Hearing Aids
A hearing aid is an electronic, battery-operated device that amplifies and shapes the sound to allow for improved communication. Hearing aids receive sound through a microphone, which then converts the sound waves to electrical signals. The amplifier increases the loudness of the signals and then sends the sound to the ear through a receiver. No matter what the size, style, or manufacturer, all hearing aids have the same basic components.
Different Types of Hearing Aids
There are four basic styles of hearing aids for people with sensorineural hearing loss:
Behind-the-Ear (BTE) hearing aids are worn behind the ear and are connected to a plastic earmold that fits inside the outer ear. The components are held in a case behind the ear. Sound travels from the aid through the earmold into the ear. BTE aids are used by people of all ages for mild to profound hearing loss. Poorly fitting BTE earmolds may cause feedback, a whistling sound caused by the fit of the hearing aid or by the buildup of earwax or fluid.
- For mild to profound hearing loss
- Larger two-piece hearing aid
- All components contained in a case that is worn behind the ear
- A hard-molded plastic case is worn behind the ear, and a custom-fit earmold extends into the ear
- Maybe barely visible depending on case color and earmold color
In-the-Ear (ITE) hearing aids fit completely in the outer ear and are used for mild to severe hearing loss. The case, which holds the components, is made of hard plastic. ITE aids can accommodate added technical mechanisms such as a telecoil, a small magnetic coil contained in the hearing aid that improves sound transmission during telephone calls. ITE aids can be damaged by earwax and ear drainage, and their small size can cause adjustment problems and feedback. They are not usually worn by children because the casings need to be replaced as the ear grows.
- For mild to severe hearing loss
- Larger one-piece hearing aid
- All components contained in a custom-fit, hard-molded plastic shell
- Fills the entire bowl of the ear
- Visible in the ear
In-The-Canal (ITC) aids are customized to fit the size and shape of the ear canal and are used for mild or moderately severe hearing loss.
- For mild to moderately/severe hearing loss
- Small one-piece hearing aid
- All components contained in a custom-fit, hard-molded plastic shell
- Fits outside the ear canal
- Slightly visible in the ear
Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC) hearing aids are largely concealed in the ear canal and are used for mild to moderately severe hearing loss. Because of their small size, canal aids may be difficult for the user to adjust and remove, and may not be able to hold additional devices, such as a telecoil. Canal aids can also be damaged by earwax and ear drainage. They are not typically recommended for children.
- For mild to moderately/severe hearing loss
- Very small one-piece hearing aid
- All components contained in a custom-fit, hard-molded plastic shell
- Fits inside the ear canal
- Barely visible or not visible at all in the ear canal
Commonally Asked Hearing Aid Questions
How does a hearing aid work?
All hearing aids are made of three basic parts: the microphone, the amplifier, and the receiver. The microphone gathers sounds and sends them to the amplifier. The amplifier converts the sounds into either electronic or digital signals, which are then sent to the receiver. The receiver is generally located right next to the ear drum, and it takes the signals and converts them back into sounds so that you can hear them. Larger hearing aids often have larger amplifiers, and they are generally used for more severe hearing loss.
Wearing a hearing aid embarrasses me, are there any discreet options?
Some hearing aids are actually very small. The completely in the canal versions fit inside the ear canal and can only barely be seen. However, most forms of severe hearing loss will need a slightly larger hearing aid. You should talk to your doctor to find out which style is right for you.
How much does the average hearing aid cost?
Hearing aids do tend to be expensive. On average, hearing aids prices can range anywhere from Rs. 30,000 for cheap hearing aids to over Rs. 1,30,000. Hearing aid prices depend on the brand and the model of hearing amplifier that you choose. Refurbished or used hearing aids are often less expensive than new ones. Some companies offer disposable hearing aids, and these can be less than Rs. 60,000.
Will private insurance cover my hearing aids?
Most insurance providers do not cover the cost of hearing aids. However, a few states require that insurers must cover the cost, like Rhode Island and Arkansas. These states require that both adults and children are covered. A few more states require that insurance companies cover the cost of hearing aids for children but not for adults.
How often do the batteries in my hearing aid need to be replaced?
Hearing aids batteries are very small, and, as a result, they do not last for a very long time. The smaller your hearing aid is, the shorter the battery life will be (because the battery is smaller). Also, digital hearing aids will consume batteries more quickly than analog hearing aids. In general, hearing aid batteries last about a week. Some will only last four or five days, and some will go as long as two weeks. So it is a good idea to have a lot of hearing aid batteries on hand, and you should store them in a cool, dry place.