If you find yourself hard of hearing, do not fear.
Millions of people suffer from some type of hearing loss.
Hearing aids are now better than ever but choosing one can
be a little overwhelming.
Here are 5 tips on choosing digital hearing aids.
1. Style
Hearing aids come in various styles. The type and degree of
hearing loss determine the style that works best for you.
Consult with an audiologist who can advise on a suitable
style for your hearing loss.
There are 5 main styles of hearing aid.
CIC – Completely in the ear canal hearing aid fits
deep into the ear canal and is not visible. These are
super-small devices. One drawback is that the tiny size
prohibits many features.
ITC – In the canal hearing aid fits partially into
the ear canal although not as deep as the CIC style.
ITE – In the ear hearing aid fits into the outer edge
of the ear. While this style may be more visible it is
also easier to handle and insert.
BTE – Behind the ear hearing aid attaches to the
outer ear and rests on the back of the ear. It is making a
revival partially because of its similar shape to cell
phone headsets and the style lends itself to improved
hearing.
Open fit hearing aid is similar to BTE hearing aid but
smaller. It uses a small tube to send sound into the ear
canal.
2. Basic features
All hearing aids have the same basic features. A
microphone is used to pick up the sounds for amplification.
The amplifier increases the volume of the sounds. A
speaker is used to provide sounds into the ear canal to be
heard. All hearing aids run on battery power. The
frequency with which the battery needs to be changed will
depend on the number of features, the size and amount of
use.
3. Digital or analog
Analog used to be the standard hearing aid and the first
type that was available. As technology advanced digital
hearing aids were born. These started out being quite
expensive. Today, however, the prices have become quite
affordable making the analog styles all but obsolete.
4. Accessories
A remote control is handy to easily control volume and make
other adjustments. Directional microphones help to pick up
sounds that come from various directions. Adapters enable
your hearing aid to be used with your telephone and cell
phone.
5. Hearing aid brands
When choosing a hearing aid, always purchase a reputable
brand. Consider how long the hearing aid manufacturer has
been in business as well as their guarantee and warranties.
Siemens, Phonak, Starkey, Widex and Rexton offer some of
the highest quality hearing aids in the market. Shop
around, compare various brands and prices to find a digital
hearing aid that fits your lifestyle and budget.
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Looking to buy digital hearing aids? Make sure your read
our comparisons of Starkey, Beltone and Siemens digital
hearing aids at
http://www.abouthearingaid.com/art-dig
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