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| Hearing aids are available in the following styles: |
| BTE Style |
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The BTE style hearing aid is housed
in a small curved case which fits behind the ear and is
attached to a custom earpiece molded to the shape of
your outer ear. Some BTE models do not use a custom
earpiece; instead the rubber tubing is inserted directly
into the ear. The case is typically flesh colored, but
can be obtained in many colors and/or patterns. Other
features include:
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BTEs may be the most appropriate choice for young
children, as only the earmold needs to be replaced
periodically as the child grows and the ear changes in
dimension.
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Typically, BTEs are the most powerful
hearing aid style available, and may be the best option
for persons with severe-to-profound hearing loss. FM and
direct auditory input is routinely available as an
optional or standard feature.
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Telecoil circuitry is often more powerful
than with ITEs.
Non-occluding earmolds may be used with BTE hearing
aids, if a medical condition exists or if the patient
reports a “plugged” sensation when wearing other hearing
aid styles.
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Directional microphone technology is
available with most BTE styles and models.
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Larger battery sizes used in BTEs may be
easier to handle than smaller styles for those with
limited manual dexterity or vision deficits. |
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| ITE Style |
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The ITE style hearing aid fits directly into the
external ear. The circuitry is housed primarily in the
concha (external) portion of the ear. Due to the
miniaturization of the component parts (including the
microphone, receiver and battery), it is possible to
make hearing aids small enough to fill only a portion of
the concha (ITC) or fit deeply into the ear canal (CIC).
All three of these styles have typically been considered
to be more modern and cosmetically appealing. However,
modern BTE hearing aids have become smaller and at times
are less noticeable than some ITC hearing aids. Other
features of in-the-ear instruments include:
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More secure fit
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Easier insertion/removal than with BTEs.
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Improved cosmetic benefits with smaller
styles (CIC, ITC).
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Less wind noise in the smaller styles than
with BTEs.
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Directional microphone technology
available for most styles, excluding CICs.
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All components are integrated into a
one-piece shell, which may be easier to handle and
operate in comparison to BTE styles. |
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