When your audiologist advises you to consider wearing hearing aids, they may mention a number of different types to you. It’s beneficial to explore a range of options and to ensure you understand what kinds of benefits each kind offers before you make a decision. There are several different options out there for people who would benefit from using hearing aids.
One type of hearing aid available is the in-the-canal, or ITC, device. ITC hearing aids sit, as the name implies, inside of the ear canal. They are discreet, smaller devices suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss.
If your audiologist has advised you to consider wearing hearing aids following a hearing assessment, it’s beneficial to look at the pros and cons of each type and to work out which kind would be best suited to you. If you’re unsure, don’t forget that your audiologist is there to help.
Pros of ITC hearing aids
ITC hearing aids sit inside the ear canal, and they are a popular choice for those looking for a discreet means of improving their hearing. Benefits of ITC hearing aids include:
Visibility: ITC hearing aids are designed to nestle within the ear canal, and this means that they are incredibly discreet. Many people are reluctant to wear hearing aids because they don’t want other people to see them. If this scenario sounds familiar, an ITC hearing aid could represent an appealing option. With this kind of hearing aid, you can reap the rewards of improved hearing without any worries about other people being able to spot your hearing aid.
Easy to use with a phone: Many of us like to chat on the phone or engage in telephone conversations at work. ITC hearing aids are easy to use with telephones due to their location and size, and many modern devices are compatible with smartphones.
Size: ITC hearing aids are among the smallest models on the market. Individuals with dexterity issues may struggle to handle these.
Cons of ITC hearing aids
Versatility: ITC hearing aids are not suitable for all patients, including those who have more severe hearing loss. In some cases, these hearing aids are not powerful enough to produce optimum results, and they may not be a viable option for those prone to recurrent ear infections.
Harder to clean: The size of the hearing aid means that it’s more difficult to clean and look after an ITC hearing aid. It’s also slightly trickier to remove the hearing aid than a BTE (behind-the-ear) or an ITE (in-the-ear) hearing aid. As ITC hearing aids are smaller, it may also be more difficult to change the batteries, and the risk of dropping and damaging the hearing aid may be higher.
If you’re searching for a hearing aid that will suit you, don’t hesitate to find out more about the options out there and ask your audiologist for recommendations. They will be able to give you advice based on your level of hearing loss, your treatment expectations, and your personal preferences. Everybody is unique, and some people are looking for different features, perks, and benefits to others.
