How Do Completely-in-Canal (CIC) Hearing Aids Work?

Hearing aids are one of the most common solutions to hearing loss and there are several types available, like completely-in-canal (CIC) hearing aids.

CIC hearing aids are small, discreet, and provide excellent sound quality. We’ll explore how CIC hearing aids work, how they’re different from other types of hearing aids, their benefits and drawbacks, and how to choose the right one. 

What are CIC (completely-in-canal) hearing aids?

CIC hearing aids are small, discreet audio devices that fit entirely inside the ear canal. They are the smallest type of hearing aid available and are unnoticeable or invisible when worn. CIC hearing aids are designed to fit snugly and securely in-the-ear canal while remaining as comfortable as possible. 

Yes Hearing offers CIC hearing aids that are made ready-to-wear and amplify sound effortlessly without generating unwanted feedback. CIC hearing aids are powered by a tiny battery and use advanced digital technology to provide clear, natural sound for the wearer. 

How do CIC hearing aids work?

CIC hearing aids work by amplifying sound waves that enter the ear canal. They have incredibly small microphones that pick up sound waves, which are converted to electrical signals and processed by a tiny computer inside the hearing aid.

At this point, the electrical signals are sent to tiny speakers in the hearing aid. These speakers broadcast the computer-processed sounds into the wearer’s ear canal, where the brain picks them up and interprets them all as intelligible speech or sound. 

CIC hearing aids have other benefits that only make them more valuable. This type of hearing aid can be worn when taking a phone call or listening to music without distortion or excessive amplification. If you’ve been considering a CIC aid but were unsure about these factors, know that you or your loved one can enjoy your life as normal without technical difficulties.

How do CIC hearing aids differ from other types?

If you are wondering which type of hearing aid you need, chances are you’ve already looked at a few.

Here are three ways CIC hearing aids stack up in comparison to other types of hearing aids, including behind-the-ear (BTE), in-the-ear (ITE), and receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aids:

1. CICs are the smallest and most lightweight hearing aid option
2. They require no configuration — simply turn it on and start using it
3. They don’t need to be custom-molded. CIC hearing aids come pre-designed so they are conveniently one-size-fits-all

CIC aids are also more discreet and easier to use than traditionally-designed hearing aids. Most people are surprised at how lightweight they are. 

How do you choose the right hearing aid?

When deciding on a hearing aid for the next few years, it’s important to consider each factor in the mix. Think about the current severity of the hearing loss and the type of aid that best suits those needs. 

BTE and RIC hearing aids have directional microphones that make it easier to pick up sounds in noisier environments like concert halls and public gatherings. However, they’re clunkier than CIC hearing aids and can be difficult to adjust to a wearer’s preferences. 

CIC hearing aids offer the best of both worlds. They’re lightweight and don’t require any technical skills, yet offer just as much or more aural clarity than other devices. 

The cost and maintenance requirements of various hearing aids are also worth considering. Sometimes the more affordable options require more upkeep, but it’s not always the case. Just like any other technology, you get what you pay for — meaning the more money you invest, the better quality product you’ll enjoy. 

Finally, we recommend consulting with an audiologist to help you decide which hearing aid to buy. It’s a consequential decision and the device you go with will impact your hearing capacity for years to come. 

How do you care for your CIC hearing aids?

Caring for your CIC hearing aid is essential to ensure it lasts for many years. Make sure you clean it regularly to remove natural earwax buildup and keep it free from dirt and debris.

It’s also important to keep it dry and away from prolonged sunlight when not in use. Excess moisture negatively affects the small electronics in the device and may cause irreparable damage. 

Always adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and maintenance of your hearing aid to ensure it works powerfully every day. With proper care and maintenance, your CIC hearing aids will last for years to come.

How do you get CIC hearing aids?

CIC hearing aids are an increasingly popular hearing loss solution due to their top-notch sound quality, superior comfort, and discreet design. 

Are you ready to find your perfect hearing aid? It’s really quite simple. Speak with a Yes Hearing specialist to learn more about the best hearing aids for your needs.