Hearing Aid Styles

Types of Hearing Aids

There are a number of hearing aid styles on the market that vary in appearance, functionality, and price. Choose a hearing aid that suits you and your lifestyle. The only limitation is the range of hearing aids that can meet your level of hearing loss. Severe hearing loss will move you towards the behind-the-ear (BTE) models that have larger circuits. These models can also be a bit bothersome if you wear glasses. If you have an active lifestyle you may want the completely-in-canal (CIC) models provided they meet your hearing needs. These models are also easier to use if you are on the phone a lot. They don't require volume adjustments since most circuits in these models control volume by the use of compression. If you have difficulty handling small objects CIC's may not be for you. If you like the ability to adjust your volume manually move to the larger units or consider a smaller hearing aid with programmable circuits and a remote control.

As a general rule more volume comes from larger circuits and this is the reason why a larger unit like a behind-the-ear (BTE) may be required for more severe hearing loss. However, technological change in the hearing aid industry is rapid with more sound coming from much smaller circuits that will eventually remove this restriction.

BTE (behind-the-ear) This style hooks over the top of the outer ear with the aid tucked between the back of the ear and the head. The sound from the hearing aid is through a small tube into an ear-piece molded to fit the ear. These are considered the largest of the hearing aids, usually the least expensive and very reliable. They are the easiest to use if you have difficulty handling small objects. BTE aids are used by all ages for mild to profound hearing loss. Mega-Power units are useful for those with profound hearing loss.

ITE (in-the-ear) These In-The-Ear styles developed in the 70's combine the hearing aid and ear-piece as one unit fitting into the outer opening of the ear. They are used for mild to severe loss and often considered the most comfortable, least expensive, and easiest to operate. An ITE aid can accommodate a telecoil which is a small magnetic coil incorporated into the device to improve sound transmissions when using the phone. These units can also accommodate dual microphones. Earwax can be damaging to these units and they are not usually recommended for children because the casings need to be replaced as the ear grows.

ITC (in the canal) The canal units come in two sizes and fit into the ear canal and are smaller and usually more expensive than ITE's. They are customized to fit the shape of the canal and are used for mild or moderately severe hearing loss. The controls for volume are small and require good dexterity to use. Feedback when using a phone and wind noise can be a problem with this style. Their size, however, still allows them to hold larger more powerful circuits compared to the small in-the-canal units.

CIC (completely-in-canal) These and MicroCanal aids are the tiniest of the hearing aids molded to fit entirely in the ear canal from the ear opening to the eardrum. They are used for mild to moderately severe hearing loss. Their depth into the ear canal requires them to have a string for removal. Their small size and location further down the canal also reduces the power demand. These units usually do not have manual controls, the circuitry within the aid controls the volume through compression circuits. Due to their size, some have toggle switches or a remote can be used to change volume. Dual microphones are not seen in these units as the benefit would be marginal with their location deep in the ear canal. These units are very popular and once in the ear they are very hard to see.

MC (mini-canals or MIC) These units are smaller than ITC's but larger than those located completely in the canal, CIC's. They are a good choice if you want one of the smallest units that still have a tiny volume wheel.

PAC (post-auricular-canal instrument) A relatively new design physically separating the processor located behind the ear, from the receiver/speaker situated deep in the ear canal. Considered comfortable while offering acoustic options as the processor is located behind the ear. PAC units are used for mild to severe hearing loss.

Body Aids These are used by people with profound hearing loss. They are normally attached to a belt with a wire to the ear and are capable of a number of signal processing options. They are often the aid of choice when others cannot be used.