Hearing Aid Tips For Those With Small Ear Canals

If you have very small ears or a very small ear canal, then you are likely going to have trouble getting a standard-size hearing aid to work. This is tremendously frustrating if you have a hard time hearing. Here are some tips for making sure that you can get the hearing assistance that you need.   

1. Choose a Relatively Stiff Hearing Aid

If you have a small ear canal, you will definitely need to purchase a hearing aid that is made out of a relatively stiff material. There are many hearing aids on the market that have the part that goes directly into your ear made out of a soft, flexible rubber. This is because those with larger ear canals find it more comfortable. In contrast, you need to be sure that you purchase one that is made out of an inflexible material. This is because you don't have the luxury to be able to put a large quantity of rubber in your ear in order to anchor the aid. You instead need to be sure that you have something that will be able to anchor itself without putting as much material in your ear.   

2. Choose a Hearing Aid With a Canal Style Earmold With a Short Canal

Because you are using a hearing aid whose earmold is not made out of a flexible material, you will be able to purchase an earmold that is shorter and will therefore fit comfortably in your ear. Choose an earmold that will be similar to the shape of your ear canal but is short enough to not press at the ends.   

3. Use a Blue Silicon Ear Impression When Taking Molds

Finally, make sure that, when you are fitted for a hearing aid, the impression is made out of blue silicon, rather than any other material. This is critical because it will allow you to get a more accurate impression of your ear since the chances that the blue silicon will expand are reduced.  

4. Consider a Tube Fitting

Finally, if you have an extraordinarily narrow eardrum, consider asking for a tube fitting right away for your hearing aid, rather than going through the steps of having impressions made for normal hearing aids. By doing this, you will be able to get the hearing assistance that you need more quickly. 

For more information and before you make a final decision about your hearing aid, talk to a doctor (such as one from Pacific Hearing Care). He or she will be able to help you make the best decision.