Good news: people with hearing problems have more hearing aid choices accessible to them than any other generation before.
Among the most common types is the behind the ear hearing aid, which as with any other product has a variety of strengths and weaknesses. Keep reading for details that will help you determine if a BTE hearing aid is a good choice for you.
The design of behind-the-ear hearing aids means they are easier to recognize than most other types. These devices feature a banana-shaped plastic case that sits behind the ear which connects to a smaller component which is positioned within the outer ear. The main components of the hearing aid are located inside this case. This part holds all the electronics and batteries that allow the hearing aid to operate, along with the buttons that allow the user to select features and programs. The portion that sits inside the ear is known as the ear mold. This component is personalized for each wearer, allowing it to comfortably conduct the sounds that the case picks up into the ear.
BTE hearing aids have numerous distinct strengths. Because this type of device is larger than other models, it fits larger batteries, enabling stronger amplification and more time between charges. Extra room in the casing also means that the manufacturer can include additional features like a Bluetooth technology, directional microphones and telecoil. BTE hearing aids tend to be easier to handle than their smaller counterparts, making cleaning and battery replacement less difficult.
The most significant potential downside of a BTE hearing aid is its visibility. The exact same larger casing that gives the BTE so many strengths over other models which are worn entirely inside the ear also makes it challenging to disguise. For people who want to do as much as possible to hide the fact that they are wearing a hearing aid, it’s possible to conceal them by purchasing a case colored to match their complexion. BTE models also are more likely to pick up wind noise, but there are software and hardware features available in many units that help make this less of an issue.
If you think that the advantages of BTE hearing aids outnumber the disadvantages, this type of device may be suitable for you. Speak to your hearing professional to learn more about behind-the-ear hearing aids.
Hearing Healthcare of Virginia
Hearing Healthcare of Virginia is offering complimentary hearing screenings at its six locations in the Shenandoah Valley and Central Virginia – Charlottesville, Covington, Culpeper, Fishersville, Harrisonburg, and Lexington.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (888) 512-1164.
More online at www.HearVirginia.com.
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