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OPD Wed · Surat Municipal Hospital

Hearing Aids

The Complete Hearing Aid Guide: Choosing, Fitting and Caring

6 min read

A hearing aid is not a purchase — it's a journey of selection, fitting, verification and care.

Styles

  • BTE (Behind-the-Ear): powerful and durable; suits all ages and most degrees of loss.
  • RIC (Receiver-in-Canal): discreet and comfortable; the most popular modern style.
  • ITE / ITC (In-the-Ear/Canal): custom-moulded to your ear.
  • IIC / CIC (Invisible/Completely-in-Canal): nearly invisible; suits mild to moderate loss.

Modern features

Rechargeable batteries, Bluetooth streaming from phones, noise reduction, directional microphones and app-based control are now common across brands like Phonak, Signia, Widex, Oticon, ReSound and Starkey.

Why professional fitting matters

A hearing aid must be programmed to your exact hearing profile and verified with Real Ear Measurement (REM). An unfitted device can be worse than none.

Daily care

Keep aids dry, clean them daily with a soft cloth, store them in a dehumidifier case, replace wax filters regularly, and service them every 6 months.

SilentCare Foundation supports beneficiaries through consultation, trial, fitting and long-term servicing — and provides hearing aids to those who cannot afford them.

Medical note: This article is educational and does not replace professional medical advice. For personal guidance, book a free screening or consult a qualified audiologist.

Questions About Your Hearing?

Book a free screening or talk to our team — early action changes outcomes.