What is Completely-In-The-Canal (CIC) Hearing Aid?
A Completely-In-The-Canal (CIC) hearing aid is the smallest type of hearing aid available. It is designed to fit completely inside the external auditory canal, leaving only a small part of the device visible. CIC hearing aids are often chosen by people who want a discreet hearing aid that is not noticeable to others.
What is the difference between in the canal and completely in the canal hearing aid?
In-the-canal (ITC) and Completely-in-the-canal (CIC) hearing aids are both small and discreet hearing aids that fit in the ear canal. However, there are some key differences between the two types of hearing aids.
- ITC hearing aids are slightly larger than CIC hearing aids. They typically extend about 2 millimeters into the ear canal.
- CIC hearing aids are the smallest type of hearing aid available. They fit completely inside the ear canal, leaving only a small part of the device visible.
- ITC hearing aids typically offer a wider range of features than CIC hearing aids. This is because they have more space for electronics.
- CIC hearing aids are more difficult to insert and remove than ITC hearing aids. This is because they fit so tightly in the ear canal.
What type of hearing aid fits completely inside the external auditory canal?
CIC hearing aids are the only type of hearing aid that fits completely inside the external auditory canal. Other types of hearing aids, such as in-the-canal (ITC) hearing aids and behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids, extend further out of the ear.
What is the range of CIC hearing aid fitting?
The range of CIC hearing aid fitting depends on the individual’s ear canal size and shape. In general, CIC hearing aids can be fitted to people with ear canals that are at least 2 millimeters wide and 10 millimeters deep. However, some CIC hearing aids can be fitted to people with smaller ear canals.
CIC hearing aids are a good option for people who want a discreet hearing aid that is not noticeable to others. They are also a good option for people who have small ear canals. However, CIC hearing aids can be more difficult to insert and remove than other types of hearing aids. They can also be more susceptible to earwax buildup.
If you are considering a CIC hearing aid, it is important to talk to an audiologist to see if they are a good fit for you.