What Type of Hearing Aids Should You Wear with Eyeglasses?

Wearing both hearing aids and eyeglasses can be a concern for some people. There’s a feeling of uncertainty when it comes to comfort, or having a problem with either the hearing device or the eyewear. 

There are four general categories of hearing aids:

In-the-ear (ITE) - This type of hearing aid is placed in the opening of your ear canal. There is nothing that rests behind the ear. 

In-the-canal (ITC) -  This hearing aid is similar to the ITE device, but it rests deeper inside the ear, making them nearly invisible.

Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC) - This type of hearing aid goes into the ear canal and is not visible at all.

Behind-the-ear (BTE) - This is an earlier hearing aid style, but a modern version has more advancements. The main part of the device fits right behind the ear, and has clear tubing that attaches to an earmold which rests in the opening of the ear’s canal. Open-fit models are similar, but they do not have the earmold. 

If you wear eyeglasses, it’s recommended that you wear the ITE, ITC, or CIC hearing aids. If you frequently remove your glasses, BTE hearing aids could cause more problems. 
 
3 Distinct Features

It’s best to base your choice of hearing aids on the features available in each hearing device, rather than the shape. Hearing aids are constantly changing, therefore features also change. Here are some of the typical features:

1. Directional microphone: This helps identify the sound you need to hear if you are in a noisy environment. For example, if someone is speaking to you in a crowded restaurant, you will be able to clearly hear them talking even with the noise happening around you.   

2. Noise reduction: This feature sifts out the background noises by intensifying the sound of one channel to improve speech. 

3. T-coil: This feature allows wearers to hear more clearly as they speak on a land-line phone. T-coils help you to hear people that are talking through a speaker or intercom. 
Focus on how these features will help you in your daily life, then you can choose the best style of hearing aids.  

Eyeglasses and BTE Hearing Aids

If you do not want to wear ITE, ITC, or CIC hearing aids, it is possible to comfortably wear both BTE hearing aids with your eyeglasses. It’s important to properly put on each of these accessories in order for them to fit well. Here is some advice:
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• Begin a routine where you put your glasses on before putting on your hearing aids. The placement of your eyeglass arm is more fixed than your hearing aid, so it will be more difficult to adjust. After placing the hearing aid in your ear, check yourself in the mirror to make sure that your hearing device is not hanging from your outer ear.
• Select the size of the BTE that is most suitable for you before you purchase them. A standard size can be used with glasses, but it’s still bulky. The latest alternative is the mini BTE. The piece that is placed behind the ear is much smaller for more comfort, and also cuts down feedback that you may get with BTE models.   ​
• Removing your eyeglasses in a forward motion, with both hands is something you should frequently practice. If you do not remove your glasses in a forward motion, you may push the hearing aids off of your ears.      

If you, or a loved one, wear both eyeglasses and hearing aids and are in need of a hearing aid solution, contact us at Pure Sound Hearing Aids for a consultation with one of our hearing instrument specialists!  

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