Several options are available for hearing loss, ranging from medical treatment to listening devices, such as hearing aids. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of hearing loss. For age-related hearing loss, there is no cure, but hearing aids and other listening devices help treat the problem and improve quality of life.
Hearing Aids
Our compassionate and experienced team will work with you to match your lifestyle and preferences with a hearing aid that will also meet your specific hearing needs. The basic components of a hearing aid include a microphone, an amplifier, a receiver, and a tiny processor.
Choosing a hearing aid is based on several factors:
- severity of hearing loss
- appearance of the hearing aids
- cost
- ability to handle small devices
- daily lifestyle
Picking out a hearing aid is not easy and we aim to provide a relaxed atmosphere to answer questions and provide our patients with hearing treatment, not to just “sell” them hearing aids.
Taking care of your hearing aids requires keeping up with regular maintenance. Our team is here to provide regular maintenance as well ensuring your hearing aids stay intact and function properly at all times.
Types of Hearing Aids
Hearing aids come in a variety of styles and sizes to fit every kind of lifestyle and ability.
Most patients have a positive experience with hearing aids but of course, if you don’t like them, you won’t wear them and your hearing goes untreated.
Hearing aids have come a long way in the last decade or so. Powerful yet small and discrete is ideal and most hearing aids can now hide completely in the ear canal. Your specific hearing loss lifestyle and listening needs will be considered when picking out a hearing aid. The latest technology is always available at The ENT Centers of North Texas.
There are 2 basic types of hearing aids:
In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids
This type of hearing is custom-fitted and worn in the ear canal. ITE come in a variety of different skin tones so they easily blend in with the natural ear. Some ITE fit deeply within the ear canal and are practically invisible, while others are closer to the outer ear but are usually only visible to those looking for a hearing aid.
Types of In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Invisible in the canal (IIC)
- Completely in the canal (CIC)
- In-the-canal (ITC) hearing aids
- Low-profile hearing aids
Most ITE hearing aids are best for those with mild to moderate hearing loss. They can be difficult to handle if your dexterity is not great and those that go far into the ear canal may not have volume or other controls. Otherwise, they minimize the appearance of wearing a hearing aid and are ideal for those with an active lifestyle.
Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids
BTE types of hearing aids mainly rest behind or on top of the outer ear and connect to a custom-fitted ear mold by tubing that carries sound from the outside in. BTE comes in a variety of different colors to blend in with hair or skin tone, or if so desired flashier designs for personal expression.
Types of Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Receiver in the ear (RITE)
- RITE hearing aid
- An open-fit RITE hearing aid
Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids are great for all degrees of hearing loss, including profound hearing loss. They typically have wireless connectivity and advanced technology. While more noticeable than in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids, BTE is less susceptible to moisture damage, and the custom-fit earmold can be replaced separately if needed.
Both types, ITE and BTE typically come with batteries that are either rechargeable.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hearing Aids
What is the best hearing aid for me?
When selecting a hearing aid, it’s important to consider a number of factors. To begin with, you must consider the degree of your hearing loss. Most in-the-ear hearing aids are best suited for mild to moderate hearing impairment while the behind-the-ear styles accommodate more severe degrees of hearing. Then consider your lifestyle and how visible you want the hearing aid to be. How well you can handle a tiny little device, how often you want to replace batteries and have wireless connectivity also come into play. The knowledgeable and caring team in our audiology department can easily help you determine what type and style of hearing aid is best for you.
What if I only have hearing loss on one side?
Also known as unilateral hearing loss, those with single-sided deafness have options as well. These include a CROS or BiCROS hearing aid or a bone-anchored hearing system.
How do I know if I need a cochlear implant?
Cochlear implants or a bone-anchored hearing system may be required for those whose hearing is not improved with hearing aids. The specialists at The ENT Centers of North Texas can help determine if a cochlear implant or other hearing system is best for you
We know considering a hearing aid can be overwhelming to say the least. Don’t fret, contact our office today where our experienced, patient and caring staff can help you find the right hearing aid for you. Call today!