What are hearing Aids

What are Hearing Aids

Hearing aids are smart high tech devices that help you hear if you suffer from hearing loss. They intelligently implify your surrounding sounds (such as conversations. TV shows, or the radio) to help you communicate and participate in everyday situations

How does a hearing aid work?

Sound is carried across three different hearing aid parts:

  • Microphone - receives sound waves and converts them into electrical signals
  • Amplifier - Increases the strength of the audio signals and sends them on to the ear
  • Receiver / speaker - converts the amplified electrical audio signals into sound and sends them further into the ear canal

Types Of Hearing Aids

1. Behind the ear (BTE)

As indicated by the name, behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids have a design that allows the main body of the hearing aid to sit hidden behind the ear. A clear, discreet wire or tube is then connected to an ear mould or dome and placed comfortably inside the ear canal. BTE hearing aids are the most popular types of hearing aids on the market today. Recently, they have become smaller, more adaptable, and much more powerful.

2. Receiver-in-the-ear hearing aids

The RITE and mini-RITE hearing aid is placed discreetly behind the ear and is connected by a thin wire which places the speaker or receiver inside the opening of the ear or ear canal. • Suitable for most types of hearing loss • Smaller and less noticeable than traditional BTE hearing aids • Rechargeable battery options available • Bluetooth enabled connection to other devices wirelessly • Natural sound quality and more comfortable fit

3. In-the-canal (ITC) hearing aids

ITC hearing aids sit in the lower third of your external ear and are custommade to fit your ear canal shape. • Offer longer battery life than smaller styles • Option for wireless streaming/Bluetooth in some models • Balance out background noise (via a directional microphone) • Are easy to insert and remove • Option for push button controls • Are slightly larger than completely-in-the-canal hearing aids

4. Completely-in-the-canal (CIC) hearing aids

Completely-in-the-canal hearing aids (CIC) were the smallest hearing aids available before the IIC hearing aid was introduced. The CIC is still discrete, however typically the face plate of the hearing aid can be visible at some angles. • Are custom-made to fit discreetly inside the ear canal • Are mostly invisible to those around you • Can accommodate an optional button that allows you to manually control settings for different environments • Can be vulnerable to earwax and moisture build-up

5. Invisible-in-the-canal hearing aids

completely, invisible. Tiny cords are attached to the hearing aid so that you can remove them easily. • Adapt automatically to the sound environment • Have a discreet style • Can be vulnerable to earwax and moisture build-up • Are better for minimising wind noise (due to their placement) • Do not have a directional microphone • Can be difficult to adjust for those with dexterity issues

Benefits of Hearing Aids

  • Hear clearly in most situations and enjoy life more
  • Be able to participate in every conversation
  • Avoid stress and discomfort cause by impaired hearing
  • Avoid having to ask people to repeat themselves
  • Hear phone conversations effortlessly
  • Listen to Tv in same volume as other people around you