The Types of Hearing Aids: Knowing the Best Position for Your Ears

For those of you who have hearing problems, using a hearing aid is one solution. Things you need to know are that there are several types of hearing aids with different placement locations.

By knowing the types of hearing aids, you can consider the positioning location and advantages before buying one. Hence, you won't make the wrong purchase when you need a simple device.

This article will discuss the types of hearing aids based on the positioning location. Let's take a look so you don't make the wrong choice for your ears.

The Types of Hearing Aids

Types of Hearing Aids

Based on the positioning location, there are six types of hearing aids. Here is the detailed explanation of each type:

1. Behind-The-Ear (BTE)

Behind-The-Ear (BTE) is the most common type of hearing aid. This device is placed behind the ear and connected by a tube or wire to an ear mold that is inserted into the ear.

This type of hearing aid transmits sound through a tube to the ear. BTE has a larger battery and is easier to use. This device is suitable for various levels of hearing loss.

2. In-The-Ear (ITE)

Types of Hearing Aids

In-The-Ear (ITE) is a type that is designed according to the ear mold and is placed directly inside the ear. ITE is further divided into two types, namely full shell and half shell.

Full shell ITE is designed to fill a large area of the ear shell. Meanwhile, half shell is designed to fit the lower part of the ear shell. The advantage of this type is that it has a larger battery and easy-to-reach manual controls. This type is suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss.

3. Completely-In-the-Canal (CIC)

Completely-In-the-Canal (CIC) hearing aids are the smallest type of hearing aid. They are placed in the ear canal and are almost invisible from the outside. CIC hearing aids are suitable for those who want comfort and a minimalist look.

This type won't make you look like you're wearing a hearing aid. However, due to its small size, the device does not have manual controls. CIC is suitable for those with mild to moderate hearing loss.

4. Receiver-In-Canal (RIC)

Types of Hearing Aids

Receiver-In-Canal (RIC) is similar to BTE, but has a speaker (receiver) located inside the ear canal. RIC provides clearer sound quality because the receiver is directly placed in the ear canal. This device is suitable for those with mild to severe hearing loss.

5. In-The-Canal (ITC)

In-The-Canal (ITC) hearing aids are similar to ITE hearing aids but are smaller in size. This type is positioned mostly inside the ear canal so that it is not conspicuous.

These devices are usually equipped with wireless connectivity and volume control buttons. ITC hearing aids are suitable for people with mild to moderate hearing loss.

6. Invisible-In-Canal (IIC)

Invisible-In-Canal (IIC) is the smallest type of hearing aid. This type is almost invisible because it is placed deep inside the ear canal, close to the eardrum. IIC is designed for those who want the most discreet and comfortable hearing aid. This type is suitable for those with mild to moderate hearing loss.

These are the types of hearing aids based on the positioning location. By understanding the different types, you can make an informed decision before choosing the best for your ears.

When choosing the right hearing aids, you need to consider comfort and the type of hearing loss you have. By choosing the right hearing aids, you will have a device that is comfortable and effective for long-term use.