Finding it difficult to hear is common enough. It becomes a distinct problem when you find yourself cupping your hands behind your ears and straining to catch every word. You may experience hearing loss when trying to watch your favorite TV series o listen to music as well. No worries! The specialist doctor may diagnose your condition and advise you to use a hearing aid to compensate for the hearing loss.
The audiologist will examine you and provide you with the right hearing aid. However, you may be a trifle flabbergasted on learning that such hearing aids are available in numerous types, sizes, and shapes. Even the way to wear each device is distinct that is sure to add to your confusion. However, most doctors will recommend a behind the ear or over the ear hearing aid when your hearing loss is mild to moderate.
Do not feel pressurized to accept a specific model or type of hearing aid though. Instead, you may explain the required aspects such as your lifestyle, your habits, and athletic concerns. I the end it must be your own decision and you are free to opt for an alternative if you find the original choice of device to be inadequate.
What you need to know about the over the ear hearing aid?
It is interesting to know that this particular type of hearing aid is highly popular and widely used by the older generation. They can be adapted to cater to all types of hearing loss ranging from mild to profound without any trouble. The only complaint against use of such devices is their size that is a trifle larger than the new, modern models of hearing aids. This can also be an advantage as the big sized hearing aids are capable of housing advanced technology and be adjusted easily. Their battery life can be far more in comparison to the tiny hearing aids that remain completely hidden in public.
It is further important to know that the over-the-ear aid is a specific type of behind the ear hearing aid that is worn on the external ear. The most traditional design of such hearing aids includes a durable plastic casing that is placed behind the ear. However, you will be surprised to find a thin tube or wire that goes into your ear and is fitted to the external ear canal. A few models also use a custom ear mold instead of the wire/tube.
You may also find the hearing aids frequently referred to as Receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aids. However, these are decidedly small in size than the traditional behind the ear or over the ear devices. This type of hearing aid is simple to insert into the ear and generally preferred by people who have to go out to work daily.
You would be fully assured of the following when using an over the ear hearing aid:
- Comfort
- Aesthetics
- Low Maintenance
- Long Battery Life
While the choice of hearing aids is entirely personal, it is advisable to consult a doctor and audiologist before choosing and wearing it.
