Types of Hearing Aids

Most people with hearing loss can benefit from hearing aids. However, there are many different types of hearing aids to fit the degree of hearing loss that you are experiencing. During your appointment, Dr. Strauch will explain the advantages and benefits associated with each style and help determine which is best for your hearing loss, personal cosmetic preference, and lifestyle. To help you begin the process, the following information gives you a glimpse into all of our hearing aid styles that are available for you.

Some factors to take into consideration when it comes to the hearing aid fit and style include:

Degree of hearing loss
Power requirements
Physical abilities
Patient budget
Cosmetic preferences
Skin sensitivity
Medical considerations

By being aware of the above factors, the audiologist can help discover the best hearing aid style for you. The following information describes the different sizes and styles of hearing aids.

Invisible-In-The-Canal (IIC):

For mild to moderate hearing loss

Completely unseen in most ears
Custom fitting and make for you

Receiver-In-The-Canal (RIC):

For mild to moderate/severe hearing loss

Leaves the ear open

Reduced or no “plugged up” feeling
Sleek design barely visible when worn

Completely-In-The-Canal (CIC):

For mild to moderate hearing loss

Virtually undetectable
Placement within the ear cuts down on wind noise

In-the-Canal (ITC):

For mild to moderately severe hearing loss

Fits in the ear canal
Variety of technology level choices that previously required a larger aid

Half Shell In-The-Ear (ITE):

For mild to severe hearing loss

Fits directly into external ear
Inserted and adjusted with ease

Behind-The-Ear (BTE):

For almost all types of hearing loss

Custom earpiece molded to fit your outer ear
Discreet design

Full Shell In-The-Ear:

For mild to severe hearing loss

Fits directly into external ear
Inserted and adjusted with ease

The in-the-ear hearing aids are typically custom-fit and are available in different skin tones. With the in-the-ear hearing aids design being smaller, most are built for mild to moderate hearing with fewer customization needs.

The behind-the-ear hearing aids sit behind or on top of the outer ear. There is also a connection of tubing that routes down into the ear. These are available in different skin tone colors as well.

Also, for those who love pattern and colors, this design offers that option as well. While there are exceptions, as a general rule, a larger size of hearing aid leaves more room for customization and additional features.

The best approach for selecting the right hearing aid for you or a loved one is by visiting North Central Hearing Associates. We are ready to help you navigate your options!

Explore your hearing aid options with the team at
North Central Hearing Associates

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