What is Receiver in The Canal (RIC) hearing aids ?
Receiver in the Canal (RIC) hearing aids are a type of hearing aid that consists of a small case worn behind the ear that houses the hearing aid’s electronic components. Unlike traditional Behind the Ear (BTE) hearing aids, RIC hearing aids have a thin wire that extends from the case and delivers sound to the ear canal via a small speaker, called a receiver, which sits inside a soft dome or custom earmold in the ear canal.
The receiver is designed to deliver sound directly to the ear canal, providing a more natural listening experience with less occlusion (the sensation of your own voice being too loud). RIC hearing aids are available in different styles and sizes and are suitable for a wide range of hearing losses. They are particularly effective for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss who require a discreet, comfortable hearing aid that provides excellent sound quality.
Why is this Receiver in The Canal (RIC) hearing aid used?
Receiver in Canal (RIC) hearing aids are popular because they offer a number of benefits over other types of hearing aids:
Better sound quality: RIC hearing aids have a small receiver located in the ear canal, which allows for better sound quality and more natural sound perception.
Comfort: RIC hearing aids are generally more comfortable to wear than other types of hearing aids because they are smaller and do not occlude the ear canal.
Easy to use: RIC hearing aids are easy to use and maintain. They typically have simple controls and are less likely to need frequent adjustments.
Discretion: RIC hearing aids are less visible than other types of hearing aids. The receiver is located in the ear canal, and the device itself is small and discreet.
Flexibility: RIC hearing aids are suitable for a wide range of hearing losses and can be programmed to meet individual hearing needs.
Overall, RIC hearing aids offer a combination of comfort, sound quality, and flexibility that make them a popular choice for many people with hearing loss.
Who needs Receiver in The Canal (RIC) hearing aids more?
Receiver in the Canal (RIC) hearing aids are suitable for people with mild to moderate hearing loss who need amplification in the high-frequency range. They may be especially beneficial for people who have difficulty hearing high-pitched sounds, such as birds chirping or the sound of a child’s voice.
RIC hearing aids are also a good option for people who want a discreet and comfortable hearing aid. The small size of the device makes it less visible and more comfortable to wear than larger hearing aids.
However, it’s important to note that the best hearing aid for an individual depends on several factors, including the severity and type of hearing loss, the shape of the ear canal, and personal preferences. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to consult with an audiologist who can help you determine the most appropriate hearing aid for your specific needs.
How to setup Receiver in The Canal (RIC) hearing aids?
Setting up a receiver in the canal (RIC) hearing aid involves a few steps:
Choose the correct size of receiver: RIC hearing aids come with different sizes of receivers. The receiver should fit comfortably in your ear canal and not cause any discomfort or pain.
Attach the receiver to the hearing aid: The receiver needs to be attached to the hearing aid, which is usually done by snapping it into place.
Insert the hearing aid: Once the receiver is attached, insert the hearing aid into your ear. It should fit snugly but not be uncomfortable.
Turn on the hearing aid: Some RIC hearing aids turn on automatically when inserted, while others require you to push a button. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific hearing aid.
Adjust the volume: RIC hearing aids typically have a volume control that can be adjusted to the desired level. Start with a low volume and gradually increase it until you can hear comfortably.
Fine-tune the settings: If your RIC hearing aid has additional settings, such as noise reduction or directional microphones, you may need to fine-tune them to optimize your hearing experience. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions or consult with your hearing healthcare professional for guidance.
It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific RIC hearing aid and to consult with a hearing healthcare professional if you have any questions or concerns about setting up and using your hearing aids.
How to clean Receiver in The Canal (RIC) hearing aids?
Cleaning Receiver in the Canal (RIC) hearing aids is an essential task to ensure the devices function correctly and maintain optimal performance. Here are the steps to clean RIC hearing aids:
Remove the ear dome or ear tip from the receiver or speaker unit.
Inspect the ear dome or ear tip for any visible debris or wax buildup.
Use a soft-bristled brush or a wax pick to remove any visible debris or wax from the ear dome or ear tip.
If there is significant wax buildup on the ear dome or ear tip, soak it in warm soapy water for a few minutes.
Use a clean, dry cloth or tissue to gently wipe the ear dome or ear tip.
Use a wax guard tool or brush to clean the wax guard. This is the small filter located in the receiver or speaker unit.
Check the sound outlet on the receiver or speaker unit for any visible debris or wax buildup.
Use a wax pick or brush to remove any visible debris or wax from the sound outlet.
Reattach the ear dome or ear tip to the receiver or speaker unit.
Repeat the above steps for the other RIC hearing aid.
It’s recommended to clean your RIC hearing aids daily to keep them functioning correctly and maintain optimal performance. If you have any concerns or difficulties in cleaning your hearing aids, contact your audiologist or hearing healthcare professional for assistance.