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Are Receiver-in-Canal Hearing Aids a Good Fit for You? Explore

the Pluses and Minuses

When you begin looking for hearing aids you’ll quickly

encounter many different designs to choose from

among them the receiver-in-canal (RIC). RIC devices

are similar to the more common behind-the-ear (BTE)

hearing aid, but they provide some advantages that

BTE aids cannot. Keep reading to explore the pros and

cons of RIC devices.

Two standard types of hearing aid (behind-the-ear and

in-the-ear) are designed to keep the device component all in one case (behind the

ear and in the ear respectively). RIC devices use a different strategy, separating the

device‚ Äôs components into two sections. The device’s microphone and amplifier are

housed in a small case that rests behind the ear, while the receiver is found in a small

bud that rests in the ear canal. A small tube connects the receiver to the case.

Separating the receiver from the rest of the device has a number of advantages.

Compared to other hearing aid styles, RIC hearing aid wearers have fewer problems

with feedback. They also report fewer problems stemming from occlusion of the ear

canal. With the ear canal open, wearers generally report a more natural sound which

is judged to be more comfortable. RIC hearing aids are favored by people with mild

to moderate hearing losses because they amplify high-pitched sounds very well.

The physical configuration of receiver in canal devices also provides a number of

advantages. Both the case that fits behind the ear and the receiver in the ear are

easy to hide. This small size also makes it very comfortable and easy to fit.

No device is perfect, and RIC aids do have some disadvantages. They are particularly

vulnerable to ear moisture on the receiver, potentially making frequent repairs a

necessity. Because they are so comfortable they are actually easier to lose: if you are

not used to feeling them in your ear, you may not notice when they are gone. Finally,

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these devices tend to be high in price, making them difficult to obtain for some

listeners.

Even though they have their flaws, receiver in canal hearing aids are a great choice

for a large percentage of the hearing impaired population. Your hearing specialist

would be happy to answer all your questions about different hearing aid styles and

help you choose the best design.