Maico Audiological ServicesAs the smallest of the hearing aid alternatives currently available, completely-in-canal (CIC) hearing aids are different than other devices due to their size, custom fit and location in the ear canal for people with mild to moderate hearing loss. CIC hearing aids offer several pros for the wearer, as well as a couple of cons that you should be aware of before getting one.
Advantages – This type of hearing aid is small and comfortable, which provides both cosmetic and listening benefits to the wearer. Because of their small size, it’s difficult for others to notice a CIC without looking for it and it works automatically without extra knobs and buttons to control. The custom fit of the device may make this a more comfortable choice because they are molded to the shape of your inner ear. You can wear some CIC brands around the clock for up to several months at a time, so there is no need to insert and remove it every morning and night. Hearing aid models that must be removed daily have a convenient pull-out string that lies inconspicuously outside the ear. It generally doesn’t get in the way of the telephone receiver and, because it is housed inside your ear canal, your outer ear is able to keep out wind noise. What’s more, your ear’s natural anatomy guides sounds into the device, improving the quality of the sound.
Disadvantages – Because the CIC hearing aids are small, they are generally less powerful and go through batteries faster than larger ones. They are typically more costly than other types of hearing aids due to their custom fitting. Additionally, their tiny size doesn’t leave room for extra features, so you won’t be able to adjust the volume or experience directional sound (the sound in front of you appears louder than one that comes from somewhere else). Moreover, CICs are not powerful enough for people with major hearing loss.