Hearing Aid Fittings: A Basic Guide

If you’re reading this, it’s likely that you or a loved one is considering purchasing hearing aids. But where do you even start? There’s a lot of important decisions to make, and it can all be a bit overwhelming. Do you go with in-the-ear or behind-the-ear models? And what does an audiologist actually do at any appointment?

Don’t worry, we’re here to help. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about hearing aid fittings. By the time you’re finished reading, you’ll know exactly what kind of hearing aid is right for you. Let’s get started!

Types of Hearing Aids

There are three main types of hearing aids: in the ear (ITE), behind the ear (BTE) and in the canal (ITC). ITE models are smaller and less visible, making them a popular choice for people who are self-conscious about their hearing loss. BTE models are larger but offer more features and better sound quality. They’re also a good choice for people with profound hearing loss.

ITC hearing aids are the most discrete of the three. They sit in your ear canal, these hearing aids may be harder to take in and out, so if you have any dexterity issues talk to you audiologist about which hearing aid would be the best for you. These hearing aids are best for someone with mild-to-moderate hearing loss.

Earmolds are custom-made shells that fit into your outer ear. They come in either hard or soft material, and your audiologist will help you choose the right one for you. ITE hearing aids fit snugly into your ear canal, while BTE models sit behind your ear and are attached to an earmold that fits into your outer ear.

What Happens During a Hearing Aid Fitting?

A hearing aid fitting is a process that is used to determine which type and size of hearing aid is best for a person based on their individual hearing loss. The first step of the fitting is generally a consultation with an audiologist, during which they will ask about your medical history and symptoms. They will then perform a series of tests to assess your hearing loss.

Once the audiologist has determined the severity of your hearing loss, they will work with you to select the right type of hearing aid. The next step is to have the hearing aid fitted to your ear. This process involves making an impression of your ear, which is used to create a custom-fit earpiece. Finally, you will be given instructions on how to use and care for your new hearing aid.

Hearing Aid Fittings

We hope this guide has been helpful in demystifying the world of hearing aid fittings! The most important thing to remember is that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution; the type of hearing aid that’s right for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Work with a qualified audiologist to find the perfect fit for you.