The type of hearing aid recommended
for your child will depend on several factors. These include your child’s physical
limitations, health condition, and personal preference. There are many different types
of hearing aids. Companies are always inventing newer, improved hearing aids. But
there
are 4 basic types of hearing aids available today. See your child's healthcare provider
or audiologist for more information on each of these types:
In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids
These come in plastic cases that fit in the outer ear. They are generally used for
mild
to severe hearing loss. They can be used with other technical hearing devices. These
include the telecoil, a device used to improve sound during telephone calls. But their
small size can make it hard to make adjustments. ITE hearing aids can also be damaged
by
earwax and drainage.
Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids
BTE hearing aids are worn behind the ear. This type of hearing aid is in a case. It
connects to a plastic ear mold in the outer ear. These hearing aids are generally
used
for mild to severe hearing loss. They are typically used for young babies and children.
Poorly fitted BTE hearing aids can cause an annoying whistling sound (feedback) in
the
ear. But all types of hearing aids may cause feedback if not fitted well.
Canal aids
These fit directly in the ear canal. They come in 2 styles: in-the-canal (ITC) aid
and
completely-in-canal (CIC) aid. Canal aids are custom made to fit the size and shape
of
your child’s ear canal. They are generally used for mild to moderate hearing loss.
But
their small size can make them harder to remove and adjust. They can also be damaged
by
earwax and drainage.
Body aids
Body aids are attached to a belt or pocket and connected to the ear with a wire. They
are often used when a child can’t hear anything at all (profound hearing loss). Or
they
are used if the other types of hearing aids don’t help.