There are several hearing aid styles available, and choosing the right one for you will depend on several factors. There are two major categories of hearing aids available to you: in-the-ear (ITE) devices, which sit in the bowl of the ear (concha) or ear canal, and behind-the-ear (BTE) devices. BTE hearing aid styles account for more than three-fourths of sales, but that doesn’t mean they’re right for everyone. Here’s a closer look at the hearing aid styles available to Ohio residents:

In The Ear (ITE)

ITE hearing aids sit in the bowl-shaped portion of the ear (concha), filling either partially or fully depending upon the earmold you choose. These hearing aids have all electronic components housed within the custom-made plastic casing. They are adjustable using buttons conveniently located on the exterior of the device and are suitable for mild to severe hearing loss.

In The Canal (ITC)

ITC devices are slightly smaller than ITE styles and sit a bit deeper within the ear canal. They perform similarly to the larger hearing aids, through they use a slightly smaller battery and have smaller controls. ITE hearing aids are suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss.

Completely In the Canal (CIC)

CIC hearing aids are smaller that ITC hearing aids and sit a bit more deeply in the canal. These devices are typically nearly invisible. Since they are placed into the ear canal, they must be removed using a tiny cord that protrudes slightly out of the canal. They are appropriate for patients with mild to moderate hearing loss.

Invisible In the Canal (IIC)

This hearing aid style is the smallest available removable hearing aid. Since IIC devices are so tiny, they offer fewer features and functions. However, these devices also utilize the ear’s natural shape for good sound localization and directionality. IIC devices require good manual dexterity and are appropriate for most patients with mild to moderate hearing loss.

Extended Wear (Lyric)

Lyric hearing aids are implanted deep within the ear canal and are worn 24 hours a day for the lifespan of the battery. Lyric hearing aids typically last about four months and are purchased on an annual subscription basis. These hearing aids are great for active Akron residents who don’t want to take the time to change batteries or clean their devices each night. Talk to your audiologist to learn more.

Behind The Ear (BTE)

BTE hearing aids are worn behind the ear rather than in the canal. Traditional style BTEs are less popular that open fit styles, but they are often a good option for seniors with dexterity issues as well as children. All electronic components are housed in a casing that rests behind the ear, and sound is delivered to the ear via a small, clear tube that stretched over the top of the ear. BTE devices are considered for all types and severities of hearing loss.

Receiver In The Ear (RITE)

RITE hearing aids are the most popular style available because they utilize an open fit design. Like BTE hearing aids, RITE devices house electronic components in a casing behind the ear. The receiver, however, is contained in a tiny earmold that sits within the ear canal. This receiver doesn’t block, or occlude, the canal. These devices only amplify sounds at frequencies the wearer struggles to hear, while other sounds are allowed to pass into the ear canal without amplification. This creates a much more natural listening experience. RITE hearing aids are suitable for mild to severe hearing loss.