Advantages and Disadvantages of Wearing Hearing Aids

If you have difficulty hearing, a hearing aid can help. But what are the best aids for your hearing? What Are the Side Effects of a Hearing Aid? Also, what are the benefits and drawbacks of wearing a hearing aid device? To answer these questions, it first helps to define what constitutes as a hearing aid: a hearing aid is adevice intended to help those with hearing loss by making sounds more audible with a microphone through amplification.

Here are a few things to know about hearing aids:

The pros and cons of hearing aids really depend on the type of hearing aid that you are wearing. Some of the hearing aid advantages and disadvantages include these:

Completely in the Canal (CIC)

A completely-in-the-canal hearing aid fits inside the canal of your ear, so it is small and not very visible to others. Generally, these are used for those with mild to moderate hearing loss. This type of hearing aid uses small batteries with a short life, and do not offer a lot of extra features or options. These types of aids can become clogged with ear wax at times.

In the Canal (ITC)

An in-the-canal (ITC) hearing aid is made to fit your ears specifically, and they are typically used for adults with mild to moderate loss of hearing. These are less visible than other styles and also can become clogged with ear wax.

In the Ear (ITE)

An in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aid can be worn by those with mild to severe cases of hearing loss, and they are a bit larger so they can accommodate more features and options. These are easier to manage due to the size and they have a battery with a fairly long life. These devices tend to pick up more background noise,like wind, and can also become clogged with wax.  

Behind the Ear (BTE)

A behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aid is quite visible as it hooks over the top of your ear, sitting behind your actual ear. There is a tube that runs into your ear canal. These types of aids are usually prescribed for wearers of all ages,including kids, with varying levels of hearing loss. These feature more amplification and directional microphones and could potentially come with are chargeable battery.

Receiver in Canal or Receiver in the Ear (RIC and RITE)

The receiver-in-canal (RIC) and receiver-in-the-ear (RITE) types of devices fit behind the ear but it is a wire that extends into the wearer’s ear canal. These are visible to others but have control options that make them appealing. They are susceptible to becoming clogged by ear wax, as well.

Open Fit

Finally,an open-fit hearing aid is usually a viable option for those with mild to moderate hearing loss at high frequencies. The shape is dome-like with a tube that goes into the wearer’s ear canal; this style is not as prone to becoming clogged since most of the aid is outside the ear.

There are plenty of other features and options to consider when buying a hearing aid or device. Here are a few:

• Noise reduction is a common feature on most hearing aids, though the amount may vary.
• Directional microphones are aligned on the device for improved amplification and transmission of sound. This helps in situations with a lot of background din.
• Rechargeable batteries curb the costs and increase the convenience of wearing hearing aids.
• Wireless connectivity allows your hearing aids an interface with certain Bluetooth-compatible devices, such as cellphones, music players, computers, and televisions.
• Remote controls are convenient and allow you to adjust without handling your hearing aid.

Before buying any hearing aid or device, make sure that you have spoken to a doctor about your hearing and that you have had an audiologist assess your hearing.This will ensure you get the right aid and best amplification possible. Also,ask about a trial period for your new hearing aid as well as any warranty that may be available.

Adjustment Period

There will be a period of adjustment as you become accustomed to your new hearing aid;give yourself time. Gradually, you will get used to the amplification and sounds when wearing your device. Use these tips for acclimating to your new normal:

• Hearing aids improve but do not restore hearing loss.
• Try your hearing aid out in different environments to test the acoustics and amplification that it provides.
• Consider connecting with others that wear hearing aids through a support group or other network.
• Follow up with your audiologist and keep them aware of any issues you are experiencing with your device. They may be able to make adjustments that improve your overall satisfaction with your new hearing aid.
• Wear your hearing aid regularly, maintain and care for it, too.

There are advantages and disadvantages to wearing a hearing aid or device, but the benefits far outweigh any of the concerns. Talk to your doctor about a referral to an audiologist if you have difficulty hearing.

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