RECEIVER-IN-CANAL (RIC) HEARING AIDS
Receiver-In-Canal hearing aids (RIC) are a popular choice among individuals with hearing loss. RIC hearing aids are small and discreet, fitting behind the ear with a plastic tube that extends into the ear canal. The soft tip on the plastic tube makes RIC hearing aids more comfortable to wear than traditional Behind-The-Ear (BTE) models. RIC hearing aids are available with mid to advanced features, making them suitable for a range of hearing loss levels.
One advantage of RIC hearing aids is their superior sound quality, thanks to their open fit design. Unlike BTE hearing aids, RIC hearing aids don’t block the ear canal, allowing natural sound to enter the ear. This open-fit design also reduces the occlusion effect, which is the feeling of hearing one’s own voice too loudly.
RIC hearing aids are available from a range of manufacturers and can include features such as wireless connectivity, rechargeable batteries, and directional microphones. Some RIC models also have tinnitus therapy features.
BEHIND-THE-EAR (BTE) HEARING AIDS
Behind-The-Ear hearing aids (BTE) are the most common type of hearing aid. They consist of a device that sits behind the ear with a plastic ear mold that sits inside the ear opening. BTE hearing aids are larger and more visible than other types, but they are also more affordable. BTE models can come with a range of advanced features, including wireless connectivity and rechargeable batteries.
BTE hearing aids are suitable for all levels of hearing loss, including severe to profound hearing loss. They are also available in children’s versions, which can come in fun and playful colors.
IN-THE-EAR (ITE) HEARING AIDS
In-The-Ear hearing aids (ITE) are custom molded to fit the wearer’s ear and are available in a range of skin tone colors to match the wearer’s skin. ITE hearing aids are more discrete than BTE models, but they are typically more expensive because of their custom fit.
ITE hearing aids are available for mild to severe hearing loss, with the largest model (In-The-Canal) being suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss. ITE hearing aids can include features such as wireless connectivity, directional microphones, and rechargeable batteries.
IN-THE-CANAL (ITC) HEARING AIDS
In-The-Canal hearing aids (ITC) are smaller than ITE models and are custom fitted to the lower third of the wearer’s ear canal. ITC hearing aids are larger than Invisible-In-Canal (IIC) or Completely-In-Canal (CIC) models, but they are still discreet and suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss.
ITC hearing aids can be more powerful than smaller models because of their larger size, and they are less likely to move around in the ear when talking or chewing. ITC hearing aids can include features such as wireless connectivity, directional microphones, and rechargeable batteries.
COMPLETELY-IN-CANAL (CIC) HEARING AIDS
Completely-In-Canal hearing aids (CIC) are inserted completely into the ear canal and are custom molded to fit the wearer’s ear canal. CIC hearing aids are suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss and are the smallest of all hearing aid styles.
Despite their small size, CIC hearing aids can include advanced features such as wireless connectivity and rechargeable batteries. CIC hearing aids are also very discreet, with no visible parts other than a small plastic tab used for insertion and removal.
INVISIBLE-IN-CANAL (IIC) HEARING AIDS
If you’re looking for a hearing aid that’s both discreet and high-performing, the Invisible-In-Canal (IIC) style might be the right option for you. These hearing aids are the smallest of all In-The-Ear styles, making them practically invisible to others.
Unlike other hearing aid styles, the IIC style is placed deep inside the ear canal, providing excellent sound quality and more natural sound than other In-The-Ear models. They are also custom fit and molded to your ear, providing maximum comfort and a secure fit.
One of the main benefits of the IIC style is its discreetness. It’s an excellent option for those who want to keep their hearing loss private or who feel self-conscious about wearing a hearing aid. You can wear these hearing aids comfortably and confidently in social situations without drawing attention to yourself.
Additionally, IIC hearing aids come with a variety of advanced features, despite their small size. Many models have rechargeable batteries, making them convenient and cost-effective. You can also find models with Bluetooth connectivity and other features that allow you to stream audio from your phone or other devices directly to your hearing aids.
It’s important to note that IIC hearing aids are best suited for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss. If you have more severe hearing loss, other types of hearing aids may be more suitable for you.
Overall, if you’re looking for a discreet, high-performing hearing aid that will provide you with excellent sound quality and maximum comfort, the IIC style might be the right option for you. Consider consulting with a hearing healthcare professional to determine if this type of hearing aid is a good fit for your unique needs and lifestyle.
FIND YOUR BRAND
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Styles of Hearing Aids:
Let’s take a look at some of the most common styles of hearing aids:
Standard Hearing Aids:
Standard hearing aids are available in various styles, including Behind-The-Ear (BTE), Receiver-In-Canal (RIC), In-The-Ear (ITE), In-The-Canal (ITC), and Completely-In-Canal (CIC). They are versatile and offer various features such as noise reduction, directionality, feedback suppression, and Bluetooth connectivity. Standard hearing aids are ideal for people with mild to severe hearing loss who want a range of options to suit their lifestyle and budget.
Digital Hearing Aids:
Digital hearing aids are the most advanced type of hearing aid available. They offer advanced signal processing capabilities, automatic adjustment, and superior sound quality. Digital hearing aids are available in various styles, including BTE, RIC, ITE, ITC, and CIC. They offer a wide range of features, including speech enhancement, noise reduction, directional microphones, and Bluetooth connectivity. Digital hearing aids are ideal for people with active lifestyles who require clear and natural sound in various listening environments.
Programmable Hearing Aids:
Programmable hearing aids are designed to adjust the sound based on the user’s hearing needs. They offer different programs that can be programmed by the audiologist according to the user’s preferences and listening environments. Programmable hearing aids are available in various styles, including BTE, RIC, ITE, ITC, and CIC. They are ideal for people who require different sound settings in different environments, such as in noisy environments or when listening to music.
Disposable Hearing Aids:
Disposable hearing aids are suitable for people who require temporary or occasional use. They are less expensive than standard hearing aids and are available in various styles, including BTE, RIC, ITE, and CIC. Disposable hearing aids are ideal for people who want to try out a hearing aid before investing in a more expensive model or for people who only need a hearing aid for a short period of time.
At Hearing Excellence Clinic, we understand that choosing the right hearing aid can be overwhelming. That’s why we offer a personalized consultation to help you find the best type of hearing aid for your specific needs. Our audiologists will work with you to determine your hearing loss level, lifestyle, and preferences to recommend the right type of hearing aid.
Don’t let hearing loss hold you back from enjoying life to the fullest. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our audiologists and take the first step towards better hearing.
