Hearing Aid Types

There are many different styles of hearing aid available, a few of which are described here:

Behind-the-ear (BTE). Often viewed as old-fashioned, they have much to commend them, being robust, versatile and generally cheaper than other styles. They usually fit to the ear with an acrylic or silicone earmould, made from an impression of the ear, though it is often possible to use a standard ear piece which avoids the need for an impression. BTE's now come in a range of colours, though grey and beige are usually most popular.
Miniature BTE. These aids are hard to spot due to their small size. Many now use 'open fit' to avoid the blocked up feeling many aid users experience, and the best use the latest receiver-in-the-canal (RITE) technology where the speaker unit is placed in the ear itself for optimum natural sound quality. These aids don't suit everybody, they can be to small and fiddly for some patients, and are not suited to more severe losses, but when they are appropriate they give terrific benefits.
In-the-ear (ITE). This one of the most common styles, small enough to be discrete but large enough to contain all the latest technologies - including blue-tooth compatibility with mobile phones if needed.
Full shell ITE. These practical aids are easy to handle, due to their size, and incorporate a larger battery than most ITE aids - meaning battery changes are easier and less frequent. Although the aids are more visible than many others their size can be an advantage, allowing for extra power and a more secure fitting in the ear.
Completely-in-the-canal (C-I-C) aids. These are the smallest ITE's, designed to fit out of sight deep in the ear. Sitting so close to the ear drum they can sound very crisp and clear, but they don't suit everybody.