subject: What Are The Different Types And Styles Of Hearing Aids On The Market Today? [print this page] Essentially there are two main types of hearing aids, analog and digital.
Analog- These devices work by converting the sound waves into an electrical signal that is then amplified throughout the device. The manufacturer has the capability of programming the analog hearing aids to make sure they are able to work in a number of settings. You have the power to change the programs depending on where you are during the day. It doesn't matter if you are in a restaurant or a crowded stadium because there is a setting for just about everything you can imagine.
Digital - These work by converting the sound waves into a numerical code that resembles a computer code, which then turns around and amplifies them. This specific code includes information about how loud or pitchy the tone is, which provides the user with a lot more flexibility to adjust the unit to their particular environment, as well as where the sound is coming from. You can expect to spend more on these units than their analog counterparts.
At this point in time, there are three main types of hearing aids, which all offer different features in terms of:
Size
Capability to amplify the sound waves
Location inside or around the ear
Beyond just that, there are also three main styles when it comes to hearing aid units:
Completely In Canal -These devices go into your ear canal and are designed specifically to your specifications. CIC units are smaller and almost invisible to the naked eye because of how well they are hidden in the ear canal. Either one of the units can be used for people with mild to moderately severe degrees of hearing loss.
Due to the nature of their size, they are a lot harder to adjust and remove.
In the Ear - These hearing aids fit entirely inside of your outer ear within a hard plastic housing that helps to hold all of the electronics together. They are best suited for those who have mild to profound hearing loss. Children whose ears are still growing will not be able to benefit from this particular model hearing aid.
Behind the Ear - This model houses all of its components inside of a heard plastic housing located behind the ear. A plastic mold fits nicely inside of the ear and works to direct the sound into the ear and improve overall quality of sound for the user. One of the newest additions is the mini behind the ear unit, which fits completely behind the ear. It works through a small tube that reaches into the canal. You will not have to worry about your voice coming across as muffled or any excessive buildup of earwax.
Anyone can use this particular model of hearing aid, regardless of how old you are or how severe your hearing loss is.
