If you use a hearing aid, or you are thinking about getting one, you should understand that there are many types available on the market today, and some are more appropriate for certain conditions than others. Depending on your level of hearing difficulty, the environments you frequent, and your comfort level, you may want to choose a specific type of hearing aid that meets your needs.
At Fairway Hearing Center, we work with those who are living with hearing impairment every day, helping them find hearing aids that will work for them. Contact our hearing specialist in Dewey Beach, DE, and more areas nearby.
Here is a review of the general categories of hearing aids we offer, and the purposes of each type:
Invisible-in-Canal (IIC)
These are the smallest type of hearing aid available today, and many people prefer them because they are nearly invisible to others. Unfortunately, because of their small battery size, they do not have the same sound amplification power or battery life of some other options. For that reason, we recommend them for people with mild to moderate hearing loss.
Completely-in-Canal (CIC)
These units are a bit larger than IIC units, but they are another discreet way to improve your hearing. Both IIC and CIC units are custom molded to fit the shape of your ear canal for improved comfort and sound clarity. Again, due to their shorter battery life and reduced amplification power, we recommend them for people with mild or moderate hearing loss.
In-the-Canal (ITC)
This is the largest type of hearing aid that is worn inside the ear canal. While they are more visible than smaller units, they boast improved battery life and better amplification power. They can also be equipped with some optional features and are appropriate for those with moderate or borderline severe hearing loss.
Resound Microphone in Helix (MIH)
This unique hearing aid uses a microphone that is separate from the battery/amplifier unit, allowing it to use the ear’s natural shape to collect sound. This results in more natural sound quality, reduced feedback, and reduced wind noise. These units are also smaller and more discreet than many others.
In-the-Ear (ITE)
These hearing aids are custom molded to sit in the bowl of the outer ear, with some units being larger than others. Their larger size allows for longer battery life and better sound quality. They can also support a range of features including integrated directional microphones, volume wheels, mode selection, and more. These units are perfect for those with severe hearing loss.
Behind-the-Ear (BTE)
This type of hearing aid is worn externally, and as such, can be much larger in size. The main part of the device is worn behind the ear, containing the battery and amplifier, and is connected to a custom ear mold – worn inside the ear – that contains the speaker and microphone. These units are available with Bluetooth technology and offer unmatched battery life and sound amplification. They are also much more durable than smaller units, so we often recommend them for children and those whose hearing aids are likely to encounter shock from physical activity. They are appropriate for nearly all levels of hearing loss.
Receiver-in-Canal (RIC)
These are similar to BTE models, except the main unit is connected to the ear canal with a thin, clear tube where the speaker and microphone are located. RIC hearing aids produce a more natural sound quality, are very comfortable, and are easier to handle than smaller units. Their detachable component parts make them easier to repair, giving them a lower cost of ownership. Again these units are suitable for treating all types of hearing loss.
Hearing Aid Store in Delaware
If you need a hearing aid in Rehoboth Beach or anywhere else in the Delaware area, Fairway hearing center can help you select the unit that will work best for your situation. Give us a call to fill out our contact form to request an appointment online!