How to Pick Out Hearing Aids for the First Time

If you have no experience in buying hearing aids, then you may have some questions about the process. Picking out hearing aids is a big decision and you should consider all of your options so that you know you’re making the right choice for you. Hearing aids generally all do the same thing, no matter what type or brand they are. They amplify sounds around you so that you can hear more clearly. Most hearing aids also come with a rechargeable battery and the settings can be adjusted according to your personal requirements. If you’re on the lookout for new hearing aids, here are some of the things to take note of before you make your final decision. 

Different Types of Hearing Aids

Before you make your choice with regards to your hearing aids, you should probably become familiar with the main types of style. Here you will find out what kind of hearing aids are available and how they might benefit you.

Canal-Worn Varieties

There are three types of hearing aids worn in the canal, including: in the canal (ITC), completely in canal (CIC) and invisible in canal (IIC). These styles are the smallest and most discreet of all hearing aids and they’re very good at blocking out wind noise. The batteries, however, are slightly smaller and may be more difficult to handle. As the hearing aids sit inside the ear canal it’s important to regularly clean them as they can be susceptible to blockages.

In the Ear (ITE)

There are two different styles of ITE hearing aids, one is a full shell which fills most of the outer ear, and the other is a half shell that only covers the lower part. Both types of hearing aid are extremely helpful for those with mild to severe hearing loss. They can come with directional microphones which can be helpful too. The advantages to these styles are that they come with more controls compared to the smaller styles, they can pick up more sounds, the battery life is longer and they are much easier to handle when cleaning and charging.

Behind the Ear (BTE)

BTE hearing aid hooks over the top of your ear and rests behind it. There is a tube which connects the hearing aid to a customized earmold which fits into the ear canal. This type of hearing aid is suitable for all ages with any level of hearing loss. In most cases, this is the largest type of hearing aid, but there are newer designs which are emerging that are extremely discreet. This style can also have heightened amplification compared to others and they often come with a rechargeable battery.

Hopefully, this provides you with some good information regarding the different types of hearing aids so that you can pick out the best option for you.