All hearing aids function similarly, amplifying sound to compensate for loss of hearing due to injury, disease or age. When shopping for a hearing aid, you should consider your lifestyle, the degree of hearing loss, and what features are most important to you.
Behind the Ear
Behind-the-ear hook behind the ear and connect to a molded unit in the ear. They are the best for profound hearing loss. Since they're the largest units, they use larger batteries which are easier to change and less expensive than smaller batteries.
In the Ear
In-the-ear hearing aids are larger units molded to fit in the ear. They can help a wide range of patients, from those with minor hearing loss to more severe hearing impairment.
In the Canal
In-the-canal are custom-molded units that are smaller than in-the-ear models and less visible. They are best for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss.
Completely in the Canal
Completely-in-the-canal hearing aids are very small custom units that are almost completely hidden in the ear canal. These units allow the user to listen to headphones and use telephone headsets.
Costs
The smaller the hearing aid, the more expensive it is. The smaller batteries required for in-the-canal and completely-in-the-canal hearing aids are also more expensive and must be changed more often, adding to their expense.
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