there
are many factors to success with hearing aids. First, consider the technology in the instrument. There are three types of technology used today: conventional analog, digital hybrid, and pure digital.Conventional Analog - provides reasonably good hearing in quiet environments and one on one conversation. Limited in terms of compensating for tolerance problems and unusual loudness needs.
Digital Hybrid - use sophisticated computer circuitry to compensate for individual hearing needs. Makes automatic adjustments for loudness, meaning no volume control may be necessary.
Memory allows continuous adjustment as hearing loss increases.
Pure Digital
– the most sophisticated state-of-the-art hearing aids available. They can compensate for difficult hearing losses and can provide better hearing in noise than is possible with any other type of circuitry. These instruments are automatic and continually adjustable over time.
In addition to technology available there are a number of options or features that may be appropriate to consider. These include the number of frequency bands and channels, the number of programs, automatic
noise suppression, automatic feedback suppression, and directional microphones. Our hearing healthcare professionals will explain and demonstrate all available technologies and options so you can make an informed
decision.
Next consider the size or style of the hearing aid. Generally speaking the size of the instrument is going to correspond to the severity of the hearing loss. Also it is important to note
that all technologies are available in all sizes.
C.I.C. - completely in the canal instruments are the smallest size available and are virtually invisible when inserted.
I.T.C.
- in the canal instruments are very small and fit in the opening of the ear canal.
I.T.E. – in the ear instruments fill the bowl of the ear and up into the helix.
B.T.E. – behind the ear instruments fit over the ear and send the sound to the ear canal through a tube.
