Hearing Loss Treatment
At Hill Country Ear Nose & Throat, we use the latest in computerized, digital technology to assess and serve both our adult and pediatric patients. Multiple devices and services are available to patients with hearing loss. Following a comprehensive diagnostic audiology assessment, our licensed audiologist will discuss hearing aid options with each patient based on the results of a communication and lifestyle assessment. This includes not only taking the nature and degree of hearing impairment into account, but also considers the individual’s activity level, socialization, dexterity, and financial resources. We will ensure that we will take the time to get to know your specific listening needs and set up a treatment plan that focuses on your goals and what is important to you.
Working with the industry’s best hearing aid manufacturers, we offer devices to fit every lifestyle, including hearing aid options that are iPhone and Bluetooth compatible. We offer rehabilitation techniques and education/support for family members as well. Extensive follow-up is included in the investment of any hearing instrument. We firmly believe that our job is not to sell hearing aids, but to solve communication problems.
“Today’s digital hearing aids offer exceptional sound quality at a price you can afford…all in very discreet styles!”
Receiver-in-Canal (RIC)
An ultra-small, lightweight, receiver-in-canal (RIC) style hearing aid sits snugly behind the ear and connects to the ear with nearly invisible thin wire connecting to a tiny speaker in the ear canal. Based on the severity of hearing loss, it can allow for natural sound quality while keeping the ear canal open.
Open Behind-the-Ear (BTE)
A small BTE hearing aid attaches to a slim tube which directs sound into the ear. This “open” type of fitting is very comfortable and discreet. It is suitable for mild to moderate high-frequency hearing losses.
Behind-the-ear (BTE)
BTEs are worn comfortably behind the ear while amplified sound travels down a tube to a customized earmold that fits securely into the ear. Because they are larger, BTEs can accommodate bigger batteries for longer life and larger amplifiers for maximum amplification. Most BTEs are compatible with assistive listening devices. BTEs are suitable for mild to profound hearing losses.
Full Shell (ITE)
Full shells are also custom-made to fit securely in your outer ear. They are larger in size than the half shell allowing for easier manipulation for those with dexterity difficulties. They are suitable for mild to severe hearing losses.
Half Shell (ITE)
Half shells are custom-made to fit securely in your outer ear, ensuring optimum performance and maximum comfort. Half shells are suitable for mild to severe hearing losses.
Canal (ITC)
Canal hearing aids are custom-made to fit inside the external ear canal, making them almost unnoticeable. Canal hearing aids are suitable for mild to moderately severe hearing losses.
Completely-in-the-canal (CIC)
One of the smallest hearing aids available, the CIC fits deeply inside the ear canal, making it almost invisible. Benefits include cosmetic appeal, more natural sound, reduced feedback, less occlusion (“talking in a barrel” effect), improved telephone use and decreased wind noise. CICs are suitable for mild to moderately severe hearing losses.
