If you suspect you’re one of the 28 million Americans who have problems hearing, see your doctor. Today, there are more options in style, comfort, and performance of hearing aids than ever before.

An audiologist can help you choose a hearing aid that fits your needs. Here are the main types:

• In-the-canal (ITC) and completely-in-thecanal (CIC): The ITC aid rests just inside the ear canal and is barely visible. And the CIC aid fits deep inside and is virtually invisible. People typically choose ITC and CIC aids because they are the smallest and least noticeable of all hearing aids. They both offer some listening benefits. But they are the most expensive, and some people find them difficult to use because of their small size.
• In-the-ear (ITE): ITE aids fit completely in the outer ear. Because they’re larger than incanal aids, they are somewhat easier to use. They also can hold more accessories, such as a telecoil—a device that improves a person’s ability to hear better over the phone.
• Behind-the-ear (BTE): BTE aids rest behind the ear. They’re often chosen for children because they’re easier to manage than smaller devices. These also are the least expensive of all the aids.

Besides the style of hearing aid, you have a choice on how it works—either by analog or digital technology. Some analog aids can be programmed with settings to respond to different environments. But digital aids offer the most flexibility in adjusting to fit your specific needs. A microchip in the hearing aid analyzes the noise and environment you’re in and self-adjusts to give you the clearest signal.

Whichever hearing aid you choose, keep in mind that it might take weeks or even months to get used to it. And before you buy, make sure you’re given a trial period to try it out. It’s worth the time and effort to find a hearing aid that’s right for you.