As the name implies, behind the ear hearing aids (BTE) are worn behind the ear. Most of the hearing aids comprise a small plastic case, an ear mold exactly fitting your ear and a tube connecting the case and the ear mold. The casing and the ear mold are easily detachable. The case comprises the microphone, amplification mechanism and the battery. The amplified sound is routed through tube to the ear mold. The mechanism of routing is either acoustic or electric. In the devices that use acoustic mode, the speaker is inside the case. In the models that use electrical signals to traverse the sound have the speaker mounted in the ear mold.
Both analog and digital types of behind the ear hearing aids are available in the market. The analog models are programmed to the listening requirements in various background noises. Digital models come with much sophisticated technology and are available with various channels and programs.
Behind the ear hearings aids are usually prescribed for people suffering from moderate to severe hearing loss. Though they can be used by the adults too, they are mostly preferred for children due to the fact that only ear mold can be replaced, as they grow, frequently. In cases of babies, who have a very fast growth during their initial years, the ear molds need to be replaced at least twice a month. Also, when there are any problems with the case, only the casing can be replaced instead of replacing the entire hearing aid.
Recent advancements in the technology and the continuous research in the hearing loss industry have made it possible to reduce the size of the hearing aids drastically. This lead to the introduction of miniature behind the ear hearing aids into the market. Most of them are less than 1 inch in length and less than 1/4 inch in width. Most of the models are not easily visible. These models come with a thin hair sized tubes, without any compromise in the quality of hearing. Recent developments have made it possible to integrate these devices with other systems such as FM systems etc., depending on your requirements.
The design keeps the ear canal more open. This also allows the sounds from the surroundings to naturally enter the ear without being amplified. The listener will get a natural hearing experience at low sound frequencies, and there is no echoing. As the ear mold is designed to suit the natural shape of your ear, the feedback in the amplified sound is reduced drastically.
If you are prescribed with behind the ear hearing aids, the mold of your ear is taken. It takes around 2 to 4 weeks for the entire unit to be delivered to you. Usually behind the ear hearing aids will give you good battery life. As most of the device is outside the device, they are rarely exposed to ear wax and moisture. This increases the lift of the behind the ear hearing aids. With a good aftercare, this type of hearing aids can have a life span of a number of years.
Behind the ear hearing aids are available from all the major manufacturers Phonak, Otican, Widex, Siemens, ReSound, Unitron, Starkey and Bernafon.
Behind The Ear
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