Hearing Aids: Small vs. Large - Which One is Right for You
There is no shortage of information out there when it comes to hearing aids. In fact, there may be too much information that may actually derail you from making the right purchasing decision. It really can get overwhelming with so many options out there to choose a type of hearing aid device that is ideal for you. Ontario Hearing Centers has the best selection of hearing aids in Rochester
That is the purpose of this article, to get you familiarized with digital hearing aids of different sizes. This will enable you to make the right decision and will also drastically help you improve your hearing and your lifestyle in general.
This is why we want to make things as clear as possible for any patients out there who may be confused as to what type and size of hearing aid device to get. So, you may be asking yourself, what exactly are the differences between the two types of Canada hearing aid devices? Does size really matter? Or does smaller inevitably mean better? Well, to help you, we are here to answer those particular questions.
We will also be listing the advantages and disadvantages of both types of hearing aid device sizes. It is very important that you understand the difference between the two sizes so that you can make an educated and informed decision when it comes to getting a device.
Larger Hearing Aids
When we think of hearing aids that are a bit on the larger side, we automatically assume them to be aging, old-fashioned, or simply just clunky. While it is true that hearing aids of the past used to be a lot bigger than they are today, it does not automatically mean that they were bad. We have made tremendous advances in hearing aid technology, and the devices that are available today are mostly much smaller. BUT, the larger ones still exist today, and that is not without reason.
What kind of hearing aid you will need will mostly depend on the type of hearing loss you have and the degree of hearing loss that you are suffering from. The general rule of thumb is that the more the hearing aid devices need to be more powerful, the more severe the hearing loss of the person is. This is where size comes into play; the more powerful the device is, the batteries required will also be equally larger.
When it comes to larger hearing aid devices, larger batteries are a very necessary evil. You need larger batteries in order to properly power the device. If the level of your hearing loss is very high, then you will most certainly need a larger hearing aid device.
One important thing that has to be pointed out here is that when we are talking about larger hearing devices, we mean larger in comparison to other hearing devices. The most common and the largest types of these devices require batteries that are smaller than a dime in size.
Smaller Hearing Aids
With technology advancing at rapid rates, the sizes of these hearing aid devices are also shrinking. This is absolutely perfect for those who have mild to moderate levels of hearing loss. These types of hearing aid devices also do not need large batteries. What we are trying to get at here is that the smaller the size of the battery, the smaller the hearing aid device. While the smaller versions of hearing aid devices are not suitable for everyone, it is still great for those who have mild hearing loss and want to keep their hearing aid device discreet.
This is the best option for you if you do not need hearing aids that require a large battery in order to function. With the smaller options of these devices, you can make sure that you can hear properly while also keeping the device unnoticeable to others around you.
One thing that must be mentioned here is that smaller does not automatically equate to better. These smaller variations of hearing aid devices are not meant for everyone, and that is completely fine.
The following are generally considered to be hearing aids that are of the smaller variety:
Invisible In The Canal (IIC)
Mini BTE With Slim Tube and Tip
In The Canal (ITC)
Invisible In The Canal (IIC)
Receiver In-Ear
There is a particular reason the IIC is called thus and termed as being invisible. When it is properly placed in the canals of the ear, the device becomes virtually unnoticeable, and thus it is termed as being “invisible.” This particular type of hearing aid device is best for those who have mild hearing loss or moderately severe hearing loss. This type of hearing aid device is normally worn in both ears.
Completely In The Canal (CIC)
This is similar to the IIC in the sense that this type of hearing aid device is also almost impossible to see. With a whole host of colors to choose from, this device will blend in perfectly with your ear.
In The Canal (ITC)
This type is best for those who do not mind showing a bit of their hearing aid device. This has the potential to help those with mild hearing loss or severe loss in hearing.
Mini BTE: Comes with Tip and Slim Tube
People who are suffering from hearing loss that is mild or moderate can make use of these types of hearing aid devices. These devices work by utilizing a small tube that is responsible for routing sounds through to the ear. The tube also is attached to a particular tip that is placed in the canal of the ear but does not block it. One big advantage of this device is that a lot of people do not even feel like they are wearing anything at all.
Receiver in Ear
This type of hearing aid device also goes by the name of Receiver in the Canal. These have a receiver that is placed straight into the ear, and it also comes with a case that sits behind the ears.
