Completely-in-canal (CIC) hearing aids are the smallest of all the hearing aid choices and different than other options because they are custom fitted to the inside of your ear canal to amplify sounds in individuals with mild to moderately-severe cases of 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. They may be more comfortable to wear due to their custom fitting. A few completely-in-canal 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.
Disadvantages – Smaller size means smaller batteries and smaller batteries mean less battery life. 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 coming from somewhere else). CICs are typically not recommended for individuals with adequate low frequency hearing or for people with severe hearing loss.