Hearing and Balance

TYPES OF HEARING AIDS

There are many different types of hearing aids, and each one has its own unique features. Some people prefer behind-the-ear (BTE) or in-the-canal (ITC) styles, while others opt for a completely invisible option like a completely in the canal (CIC). The type of hearing loss you have will also determine what kind of device works best for you.


You can learn more about the types of hearing aids below to help narrow down your choices based on the style that you need or prefer. We’ve also included pros and cons for each type of hearing aids to help you weigh what matters most. .

Types of Hearing Aids for Specific Hearing Loss

Noise induced hearing loss is an occupational hazard for people who work in loud environments. There are different types of hearing aids to help combat this problem.


Different types of hearing aids can lock out background sounds to focus on the present moment, attenuating wind or other nuisance noises that interfere with conversations you want to hear most urgently, or simply creating a sense of peace by blocking stressful voices or environments so you can reach your full potential during emotional therapy sessions or work performance reviews. Specific types of hearing aids and ear plugs can filter noises from daily life when it makes more sense for the wearer to concentrate.


We can help you choose the best types of hearing aids for you. Visit us at PA Center for Hearing and Balance to get an accurate hearing test and a step-by-step assistance from fitting to adjustments.

TWO BASIC TYPES OF HEARING AIDS

The two basic types of hearing aids are in-the-ear (ITE) and behind the ear (BTE).

The ITE is an internal device worn on or in a person’s ear that helps amplify sound. It has the advantage of needing only one piece for both ears, making it convenient when traveling, but does not have as much space to contain all of the electronic components so can end up being bulky.

The BTE needs to be screwed in through an opening at the top or side of each ear from outside, often with assistance from someone else.

In-the-ear types of hearing aids

ITE hearing aids are a discreet, comfortable and effective alternative to bulky over-the-ears or behind-the-head models. They can be trimmed down for children’s ears and changed easily due to the near universal fitting of M size ear tips. In fact, some people may not even notice you’re wearing an aid when it’s on well! For those hard of hearing individuals who need more power than most human speech emits, this is one option that provides amplification up to about 30 decibels (depending on model).

Behind-the-ear types of hearing aids

Behind-the-ear hearing aids have a number of advantages as they can be custom fit to the wearer and are less visible than in-the-ear hearing aids. The canal earpiece is small and sits behind the ears, allowing it to stay out of view much more easily. With this kind, you do not need to worry about perspiration or hair getting caught in them like with traditional models that go inside your ear; these sets are also particularly ideal for people who live an active lifestyle where there is a risk for getting acne on their face from wearing ear molding styles.

TYPES OF HEARING AIDS - BATTERIES

When you choose a hearing aid, it is important to think about what types of battery the unit runs on and how often you need to change them. Traditionally, most hearing aids used smaller button batteries which wearers needed to replace every few days or weeks whereas now there are models with rechargeable batteries that last several weeks when charged in your device.

Hear Better. Live Better.