Device For Mild Hearing Loss

Hearing aids are devices that assist in the auditory function. Such devices are prescribed for individuals who suffer from loss of their hearing ability. But not everyone has a severe hearing problem or loss of complete hearing ability. For most people, it's just a mild hearing problem. In fact there are millions of Americans who have mild hearing loss as opposed to the severe or complete form of the disability.

A hearing aid basically works by amplifying sound to suit your auditory level. Loss in hearing ability means that you don't listen to sounds at the same level as others with normal hearing. This means that no matter what level your hearing loss may be at, if it is correctly diagnosed and identified, a hearing aid can help you significantly.

There are different types of hearing devices designed to suit individual preferences. Each has its advantages and limitations. Here's a brief description of each basic type;

1. Behind the Ear Hearing Aids (BTE): this design is the most widely used one. It comes with a hard plastic case which is worn behind the ear. This outer piece is attached to an inner earmold that goes into your ear. These hearing aids are useful for a wide range for hearing loss conditions. They also aren't apparent or conspicuous, since they go behind the ear. The problems with this device may arise if you wear glasses, because it disturbs the balance of the arms of the glasses. Also, you may feel some discomfort when listening to the phone since the device behind the ears will make it difficult to place the headset next to it.

2. In the Ear Hearing Aids (ITE): this is a custom made hearing aid that is designed to fit into your ear. These are mostly used for mild or moderate hearing loss. Some In the Ear devices also come with additional features. For instance a telecoil, which can make telephone conversations easier. ITE devices aren't suitable for young children, because as the child grows the shape of the ear changes and a new hearing device has to be designed.

3. In the Canal Hearing Aids (ITC): this kind of hearing aid is designed to fit the shape of the ear canal. This too is a device for mild or moderate hearing loss. Taking phone calls is not a problem with this device but you may feel discomfort with the device inside your ear. The knobs that work the device are rather small and require a degree of practice before you can really get a hang of them.

4. Completely in the Canal Hearing Aids (CIC): this is the smallest hearing made as yet. It goes way back into your ear canal. Completely in the canal hearing aids don't have manual controls. Even though they are used for mild to moderate hearing loss, the devices are very sensitive. Ear wax and moisture can render the device completely useless and adding to this the fact that these are also the most expensive devices on the block, getting a CIC means that no other device really suits your ear and your audiologist deems it absolutely necessary.