Styles of Hearing Aids

There are several different styles of modern hearing aids.

Styles of Hearing Aids

In-the-Canal (ITC), Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC), and Invisible-in-the-Canal (IIC)
These styles of hearing aids fit partly or completely inside the ear canal. They are usually chosen because of their cosmetic appeal. Click here for examples of "invisible" hearing aids.

Behind-the-Ear (BTE)

This style of hearing aid rests behind the ear. The hearing aid is encased in a small plastic shell with a small tube that rests inside the ear canal.

Receiver-in-the-Ear (RITE) or Receiver-in-the-Canal (RIC)

Similar to the BTE, this style of hearing aid rests behind the ear in a small, lightweight plastic case. However, an actual receiver rests inside the ear canal and is connected to the hearing device with a small plastic tube. This receiver gives the hearing device extra amplification and is ideal for adults with mild to profound hearing loss.

Analog and Digital Hearing Aids

Many long-time users of amplification are hesitant to convert to digital technology.

Several hearing aid manufacturers recognize this and now enable the programming of a digital hearing aid to mimic that of an analog hearing aid for those who just can't get used to the "digital" sound.

Digital aids are quieter, have a wider frequency response, and are almost universally judged to be clearer. Both types of hearing aids come in a variety of styles.

Which style of hearing aid is best suited to compensate for an individual's particular type of hearing loss?

How do you pick the right device?

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