CIC - Completely In The Canal Hearing Aids

Hearing aids that fit completely in the ear canal are known as CIC hearing aids. CIC hearing aids are moulded to suit the individual, and fit inside the hearing canal of the ear. CIC hearing aids provide a very discreet option being almost unnoticeable to others. Looking face to face the CIC hearing aid is not visible, however can be noticed if someone was to look at your ear side-on.

How are they Fitted?

Completely in the canal hearing aids, as the name suggests are inserted deep in the ear canal and most closely resemble the natural hearing process.

What types of hearing loss are treated?

· CIC hearing aids are most suited to adults with mild to moderate hearing loss.

· They are suited to those who are self conscious of wearing a hearing aid.

· Those who have an ear canal large enough to accommodate the insertion depth of the device.

CIC Is Not Suitable For

· Completely in the canal hearing aids are not suitable for children.

· They are not suitable for those with severe hearing loss

· They are not recommended for people with dexterity problems, as they are very small and quite difficult to handle.

· Not usually recommended for people with good low frequency hearing.

Things to Consider

Because the electronic components of CIC hearing aids are inside your ear they are susceptible to damage from ear wax and moisture. You should receive a set of brushes and other tools to help you keep your CIC aid clean and in good working order.

The small size of the CIC hearing aid usually means that many of the features you would find on a larger hearing aid might be compromised. CIC hearing aids have less space for add-ons such as volume controls, directional microphones and telecoils.

The CIC does not pick up wind noise like some other hearing aid instruments as it’s sheltered by the ear. They are also more suitable for speaking on the telephone as there is a reduction in feedback due to the location of the receiver.

Because of their small size, completely in the canal hearing aids may be more difficult to remove or adjust. Due to the smaller size of the battery, the CIC hearing aid does not have the same battery life as some of the other hearing instruments available on the market.

CIC hearing aids are generally more expensive than some of the other hearing aids available.