Everything You Need to Know About Behind the Ear Hearing Aids

Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids are a popular choice for many people. They suit all ages and offer numerous benefits. This guide will cover everything about behind the ear hearing aids, including what they are, how they work, and who can wear them.

 

Good hearing is essential for a high quality of life. Hearing loss impacts daily interactions and overall well-being. BTE hearing aids provide an effective solution for hearing loss, making them a common choice for many. This post aims to give a comprehensive overview of BTE hearing aids.

 

What Are Behind the Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids?

 

BTE hearing aids have a hard plastic case worn behind the ear. This case connects to a plastic earmold that fits inside the outer ear. The electronic parts are in the case behind the ear. Sound travels from the hearing aid through the earmold and into the ear. BTE aids suit all ages and range from mild to profound hearing loss.

 

A new type of behind the ear aid is the open-fit hearing aid. These small aids fit entirely behind the ear, with a narrow tube inserted into the ear canal. This design keeps the canal open, making it a good choice for people with earwax buildup. Open-fit hearing aids also help people feel less “plugged up.”

A diagram of a behind the ear hearing aid.

Components of BTE Hearing Aids:

 

  • Earmold: Custom-made to fit your ear, directs sound into the ear canal.
  • Tubing: Connects the hearing aid to the earmold.
  • Hearing Aid Body: Sits behind the ear.

 

BTEs pick up sounds, amplify them, and send them through the tubing into the ear. Their powerful amplification makes them ideal for severe hearing loss. Children often wear BTEs due to their ease of adjustment as they grow.

 

Benefits of BTE Hearing Aids

 

Powerful Amplification

BTE hearing aids provide strong amplification, making them suitable for various degrees of hearing loss. They can handle high-powered amplification, crucial for those with severe to profound hearing loss.

 

Advanced Features

BTE hearing aids come with many features, such as directional microphones, noise cancellation, and Bluetooth connectivity. These features enhance sound quality and make it easier to focus on conversations, even in noisy environments.

 

Find out more about speech in noise and hearing aids. 

Comfort and Fit

Modern BTEs are designed for comfort and fit. They suit different ear shapes and sizes, making them ideal for those with unique ear canal shapes or wax buildup issues. The earmold is custom-made, ensuring a snug fit without discomfort.

 

Longer Battery Life

BTEs have larger batteries, which means less frequent changes and longer usage times. This is especially beneficial for those who rely on their hearing aids throughout the day. The larger batteries also support more powerful amplification.

 

Easy Maintenance

BTEs are simple to clean and maintain. Their larger size makes it easy to handle and replace batteries. Cleaning around the components is straightforward, and the design minimizes issues with earwax buildup, ensuring longevity and reliability.

 

Space for Additional Features

The larger size of BTE hearing aids allows for additional features that smaller devices cannot accommodate. These include telecoils for better phone conversations, directional microphones for clearer sound, and Bluetooth for wireless connectivity. Users can easily adjust settings and switch between programs.

 

Durability and Reliability

BTE hearing aids are known for their durability. The external components are less prone to damage from earwax and moisture, making them a reliable choice for long-term use. They are robust and can withstand daily wear and tear.

Learn more about how long hearing aids can last.

 

Better Sound Quality

With advanced technology, BTE hearing aids offer superior sound quality. Features like speech enhancement and noise reduction help users hear more clearly. Directional microphones focus on sounds coming from specific directions, making conversations more accessible.

 

Suitable for All Ages

BTE hearing aids are versatile and suitable for both children and adults. For children, the ease of adjusting the fit as they grow makes BTEs an excellent choice. Adults appreciate the powerful amplification and advanced features.

 

Customizable Options

BTE hearing aids come in a variety of colors and styles, allowing users to choose options that match their personal preferences. Whether you prefer a discreet skin tone or a bold color, there is a BTE hearing aid to suit your style.

 

Tinnitus Management

Many BTE hearing aids include tinnitus masking features. These features generate soothing sounds that help manage tinnitus symptoms, relieving those who experience persistent ringing in the ears.

 

Enhanced Connectivity and Usability

Modern BTE hearing aids offer seamless connectivity to smartphones, tablets, and other devices. Users can stream audio directly to their hearing aids, making phone calls, listening to music, and watching TV more enjoyable. Smartphone apps allow for easy control and customization of settings.

 

Rechargeable Options

Rechargeable BTE hearing aids eliminate the need for frequent battery changes. Users can recharge their devices overnight, ensuring a full day of use. This convenience adds to the overall user experience, making BTE hearing aids more user-friendly.

 

Emergency Features

Certain BTE models come with safety features like fall detection and emergency alerts. These features provide added security, especially for older adults, ensuring help is readily available when needed.

 

Considering all these benefits, BTE hearing aids are a reliable and versatile option for improving your hearing experience. 

 

Who Are BTE Hearing Aids Right For?

 

BTE hearing aids are ideal for people with mild, moderate, or severe hearing loss. They are perfect for those needing powerful amplification and advanced features. BTEs are also suitable for individuals who prioritize comfort and a secure fit.

A behind-the-ear hearing aid stands on a white background.

Considering BTE Hearing Aids? Here’s What to Do Next

 

  • Schedule a hearing evaluation with a hearing healthcare professional.
  • Discuss your needs and preferences with your audiologist.
  • Get a personalized fitting and trial period for BTE hearing aids.

 

BTE hearing aids can significantly improve your hearing experience. For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact Stanford Hearing today. Improve your hearing and enhance your life with the right BTE hearing aid.