Pros and Cons of ITE Hearing Aids

There are plenty of different options when it comes to choosing different hearing aids. Devices come with different levels of amplification and a host of features to make them best suited to your needs and lifestyle. Amongst the options are different types of hearing aid, including in the ear or ITC devices. As the name suggests, these sit in the entrance to the outer ear. But what factors should you consider before choosing one?

Pros

ITE hearing aids are one of the most popular types of devices, considered just as often as their BTE cousins. Here are a few reasons you might want to consider them too:

• Though it can differ from device to device, ITE hearing aids generally have much better sound quality and amplification when compared to behind the ear devices. This is due to their use of twin microphones, making them well suited to a wide range of hearing loss and especially good for those with severe or profound hearing loss.
• Smaller than BTE devices, ITE hearing aids are also more discreet and tend to be easier to hide, making them a popular choice for aesthetic purposes.
• As small as they are, ITE hearing aids fit snugly in the ear, provided that you choose one that fits with the help of your audiologist. They’re custom-designed based on a mold of your own ear, so they should fit perfectly.
• The recessed design of the average ITE hearing aid means that they don’t get in the way of your ear. This means they can be much more convenient when, for instance, wearing a headset or using a smartphone.

Cons

All hearing aids have their pros, but they also have their cons. ITE devices are by no means an exception. Here are a few drawbacks worth keeping in mind:

• Because ITE hearing aids rest in the opening of the ear canal, they are exposed to a lot more earwax, as well as general moisture. As a result, wearers have to be careful to regularly clean it and prevent the build-up of wax.
• If you are proactive in your maintenance, this shouldn’t be as prevalent an issue for you, but many users do experience a more prevalent need for repairs. To avoid this, make sure you talk to your audiologist about maintenance and cleaning to keep the device in good health for longer.
• The design of in the ear devices means that the microphone and receiver tend to be closer to one another than in BTE devices. While this is a problem that can be remedied, a slight knock out of place can produce feedback, a piercing, unpleasant sound.

When it comes to choosing your hearing aid, it’s always wise to do it with the help of the audiologist. They have the knowledge of your individual needs, as well as a series of preferences and lifestyle considerations you can help them make. Combining that with their knowledge of the hearing aid market, your audiologist can help you find the best option for you as an individual.