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Behind-the-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids

As the name suggests, this type of hearing aid fits behind the ear and is connected to a soft plastic earmold which fits inside the ear. As shown, the ear hook curves around the top of the ear and attaches to a small piece of plastic tubing extending from the earmold. Sound is routed through the earmold into the ear. The microphone is located at the top of the hearing aid near the ear hook. The battery, amplifier and receiver are all inside the case that fits behind the ear.

Advantages:

• Suitable for all ages and for any degree of hearing loss, from mild to profound.
• Most powerful hearing aids are behind the ear aids.
• Cosmetically appealing because of small size and placement behind the ear.
• Microphone is at ear level, which simulates natural sound reception.
• Adaptable to different configurations of hearing loss or to a change in hearing.
• Tend to have a longer life due to durability and wax being caught by the earmold.
• A loaner may be attached in place of your own aid if lost or in repair.

Disadvantages:

• An earmold that doesn't fit properly or is damaged may cause acoustic feedback (squealing) in moderate to severe losses. To prevent this, the earmold may need to be remade periodically to ensure a good acoustic seal in the ear.

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