A half shell hearing aid is a type of in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aid that is smaller than a full shell hearing aid. It fills up the bottom half or third of the bowl area of the outer ear. Half shell hearing aids are typically used to treat mild to moderate hearing loss.
Half shell hearing aids are a good option for people who want a discreet hearing aid that is still comfortable to wear. They are also a good option for people who have small ear canals or who find traditional ITE hearing aids to be too bulky or noticeable.
What is Half Shell vs Full Shell Earmold?
A half shell earmold is a type of earmold that fits in the bottom half or third of the ear canal. A full shell earmold is a type of earmold that fits in the entire ear canal. Half shell earmolds are typically more comfortable than full shell earmolds, but they may not provide as much amplification.
What is the Shell of a Hearing Aid?
The shell of a hearing aid is the outer casing of the hearing aid. It is made of plastic or acrylic, and it is custom-fit to the individual’s ear. The shell houses the hearing aid’s electronic components, including the microphone, amplifier, and speaker.
What are the 6 Types of Hearing Aid?
There are six main types of hearing aids:
- In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids: These hearing aids fit in the outer ear, and they are the most common type of hearing aid.
- In-the-canal (ITC) hearing aids: These hearing aids fit in the ear canal, and they are smaller than ITE hearing aids.
- Completely-in-canal (CIC) hearing aids: These hearing aids fit completely in the ear canal, and they are the smallest type of hearing aid.
- Receiver-in-the-ear (RITE) hearing aids: These hearing aids have a small receiver that sits in the ear canal, and a larger behind-the-ear (BTE) component that contains the microphone, amplifier, and battery.
- Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids: These hearing aids sit behind the ear, and a tube connects the BTE component to a receiver that sits in the ear canal.
- Bone conduction hearing aids: These hearing aids transmit sound vibrations through the bones of the skull, bypassing the damaged ear canal and eardrum.
What is the Easiest Hearing Aid to Wear?
The easiest hearing aid to wear is the one that is the most comfortable and that you can use easily. Some factors to consider when choosing an easy-to-wear hearing aid include the size of the hearing aid, the type of controls, and the battery life.
If you are considering a half shell hearing aid, it is important to talk to an audiologist to see if they are the right fit for you.