The basic function of a hearing aid is to detect and process a sound, convert it through an electrical signal, and then transmit the sound into the ear in a manner which allows the end user to understand what is being said as opposed to just hearing sound. This process happens within microseconds so that the end user experiences virtually no delay. Digital hearing aids can help to distinguish between those sounds that need to be heard, for example speech, and those that are unwanted, such as background noise. As with all levels of technology, some do this better than others.
There are a wide variety of hearing aids available. Things have moved on considerably from the traditional over-the-ear design and choosing the right one for your needs and lifestyle is important if you are to gain the maximum benefit from your new hearing aid.
An individuals’ preference is always listened to and taken into account when discussing which style of aid the individual will wear. However, certain factors have a direct bearing on which style is the most appropriate. They can include
· The type and degree of hearing loss.
· Any physiological disorder of the ear.
· The actual anatomy of the ear canal, in relation to size or shape.
· The dexterity of the end user and their ability to handle small devices and small batteries.
As your Audiologist, it is my responsibility to advise and guide you on the most appropriate fitting, taking all these factors into account.
HEARING AID STYLES
Behind The Ear
The most traditional style of hearing aid, the Behind the Ear (BTE) hearing aid, hooks over the ear with the microphone located behind the ear. A tube connects the microphone to the earpiece, which is customised to fit the individual’s ear, and which sits in the ear canal. BTE’s are suitable for all levels of hearing loss.
Modern designs of the BTE are much more streamlined and less visible than traditional designs.
Receiver in Canal (RIC) or Receiver in the Ear (RITE)
These designs are also similar to a BTE, but these have a wire rather than a tube connecting the microphone to the speaker. These are incredibly discreet when fitted and offer a very natural sound. However, it should be noted but they can prone to earwax clogging the speaker, making cleaning them properly particularly important.
CUSTOM MADE INSTRUMENTS
Invisible in the Canal (IIC) & Completely in the Canal (CIC)
These are custom made device that sits, as the name says, completely in the ear canal, making them extremely discreet and almost invisible.
Its location means that it’s less likely to pick up wind noise, but the very small size of this style means that it has very small batteries with a shorter life span, and which can be tricky to handle, so for individuals with dexterity issues this may prove a challenge. They are unsuitable for individuals with ears that discharge.
In the Ear (ITE)
In the Ear designs, or ITE’s, are available in three styles: one that sits partly in the canal, known as ITC, a full shell which fills the bowl-shaped area of the ear; and a half shell, which fits only the lower half.
The ITE models include more features than smaller hearing aids, and they can provide a better solution where dexterity is an issue as they can be easier to handle. The larger battery means that they have a longer battery life than smaller devices. However, they are less discreet than CIC or ITC hearing aids and may pick up more wind noise.
Other features
In addition to their appearance, hearing aids can vary dramatically in terms of features:
- Rechargeable batteries: these remove the need to fiddle with small batteries making the hearing aid easier to use.
- Directional microphones: these are designed to detect sounds coming from in front of the listener, while reducing sounds from other directions. These are better for use in noisy environments.
- Telecoils: telecoils can be used anywhere there is an induction loop system, or with telecoil-compatible telephones for improved sound.
- Wireless connectivity: many modern hearing aids can now wirelessly connect to Bluetooth compatible devices, such as mobile phones, televisions and music centres. An additional compatible device may need to be installed for this feature.
- Variable programmes: some hearing aids offer pre-programmed settings designed to work better in different environments for an improved hearing experience.
- Environmental noise control: hearing can be difficult in noisy environments, even with hearing aids, Some hearing aids are able to cancel out background noise. Wind noise can be an issue with several types of hearing aid and some offer wind noise reduction.
- Synchronisation: many people with hearing loss wear hearing aids in both ears. Synchronisation allows the aids to be programmed to function together so that any changes to one hearing aid will automatically occur in the second hearing aid.