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Hearing problems can be divided into 2 categories, namely conductive and “sensorineural”. An irregularity in the communication of sound to the outer or middle ear is called conductive, while an abnormality on the cochlear and auditory nerve is referred to as sensorineural. The former can be helped with the use of analog hearing aids which basically amplifies sound. The latter fixes the problem of sound processing, and use of digital hearing aids gets the job done.

Common hearing aids use analog technology and they generally come as either conventional or programmable types. Both use the principle of sound amplification by magnifying sound waves. Conventional aids come with a regular volume control for increasing or decreasing sound. While programmable aids basically do the same thing, they have extra features that allow exact fine-tuning and adjusting to an individual’s specific needs.

Digital hearing aids use digital technology and process sound for optimum clarity and quality. Each model is tailored on an individual’s hearing problems. It features excellent reduction or cancellation of noise, feedback and distortion. After the instrument receives sound waves, it performs millions of instant calculations to convert sound to digital format with digital technology, then as analog sound recognized by the person.

Hearing aids come in all shapes and sizes. They can be generally classified as BTE (Behind the Ear), ITE (In the Ear), ITC (In the Canal), and CIC (Completely in the Canal). BTE’s are made of custom-made ear molds that house the circuitry for amplification or processing of sound. They are mostly recommended for children for their durability.

ITE’s are instruments fitted just inside the outer ear. They are used in a wider range of hearing loss, usually on patients with mild to severe problems. ITC’s are fitted further into the external ear since they are smaller, and therefore almost appear concealed. They cater to patients with mild to severe hearing loss.

Completely in the canal or CIC models are considered the smallest in size and are virtually invisible to other people since it literally fits further inside your ear canal. But it does require having an ear canal opening large enough to fit this device. They are best for mild to moderate hearing loss.

It’s easy to be confused with so much information on hearing aids out there. So how do we get a custom-fit hearing instrument? The answer will always vary since different individuals have different degrees of hearing loss. A patient’s lifestyle and communication will also be factors.

One cannot base his decision by comparing the experience and review of others regarding their hearing aids. A certain model may be good for them, but that does not necessarily mean that it is good for you too. Only by taking hearing tests and proper evaluation can you truly specify what your needs are in order to choose the right device.

Remember that your needs will always be different from others, and on choosing hearing aids, it’s no different. A doctor, audiologist or hearing instrument specialist can conduct accurate tests that will pinpoint the right instrument for you, be it analog or digital hearing aids.

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