Hearing Aids
Different Hearing Aids
Choosing a hearing aid can be difficult, but it is important to get the right one for you or someone you know. If you have hearing aids, it won't completely restore your hearing, and it will just increase the volume of the sound waves you hear.
Hearing Aid Components
The hearing aid is made of multiple components: the microphone, the amplifier, and the speaker. Firstly, the microphone gathers sound waves, secondly the amplifier increases the volume of them and last but not least the speaker outputs it directly into your ear.
Behind The Ear
The BTE (Behind The Ear) hearing aid is a device that goes over your ear. It uses a hook so it doesn't fall off, and a small tube connects it to a ear mold that fits within your canal. This is a safe type, and can be used by everyone, of all ages, and of all different types of hearing loss.
In The Ear
The ITE (In The Ear) hearing aid is a small aid that goes discreetly into your outer ear. These devices are custom made for each individual, meaning you will have to get a impression of the ear. An advantage, the user has less wind noise, however with all the advantages, this hearing aid cannot be used by everyone. The device, since it's too small, cannot increase the volume loud enough for some people.
In The Canal
A newer type of ITE hearing aid is the ITC (in the canal) hearing aid. These devices are much smaller than the previously mentioned ITE aids. They are about the same, however, the ITC cannot be adjusted or removed nearly as well. They aren't recommended for children or people with severe to profound hearing loss.