Hearing Aids

Hearing Aids

Once our friendly audiologist has tested your hearing and found that a hearing aid can help to improve your quality of life then it’s time to discuss which hearing aid is most appropriate for you.

There are multiple factors to consider as different styles of hearing equipment are more suited to deal with specific hearing losses. Dexterity is also a major factor when choosing a suitable hearing device, you can rest assured that the Alresford Hearing Studio team is dedicated to analysing all aspects of your lifestyle to ensure that the independent advice we provide delivers the optimum solution for you

Fast Facts

Behind-the-ear (BTE) instruments rest behind the ear and house the device’s technology. A clear plastic tube then directs amplified sound into an earmould inside the ear canal. BTE instruments are often the most durable hearing devices – some are even waterproof. If a patient suffers from recurring ear infections this is a good solution as the design can keep the electronics away from the infection.  This type of equipment  is generally what is provided through the National Health Service

Receiver in the Canal (RIC) is one of the most popular types of  hearing equipment on the market today. A RIC device is small, discreet and perfect for most first-time users. A RIC places the miniature speaker directly in the ear canal, enhancing comfort and sound quality. Often this type of hearing equipment generally has an App on a smartphone that gives the user control in even the most challenging of situations. For convenience most RIC models are rechargeable.

In-the-canal (ITC) instruments are smaller still, featuring an ear mould that fits into the ear canal and a small faceplate that can be seen in the entrance to the external auditory canal. They are  discreet, yet partially visible within the outer ear and are suitable to accommodate a mild to severe hearing loss. These can suit customers who want something discreet but have some issues with handling hearing devices.

Completely-in-the-canal (CIC).  These devices sit completely in the ear canal and as such only the head of a tiny plastic line that you insert or remove the instrument with shows above the canal. Although CIC instruments offer aesthetic appeal the structure of some individuals’ ears may make this style unsuitable for them.