Wearing hearing aids affects each person differently so it is difficult to generalize what it will feel like for you; however, the big picture answer is no. Wearing hearing aids should not cause any irritation, pain or discomfort. In fact, hearing aids should feel comfortable and eventually will feel natural in your ear.
Types of Hearing Aids Affect Fit
There are two basic types of hearing aids: custom in the ear hearing aids and behind the ear hearing aids (BTE). Custom in the ear hearing aids are custom fit based on an impression or cast taken of the ear canal and outer ear. They fill up a portion of the ear canal and outer ear depending upon the size. If made properly, in the ear hearing aids should not cause discomfort or pain while in the ear. If discomfort is experienced, in office adjustments can be made to the shell of the hearing aids by the hearing professional. In extreme cases of discomfort, a new impression will be taken and the hearing aids will be remade.
BTE hearing aids sit behind the ear and send sound into the ear can via plastic tubing and either a custom earmold or plastic dome depending upon the type of the BTE hearing aid. New open fit hearing aids have increased in popularity due to the natural feeling and fit of these hearing aids. Instead of using a full custom earmold, open fit hearing aids use a plastic dome inside the ear canal which allows the ear canal to remain open. People report this feels and sounds more comfortable to them.
To view the different types of hearing aids in the ear, visit Healthy Hearing's Quick Guide to Hearing Aids: Hearing Aid Styles.
For further questions or to discuss wearing hearing aids, visit a hearing professional near you.
