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What Are The Best Hearing Aids To Wear With A Face Mask?

by | Feb 14, 2022 | Hearing Aids, Patient Resources

There are many variables to consider when choosing a hearing aid. It can be a daunting task that discourages people from getting hearing aids. With the introduction of masks to our everyday lives, it has become even harder for some.

Having to wear a mask should not determine whether you get hearing aids. Healthy hearing is a cornerstone of how we communicate, and we all know how important communication is for leading a fulfilled life.

Instead of sacrificing your hearing to be comfortable with a mask, why don’t we fit you with a more suitable hearing aid?

There are various styles of hearing aids that will not interfere with your mask.

Many local people have recently reached out to me in need for hearing treatment but have expressed their concern about wearing hearing aids with a face mask, resulting in them not investing in the hearing care they really need.

I’m here to explain to you, and many other local people alike, that there are several options of hearing aids that you can wear with a face mask.

In-The-Ear (ITE)

This is the largest prescription hearing aid you can get without anything wrapping behind your ears.

Its size lends itself to a long battery life and it fits comfortably within the bowl of your ears. A larger battery means more power, which is good news for those with a severe hearing loss. This model also has the most features to customize the settings to your liking.

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In-The-Canal (ITC)

This style is custom molded to fit your ears perfectly. Focus on comfort with this type of hearing aid, as it fits deeper in your ear canal. Having the right fit will be the difference between a good and a great experience.

ITC models also possess directional microphones and volume controls.  These features are handy for better understanding in loud environments.

Completely-In-The-Canal (CIC)

This style of hearing aid is an excellent example of how far hearing aid technology has come. It fits entirely within your ear and is only accessible via a small handle used to insert and remove.

Due to its size, adjustments need to be made remotely since there are no buttons or dials on the actual unit. In some cases, you can make these adjustments via an app on your phone.

This style is best suited for those with a mild to moderate hearing loss.

Invisible-In-Canal (IIC)

This invisible hearing aid will be a perfect choice for those seeking complete discretion and no chance of your hearing aid interfering with your mask. It is best suited for those with a mild hearing loss.

Since it’s so tiny, it doesn’t carry the same power that other prescription hearing aids have.

As one of the first of its kind, this design fits entirely within your ear canal. Because of this, it’s also controlled via an external source, and adjustments cannot be made via the hearing aid itself.

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Different Types Of Masks

If you’re not a fan of having your hearing aids directly in your ears, you can always change the style of mask you wear.

Head Straps – This design secures your mask via straps that wrap around the back of your head. There are usually two straps: one for around the base of your skull and one higher up around the upper part of your head.

Mask Straps – You can get a strap that attaches to any behind-the-ear mask and transforms it into a head strap. It connects both ear straps of the mask and fits snugly around your head.

Face Shield – Although technically not a mask, most establishments will accept this, as it provides protection without affecting your breathing. Most are adjustable to fit any size head, as they fit on your head – no different than a baseball cap.

Don’t Let Your Hearing Suffer

As it seems, we might be dealing with masks for a bit longer. That is no reason to let your hearing health suffer. If you need hearing aids, we can find the perfect pair for you that will satisfy your personal preferences.

If you currently wear hearing aids and have difficulty fitting them around your mask, please bring them to us and we can help you find a solution.

Maintaining your hearing throughout this pandemic should be a priority. When it’s all over, we want everyone to get back to enjoying life to its fullest.

For more information and to answer any questions you have about getting the best hearing aids for you, call us at your earliest convenience. We look forward to helping you through these unique times.

Do you know somebody that needs to see this? Why not share it?

Marcie Jacobs, M.A., F-AAA

Marcie Jacobs has extensive experience in the field of Audiology. She became an audiologist over 25 years ago and has practiced in Southern Maryland and Prince Georges County. Jacobs Audiology was founded in 2011 with the philosophy of providing superior hearing health care for their patients. Her unique combination of empathy and energy result in excellent patient care. Marcie Jacobs obtained her Master of Science degree in Audiology from the University of Maryland in 1991.

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