Several types of hearing aids
A hearing aid is an electronic, battery-operated device that
amplifies and changes sound to allow for improved communication.
Hearing aids receive sound through a microphone, which then
converts the sound waves to electrical signals. The amplifier
increases the loudness of the signals and then sends the sound
to the ear through a speaker. Different kinds of hearing aids
There are several types of hearing aids. Each type offers
different advantages, depending on its design, levels of
amplification, and size. Before purchasing any hearing aid, ask
whether it has a warranty that will allow you to try it out.
Most manufacturers allow a 30- to 60-day trial period during
which aids can be returned for a refund. There are four basic
styles of hearing aids for people with sensorineural hearing
loss: In-the-Ear (ITE) hearing aids fit completely in the outer
ear and are used for mild to severe hearing loss. The case,
which holds the components, is made of hard plastic. ITE aids
can accommodate added technical mechanisms such as a telecoil, a
small magnetic coil contained in the hearing aid that improves
sound transmission during telephone calls. ITE aids can be
damaged by earwax and ear drainage, and their small size can
cause adjustment problems and feedback. They are not usually
worn by children because the casings need to be replaced as the
ear grows. Behind-the-Ear (BTE) hearing aids are worn behind
the ear and are connected to a plastic earmold that fits inside
the outer ear. The components are held in a case behind the ear.
Sound travels through the earmold into the ear. BTE aids are
used by people of all ages for mild to profound hearing loss.
Poorly fitting BTE earmolds may cause feedback, a whistle sound
caused by the fit of the hearing aid or by buildup of earwax or
fluid. Canal Aids fit into the ear canal and are available in
two sizes. The In-the-Canal (ITC) hearing aid is customized to
fit the size and shape of the ear canal and is used for mild or
moderately severe hearing loss. A Completely-in-Canal (CIC)
hearing aid is largely concealed in the ear canal and is used
for mild to moderately severe hearing loss. Because of their
small size, canal aids may be difficult for the user to adjust
and remove, and may not be able to hold additional devices, such
as a telecoil. Canal aids can also be damaged by earwax and ear
drainage. They are not typically recommended for children. Body
Aids are used by people with profound hearing loss. The aid is
attached to a belt or a pocket and connected to the ear by a
wire. Because of its large size, it is able to incorporate many
signal processing options, but it is usually used only when
other types of aids cannot be used.
On the basis of the hearing test results, the audiologist can
determine whether hearing aids will help. Hearing aids are
particularly useful in improving the hearing and speech
comprehension of people with sensorineural hearing loss. When
choosing a hearing aid, the audiologist will consider your
hearing ability, work and home activities, physical limitations,
medical conditions, and cosmetic preferences. For many people,
cost is also an important factor. You and your audiologist must
decide whether one or two hearing aids will be best for you.
Wearing two hearing aids may help balance sounds, improve your
understanding of words in noisy situations, and make it easier
to locate the source of sounds.
Problems while adjusting to hearing aids Become familiar with
your hearing aid. Your audiologist will teach you to use and
care for your hearing aids. Also, be sure to practice putting in
and taking out the aids, adjusting volume control, cleaning,
identifying right and left aids, and replacing the batteries
with the audiologist present. The hearing aids may be
uncomfortable. Ask the audiologist how long you should wear your
hearing aids during the adjustment period. Also, ask how to test
them in situations where you have problems hearing, and how to
adjust the volume and/or program for sounds that are too loud or
too soft. Your own voice may sound too loud. This is called the
occlusion effect and is very common for new hearing aid users.
Your audiologist may or may not be able to correct this problem;
however, most people get used to it over time. Your hearing aid
may "whistle." When this happens, you are experiencing feedback,
which is caused by the fit of the hearing aid or by the buildup
of earwax or fluid. See your audiologist for adjustments. You
may hear background noise. Keep in mind that a hearing aid does
not completely separate the sounds you want to hear from the
ones you do not want to hear, but there may also be a problem
with the hearing aid. Discuss this with your audiologist.
For more information on hearing aids please visit the Hearing aids resource center.