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\nThe invisible-in-the-canal (IIC)<\/strong> model is the smallest device currently available. The entire hearing aid sits inside the ear canal, making it practically invisible. Since this model is so small, it cannot fit any additional features and also takes the smallest batteries. The smaller the battery, the quicker they drain. Since this device sits so deep inside the ear, it is less likely to pick up background noise, such as wind, but is prone to earwax blockage. This model can treat mild to moderate hearing loss.<\/p>\n<\/div>\t\t\n The completely-in-the-canal (CIC)<\/strong> model fits entirely inside the ear canal, making it almost invisible. The small size means there are very few additional features and the device requires a small battery with a short battery life. This model can treat mild to moderate hearing loss.<\/p>\n<\/div>\t\n The in-the-ear (ITE)<\/strong> model comes in two versions; one that fills only the lower part of the outer ear (half shell) and one that fills most of the outer ear (full shell). Since this model is even larger than the last few, it can contain significantly more features and a larger battery. This device is more visible than the others and picks up more background noise, like wind. This model is appropriate for mild to severe hearing loss.<\/p>\n<\/div>\t\t\n The receiver-in-canal (RIC)<\/strong> and open fit models have two parts connected with a thin wire. The portion that sits in the ear canal is small, meaning the ear canal is not fully blocked. This enables low-frequency sounds to enter the ear naturally; high-frequency sounds are still amplified through the hearing aid. These models are appropriate for high-frequency mild to moderate hearing loss.<\/p>\n<\/div>\t\n\t\n The behind-the-ear (BTE)<\/strong> model consists of two parts, one that fits inside the ear canal and one that hooks behind the ear. This is the largest and most powerful of all the devices. The BTE can fit the most additional features and uses the largest battery. This device is appropriate for almost all types of hearing loss.<\/p>\n<\/div>\t\t\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n Hearing aid technology has improved drastically over the past couple of decades. Early devices relied on vacuum tubes and bulky batteries, but today\u2019s instruments take advantage of digital signal processing, microchips and computerization. Keeping track of the latest technological features can be challenging, but we\u2019ll cover a few of the more popular options here. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Some of the breakthroughs in hearing aid technology include the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n For decades, hearing aids were strictly analog. But the digital revolution has taken over many areas formerly devoted to analog technology, and hearing aids are no exception. Digital programming works by converting sound waves into digital signals using digitized sound processing. A built-in computer chip determines whether the signal is speech or noise and converts it into a clear, amplified signal. Digital programming offers many benefits including improved speech quality, advanced programming options, a better fit, and a multitude of features that work to improve and enhance functionality of the hearing aids.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This wireless communication platform is prevalent and used in a wide range of electronic devices, including computers, smartphones, and MP3 players, to exchange data. Bluetooth\u2122 allows devices to communicate with one another. Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids let users stream signals from these and other electronic devices directly to their aids, improving their versatility and convenience. You can make phone calls, listen to music and watch television through your hearing aids, without disturbing other people around you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n One of the latest, and most welcome, breakthroughs in hearing aid technology is rechargeable batteries. Most of the major hearing aid manufacturers now offer rechargeable options or the ability to convert existing hearing aids into rechargeable ones, freeing users from the hassle of disposable batteries. Not only is this great for the environment; it saves you money in the long run. By utilizing lithium-ion batteries, you can get up to 24 hours of performance with a single charge, allowing you to wear your hearing aids all day long and not have to worry about having them run out of power during an especially inopportune moment. Many include disposable battery backups for an added measure of security.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With all these advances in hearing aid technology, devices are better at providing clear sound than ever before. While the choices may seem overwhelming, working closely with your audiologist at Ear Nose Throat & Allergy Associates Puyallup<\/span> can help you figure out which technology and features are perfect for your needs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If you are experiencing hearing loss, odds are good that you\u2019ll benefit from a hearing aid. But choosing the right one is no simple task. Today\u2019s hearing aids are smaller and more feature-packed than their predecessors, offering an array of options. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Narrowing the choices down can be tough, but there are a few important things you should take into consideration before choosing a hearing aid. <\/p>\n\n\n\n First, you\u2019ll need to have an audiologist assess your hearing loss. Severity is measured in degrees, based upon your hearing loss range in decibels. It ranges from normal (-10 to 15 dB) to profound (91+ dB), with a total of seven different degrees. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Equally important is the frequency of your hearing loss. Conductive hearing loss resulting from damage to the outer or middle ear affects low frequency sounds, while sensorineural hearing loss, in which damage occurs to the inner ear, results in a loss of high frequency sounds. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You\u2019ll need to choose a hearing aid that targets the frequencies you have trouble comprehending. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Functionality is an important consideration. With so many available features, you\u2019ll need to decide which ones matter most to you. Popular features include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Extra features are also available. Speak with your audiologist about the pros and cons of these features. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You\u2019ll also have to take into account your lifestyle needs. Whether you enjoy quiet, intimate gatherings with a few close friends or an active outdoors lifestyle that includes a lot of background noise, there is a hearing aid designed specifically for your activity level. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Cosmetic preference is a key factor in choosing a hearing aid. Since you\u2019ll be wearing it every day, it\u2019s got to not only feel good but appeal to your confidence. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Hearing aids are available in a variety of sizes and styles, some visible while others are implanted deep within the ear canal, rendering them virtually undetectable. Many are custom-molded to fit each individual\u2019s ears. <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Many consumers jump to the conclusion that hearing aids are too expensive. At the other end of the spectrum, they’ll point out advertisements for extremely inexpensive options. Be cautious of the product(s) you put in your ears. Some of the cheaper, entry-level products are not classified as hearing aids by theFDA, which requires devices to meet stringent guidelines. Having a professional assist you with the product decision ensures you are protecting your hearing health. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Hearing\naids range widely in cost; finding the right product for your needs depends\nupon a thorough hearing evaluation by a qualified audiologist, who will provide\na recommendation perfectly suited to your type and degree of hearing loss and\nbudget, as well as other lifestyle factors.<\/p>\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/entpuyallup.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/cic.jpg\" "\\"cic\\"")
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\nHearing Aid Technologies<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Digital Programming<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Bluetooth<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Rechargeable Technology<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Which Is Right for Me? <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Choosing a Hearing Aid<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
What Are Your Hearing Needs?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
What Are Your Lifestyle Needs?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
What Is Your Cosmetic Preference? <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
What Is Your Budget? <\/h3>\n\n\n\n