Why Behind The Ear Hearing Aids Are So Popular

BTE’s – Behind The Ear Hearing Aids are certainly favored by those who are hard of hearing. They are named as such because that’s exactly where they are worn. A small plastic unit, which houses the necessary technology to pick up the sound, is placed behind the ear. A tiny ear mould is also placed inside the ear; it receives the sound, from the unit, through a discreet tube. Behind the Ear Hearing Aids are appropriate for any type of hearing loss. Whether your condition is mild or acute, child or adult, there is a BTE suitable for you.

A BTE is quite large, so why is it so popular? Its size reflects its capacity. Because it is bigger, it can house a more powerful battery, and, also, a potent electronic device that substantially increases the strength of the electrical signals. Also, the BTE is very economical, especially compared to many other models. Because of this, it is thought to be extremely good value for money, a powerful hearing device at a reasonable cost. Not only are the affordable, people find them comfortable. The unit sits behind the ear in a natural way, and, in time, becomes indistinct to the wearer. If you decide to have a BTE, your Audiologist will make a cast of your ear and from this will make the inner ear mould. This ensures a perfect fit! Because the ear mould is made to fit the ear, the BTE can be very suitable for children. As they grow, new moulds are made. You do not have to replace the hearing aid as the child grows and this makes it more cost effective.

One downside of the BTE is its size. Although they are comfortable, the Behind the Ear Hearing Unit is quite large; therefore some people are conscious of how noticeable it is to others. This is why they may opt for the Completely in the ear Hearing Aid, a CIC. It is smaller and a lot less noticeable. But it does come with a higher price tag. Most BTE models are available in a variety of colors and shapes. This means the unit should complement you hair and skin tone, helping the unit appear more discreet. Another problem some people experience with the BTE, although one that can be resolved, is high pitched whistling or feedback. Because the unit is outside the ear, it may pick up excess noise. This is not a problem with design. All it needs is for your audiologist to change the settings to correct this. You will learn how to do this for yourself.

Both Analogue and Digital BTE’s are available, including the conventional analogue and the programmable analogue versions. The Digital Behind the Ear hearing aid is popular. You would have to pay more for it. The only person who can be of the proper assistance to you is an audiologist. You must get professional advice when making a choice.

Hearing Aid Supplies At Home

You have spent your earnings on that essential hearing aid. Life is back to normal again. But what do you need to keep it that way? There are just a few more things you need to know about hearing aid supplies. Most of the items you need can be found at your local drugstore and many of them online. If you do struggle to find an outlet, then approach your audiologist. A professional will have the contacts to send you in the right direction.

Hearing aids need a battery. You must change it regularly. A pair of tweezers will definitely be needed. Very few have a hand that is small enough and completely steady. Eveready, Energizer, Rayovac, to name a few, produce hearing aid batteries. Check the date to make sure they have not been on the shelf too long. Shelf life is around three years. Cleaning is also an important factor. This is necessary to keep your device in good conditions. It will minimize costly maintenance work.

For regular cleaning you need several tools. A Wax pick is a useful accessory. It works along the same principles as a tooth pick. It is very efficient at removing unwanted earwax from the unit especially in vulnerable areas such as the receiver. There are kits available with a selection of brushes, picks, and other handy items that could make life less complicated. The parts of the hearing aid housing the electronics are very sensitive to water. Never ever wash them. Clean with a tissue or soft cloth. Audiowipes are good as they are designed for cleaning electronic equipment.

Another important factor, relative to the good upkeep of your aid, is your ears. Keep them clean. Earwax can cause the unit to malfunction. The humidity inside the ear is bad for hearing devices. Good old fashioned ear buds are good. A product called ‘Mini Dry’ reduces moisture inside the ear. There is also a sanitized spray to stop the accumulation of wax. Your ears may feel irritated due to close contact with the unit. Soothing creams are available.

Now and again your hearing aid will need repair. If it malfunctions, check the battery. There are proper testers available to check batteries. You do not want to replace the battery when it is not the problem. A cheap and cheerful repair kit can also be handy. These are adequate for minor and common repairs. If it is more serious, take it to your audiologist or return it to the supplier. Feedback or a whistling noise can be a problem. This may not be more complicated to fix than turning the volume down. Give it a try before going to an expert.