Why Behind The Ear Hearing Aids Are So Popular
Behind-the-ear hearing aids, or BTEs, are a popular choice among hearing aid wearers.
BTEs sit just behind the ear. The electronics are housed in a little plastic case which picks up the sound and sends it to the earmold inside the ear through a small tube.
Why are BTEs so popular?
Because BTEs are fairly large, they can accomodate many special features and are powerful. BTEs have a bigger amplifier than the other kinds, and the battery is stronger.
BTEs are also suitable for any type of hearing loss. Whether your hearing loss is mild or severe, there are BTEs that are right for you.
Another reason why many hearing aid users prefer the BTEs is that they are cheaper than many of the other models. Completely-in-the-ear hearing aids, also known as CICs, are much smaller, but carry a higher price tag. BTEs are generally considered the highest quality for the most reasonable price.
BTEs are also popular because they are comfortable. The plastic case sits just behind the ear in a way that is natural and, after a while, unnoticeable. When you first get your hearing aid, you have to go to the audiologist and have a cast of your ear made. From this, they will make an ear mold which fits your ear perfectly. This ensures a good, comfortable fit.
The disadvantage of BTEs is that, being as big as they are, they are quite noticeable. One reason some hearing aid users prefer CICs is that they are inconspicuous.
Another problem that sometimes BTE wearers experience is feedback and whistling. Because the BTE is outside of the ear, sometimes it picks up excess noise. This is not due to poor design; it just means that the settings need to be adjusted. Your audiologist can help you with that if you don't know how to do it.
You can buy both digital and analog BTEs. Analog varieties include both conventional analog and programmable analog. Of course, the digital models are a little pricier, but they are quite popular.
BTEs are especially good for kids. The ear mold is made especially to fit the inside of your ear. As a child grows up, new ear molds can be made. This way, you don't have to replace the actual hearing aid when your kid outgrows it.
Most manufacturers offer BTEs in different colors and slightly different shapes, so that the hearing aid can be matched to your skin tone or hair color. This makes them slightly less noticeable.
BTE hearing aids are suitable for anyone that suffers from hearing loss. They are good for any age and any severity of hearing loss.
If you are thinking of buying a hearing aid, talk to your audiologist and get their advice. Make sure you get the right model to suit your needs.