There comes a time in many people’s lives when they have to consider the need for a hearing aid. Some of us will see our hearing deteriorate with age until it becomes difficult to manage without some sort of intervention. Others will see the problem develop far more rapidly due to medical issues. Either way, everyone deserves to find a solution for their hearing problems that works for them. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all system, especially when you work with a hearing specialist who understands the full range of devices, the potential benefits, and their possible downside. With the right expert care, you can find hearing aids that suit you. Here is a quick guide to some of the different options available and their pros and cons. You can then use this to help you narrow down your choices and get the perfect fit.
Behind The Ear Hearing Aids
The most well-known option is the behind-the-ear hearing aid. These are the ones that have a mold within the ear and a device that sits around the back. They are common because of their effectiveness and low cost. Regardless of their budget and the extent of their hearing problems, most people can get an affordable solution. An external device like this is also easy to use and fit, especially if you have any dexterity issues. All you need to do is put the device in place, turn it on, and ensure the volume is at the right level. This accessibility also makes these aids more user-friendly when changing batteries. An unavoidable issue with wearing hearing aids is the battery dying mid-conversation, so it helps if you can replace the battery without any fuss.
A frequently cited reason that people dislike these devices is that they are visible. Those who don’t want to make their hearing loss public knowledge can feel self-conscious with these devices behind their ears. The devices have become much more streamlined and better looking in recent years, but are far from invisible. Of course, some users will like the new designs, and it’s worth asking what options and colors are available. These designs can be particularly beneficial for teenagers looking to embrace their hearing loss and their individuality rather than hide it.
Many users find that exposure to the elements and nearby sensations makes these devices more sensitive and increases hearing problems. They can pick up wind noise or whistle when they get close to another person. This is always going to be an issue when you have a device that’s continually exposed. Updated technology means that the problems aren’t as bad as they once were, but they may still be too frustrating for all new users.
In The Ear Hearing Aids
If you’re completely against the idea of having a visible hearing aid behind the ear, you can have something in the ear instead. One immediately noticeable benefit of having hearing aids in the ear is that they are a lot more discreet. You can put them in your ear in the morning and go about your day without it being obvious that you have any sort of hearing aid at all. You’re also not going to get the same amount of wind noise you would with a standard over-the-ear hearing aid. These devices could also turn out to be more comfortable if you don’t like the feeling of having the full external earpiece and mold in your ear.
The downside to this approach is that they can get more difficult to use and are also harder to keep clean. Anything that sits within the ear will end up with ear wax on it. A healthy level of ear wax is good for our ears but not for the device. So, you’re going to have to spend some time cleaning the device and its crevices to make sure it is as functional as possible. As for the ease of use, having something sitting in your ear does make it more difficult to get it in place and adjust the volume as needed.
In The Canal Hearing Aids
If in-the-ear hearing aids sound like a better choice than behind-the-ear models, you might also want to take a look at in-the-canal hearing aids. These models sit more deeply in the ear, within the canal, making them even less noticeable to other people than the in-the-ear models. There are also options known as invisible in the canal hearing aid, which are even more challenging to detect.
Potential problems here include availability and ease of use. Not all hearing centers are going to have these options, so you’ll want to find a supplier of quality hearing aids in Belfast with the full range. If you find them, you have to consider how you will keep them clean and if you can comfortably fit them into your ear. There’s also going to be the factor of cost, as the most sophisticated aids will be more expensive. Again, when you work with a high-end hearing center, you’re more likely to find an option that works within your budget.
Which Type Of Hearing Aid Is Right For You?
The best approach when choosing hearing aids is to discuss the various options with your hearing center team. They will discuss the options with you, let you see the devices and how they work, and give you all the important information you need for an informed choice. You can also discuss how to care for the devices, deal with spare batteries, and set up appointments for future checks and additional treatments. It might sound scary right now to consider using a hearing aid, but it doesn’t have to be. Once you find the model that you feel is the most effective, comfortable, and user-friendly, you’ll get used to it in no time. Soon enough, you’ll find that your hearing problems are a thing of the past and that you now have an expert care team to help you through the years ahead.