There are many different styles of hearing aids. It can be Behind-the-Ear, Completely-in-the-Canal, or Invisible-in-the-Canal. Each style has its own advantages and disadvantages.
One style of hearing aids is the Receiver-in-the-Canal or just simply RIC. Continue reading to learn more about RIC and why this style is worth considering.
What is Receiver-in-the-Canal hearing aids?
RIC hearing aids are a type of open-fit hearing aid. It uses a thin plastic “micro” tube that connects its body from behind the ear to a small, soft tip where the speaker is that rests in the ear canal. And, because the tip does not seal the canal, air and sound can flow naturally through the ear.
What are the advantages of RIC hearing aids?
A lot can be said about the advantages of using RIC hearing aids. Below are the more important ones.
1. It is more comfortable to wear
The way it is configured allows for a hearing aid solution that you can wear for a long period of time without feeling discomfort.
2. It is almost invisible
Like invisible-in-canal and completely-in-canal hearing aids, RICs are discreet and would seem that you’re not wearing anything at all.
3. Replaceable Receivers
This means you don’t have to buy a new pair of hearing aids when the receivers no longer function that way they were and not giving you enough to hear your surroundings. In that regard, it’s cost-effective.
4. Wireless Cros/BiCros
This feature is particularly beneficial if you are looking for a natural sound quality with a low noise floor, a crucial factor in terms of spontaneous acceptance, which is conducive to listening comfort.
What are its disadvantages?
1. Microphone can easily be clogged and damaged
The dual microphone might help with understanding speech, however it is more prone to damage because of the dead skin that comes from behind the ear.
2. Receiver can get damaged
Since RIC receivers can get easily corroded with earwax, despite having wax protectors, it can get damaged over a period of usage. On a good note, they can be replaced.
3. Battery consumption
Especially for severe and profound hearing loss where sound output demand is higher, the battery the Receiver-in-the-Canal hearing aids come with can get drained easily due to its size.
Depending on your lifestyle and/or requirements, Receiver-in-the-Canal could be the hearing aid style that fits right. Call us at (632) 523 0098 if you need help in choosing hearing aids.
