Hearing Aids


A hearing aid is an electronic, battery operated device that receives sound through a small microphone and amplifies it to counteract the effects of hearing loss. If you suspect you may be suffering from hearing loss, visit your physician to receive a referral to an audiologist or otolaryngologist, who will perform an examination and hearing test to determine if you need a hearing aid. It is not recommended to purchase a hearing aid without the advice of a specialist.

Types of Hearing Aids

There are several different types of hearing aids. Your doctor will be able to help you choose which is most appropriate for your needs. Before purchasing a hearing aid, make sure that the manufacturer provides a 30-60 day trial period, so you can return the aid if it is unsuitable.

In-the-Ear (ITE) hearing aids have a hard plastic case that fits completely in the outer ear. Some have optional features such as a telecoil, a device that improves sound transmission during telephone calls. ITE aids are used for mild to severe hearing loss, but are not generally recommended for children because the casings need to be replaced as the ear grows. They can be damaged by earwax and ear drainage and sometimes suffer from adjustment problems and feedback due to their small size.

Behind-the-Ear (BTE) hearing aids are worn behind the ear. A plastic earmold fits inside the outer ear and connects to the components, which are held in a case behind the ear. BTE aids are used for mild to profound hearing loss and can be used by all ages. It is important for BTE aids to be properly fitted, as poorly fitting BTE earmolds can cause feedback.

Canal Aids fit into the ear canal. There are two sizes of canal aids. In-the-Canal (ITC) hearing aids are customized to fit into the ear canal. Completely-in-Canal (CIC) hearing aids are mostly concealed within the ear canal. Both sizes are used for mild to moderately severe hearing loss. Because of their small size, canal aids can be difficult to adjust and remove and are not recommended for children. Extra devices such as the telecoil may not fit within the casing. Canal aids can be damaged by earwax and ear drainage.

Body Aids are attached to a belt or pocket and connected to the ear by a wire. They are used by people with profound hearing loss, but because of their large size, usually only when other types of hearing aid cannot be used.

Hearing Aid Circuitry Styles

Hearing aids also have different internal mechanisms, which are not dependant on the type of aid.

Analog/Adjustable: The audiologist performs tests to determine your specifications and requirements and a laboratory builds a hearing aid to these specifications. This is generally the least expensive type of mechanism.

Analog/Programmable: The audiologist uses a computer to program your hearing aid. Analog/programmable hearing aids may be programmed to have more than one setting, which the wearer can change to accommodate different listening environments.

Digital/Programmable: Digital circuitry, which is also programmed via computer, provides the most flexibility for the audiologist to make individualized adjustments for the hearing aid, but is generally the most expensive type of mechanism.

Choosing and Adjusting to a Hearing Aid

When deciding on an appropriate type and style of hearing aid, you and you audiologist should consider your hearing ability, work and home activities, physical limitations, medical conditions, and cosmetic preferences, as well as your budget.

Most people take time to adjust to new hearing aids and become truly proficient at their use. Your audiologist will instruct you on how to adjust and care for your aid. You should practice listening in a non-stressful environment to help yourself become accustomed to your new hearing aids.

Many people are disappointed to learn that hearing aids rarely return normal hearing levels. At first, background noise may seem too loud and distracting, for example. However, hearing aids are invaluable tools to help correct the physical and social effects of hearing loss.

By Kerry Given           


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