DIFFERENT STYLES OF HEARING AIDS

Completely in the Canal (CIC): This is the smallest hearing aid available. This custom fit hearing aid goes deep into the ear canal so that it is virtually invisible. This style does require a certain amount of space to fit properly in the ear canal, it is also not recommended for people with Diabetes. Due to the small size the battery lasts only about 5 days and requires good dexterity. These hearing aids may be susceptible to repairs not cared for properly.

In the Canal (ITC): This custom fit hearing aid is still rather small and hides behind the triangular part of the ear. Straight on it is not visible but can be viewed from the side. The battery is larger and can last about 2 weeks. They can be fit to a broader range of patients than the CIC but does have limits on how severe of a hearing loss it can accommodate.

Half Shell: This custom fit hearing aid takes up about half of the hollow portion of the ear. It has the same qualities of the ITC but is a little larger.

In the Ear (ITE): This custom fit style takes up the hole hollow portion of the external ear. The battery may last up to 3 weeks. It is a little easier to insert and has a larger volume control (if applicable). This aid can also be fit for more severe hearing losses.

Behind the Ear (BTE): The BTE hearing aid rests over and behind the ear, it connects to a tube which is embedded in a custom fit earmold which is usually clear. BTE's come in various sizes and colors, they have become significantly smaller over the past few years. Often they can blend well into a patient's hair. These tend to be the sturdiest hearing aids because they are not subjected to the wax in the ear canal. The earmold can be easily cleaned. They have the widest range of fitting capabilities and come standard with a phone switch. Because the aid does not fit in the ear there is less of an occlusion effect.

DIFFERENT HEARING AID TECHNOLOGIES