There is a stigma surrounding hearing loss. Estimates conclude that 360 million people have a hearing loss yet it takes, on average, ten years for people with a hearing loss to take action. Numerous reasons are put forth for these numbers including being seen as inadequate communicators, social awkwardness, low cognition, and an association with old age. Thankfully these stigmas are diminishing. The stated reasons may be why small hearing aids are gaining in popularity. These tiny and in some cases almost invisible devices are ideal for people with a hearing loss who are bothered by the stigma associated with wearing them. Let us have a look at these tiny wonders of technology as well as considerations involved with their purchase.
Small And Discreet
Small hearing aid styles like those that fit completely in the canal (CIC) and those invisible in the canal (IIC) are small and designed to be worn deeply in the ear canal. A CIC hearing aid fits inside the ear canal with only a small portion of its face visible. The small speaker resides on the back of the device while the microphone and battery are on the face. A short cord is included to assist you in the insertion and removal of these hearing aids.The IIC is the smallest type of hearing aid. Placed deep inside of the ear canal, it is virtually invisible. Since the microphone is deep within the ear canal, the sound quality is significantly improved. They are comfortable as they naturally fit the outer ear.
Numerous Benefits
There are excellent reasons for choosing to wear small or invisible hearing aids. A few of them include:
- The small hearing aids are discreet and in some cases hidden from sight.
- These custom hearing aids which are molded to fit your ear canal are lightweight and have no external tubes or wires.
- Because these devices sit deep within your ear, using telephones and headsets is more natural and external noise such as wind is absent.
- Small and invisible hearing aids are efficient. Because they sit near the eardrum, less power is needed which leads to less feedback.
Some Considerations
If you maintain an interest in using a small hearing aid, please consider the following:
- Unfortunately, CICs and IICs are not strong enough for the severe hearing loss. They are intended for mild to moderate hearing loss. If you experience a severe hearing loss, you may wish to consider a behind the ear (BTE) model hearing aid.
- There is a chance that these hearing aids may not fit your ear canal. Everyone’s ears are different, and if your canal is short or narrow, there be a problem.
- Battery life is very short for these hearing aids. Due to their size, these hearing aids use a small battery with a shorter lifespan. Frequent battery changes will also cost you more money for batteries.
- The high-tech features that accompany many models of hearing aids may be absent from a small hearing aid. They lack advanced directionality because they can only accommodate a single battery. It can be a challenge to see and use the controls as well.
A CIC or IIC hearing aid is an excellent choice for those who have cosmetic concerns and seek a discreet fitting device. However, they are not appropriate for everyone. A hearing healthcare professional can assist you in finding an alternative and remember, there are other types of hearing aids that can be discreet.2018-04-18 09:00:40
