Exactly What Are Completely-in-Canal (CIC) Style Hearing Aids and How Do CICs Match Up Against Other Designs?

As the smallest of the hearing aid options available today, completely-in-canal (CIC) hearing aids differ from other styles due to their size, custom fit and location in the ear canal for people with mild to moderate hearing loss. This style of hearing aid has many advantages, as well as a few disadvantages when compared to other hearing aid styles.

Pros.

CICs are small and their size and fit hold several aesthetic as well as listening advantages. 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 earA few CIC hearing aid models can also be worn for extended periods of time, up to several months in most cases, so you won’t be inconvenienced by having to remember to take out your device when showering or sleeping. Hearing aid models that must be removed daily have a convenient pull-out string that lies inconspicuously outside the ear. Because the device is inside the ear, your outer ear keeps away wind noise and allows you to use the telephone with ease. What’s more, your ear’s natural anatomy guides sounds into the device, improving the quality of the sound.

Cons.

Smaller size means smaller batteries and smaller batteries mean less battery life. They are generally the more expensive option because they are custom fitted to the wearer’s ear. 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 coming from somewhere else). Completely-in-Canals are typically not recommended for individuals with adequate low frequency hearing or for people with severe hearing loss.

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