Learn About Hearing Aid Start from Here
The 5 degrees of hearing loss are:
(1)Normal hearing (≤25 dB)
(2)Mild hearing loss (26-40dB): Quiet and soft conversations - or situations with only some background noise - may become difficult to understand.
(3)Moderate hearing loss (41-60 dB): Higher volume levels are required for radio and TV, and conversations accompanied by background noise become difficult to understand.
(4)Severe hearing loss (61-80 dB): Difficulties with speech and group conversations in both quiet and noisy environments. Comprehension is impossible without amplification.
(5)Profound hearing loss(greater than ≥81 dB): Difficult or impossible to hear and understand amplified devices or speech in any environment.
Behind-the-ear (BTE)
In BTE hearing aids, everything is contained inside a durable case that sits behind the outer ear. Sounds are transmitted to the user's ear directly via a small tube attached to a dome or earmold. BTE hearing aids have traditionally been the largest in size, and are also the best hearing aids for those needing the most power.
Receiver-in-the-canal (RIC)
Another type of hearing aid is RIC. These rest behind the outer ear, just like BTE hearing aids. The difference is that the
speaker sits inside the ear — in an ear mold or dome. It is separate from the rest of the device, and the case is then connected by a wire to the speaker. This type of hearing aid is traditionally smaller, lighter and more discreet than a BTE, but not powerful enough for wearers with profound hearing loss.
In-the-ear (ITE)
ITE hearing aids sit entirely inside the ear. There are various sub-styles in this category, from the large and more powerful Full Shell to the smaller CIC (Completely-In-Canal) and the virtually invisible IIC (Invisible-In-Canal).
What are OTC hearing aids?
The F.D.A’s newly created Over-The-Counter (OTC) hearing aid category is designed to be sold directly to the consumer, over the age of 18, with mild-to-moderate hearing loss. While the intent was to provide access to hearing aids at a lower price, the actual cost in terms of safety, customization and support could make this a costly experience for some.
What to consider when researching hearing aid types
1. Talk to an expert about hearing aids
2. Find a solution that reduces background noise and provides better speech understanding
3. Consider a solution that reduces feedback noise
4. Explore hearing aids with a 360-degree sound experience
5. Be aware of your personal hearing needs
Analog Hearing Aids
Analog Hearing Aids work similarly to a microphone hooked up to a speaker. Before the Digital Era, Analogue Hearing Aids are the only kind of Hearing Aids available to amplify the sound.