The Causes of Hearing Aid Feedback & How To Avoid It
Hearing aids are certainly marvels of modern technology, bringing the world of sound into sharper focus for many. But occasionally, that clarity can be interrupted by an unexpected whistle or squeal. Hearing aid feedback, the technical term for these noises, can surprise even the most experienced users.
While today’s hearing aids are much better at minimizing the likelihood of creating unwanted sound, you may occasionally hear feedback when wearing your device. In this article, we’ll explore what hearing aid feedback is and set the stage for how you can ensure a smooth, uninterrupted listening experience.
Why Does My Hearing Aid Whistle?
Feedback in hearing aids happens when amplified sound leaks from your ear canal and reaches the microphone, making the sound louder again. This can sometimes cause a whistling or squealing sound. It’s normal to hear feedback in certain situations, like when giving someone a hug or changing clothes. But you shouldn’t hear it all the time. Continuous noises might mean your hearing aid needs some attention, and a professional can help check it out for you.
Let’s outline some of the most common causes below.
Does Your Hearing Aid Feel a Bit Off?
One common reason for unexpected feedback is when your hearing aid doesn’t fit snugly in your ear. The first thing to try is taking it out and reinserting it properly. A small adjustment might solve the issue by ensuring it’s sitting just right. If feedback continues, there might be a bigger fit issue.
Changes in your ear shape over time are perfectly normal and can affect how your hearing aid fits. Big life changes like weight loss or gain might cause your earmolds to loosen or tighten, affecting the seal. If that sounds like you, it’s a good idea to see your audiologist or a hearing aid specialist who can reshape your hearing aids for a perfect fit.
Is Earwax Causing That Annoying Whistle?
Earwax might be behind that unexpected noise from your hearing aid. Sometimes, too much wax can build up in your ear canal and change how your hearing aid fits or even block the sounds you need to hear. The sound waves bounce back and will inevitably create feedback.
If you suspect earwax is the culprit, it’s a good idea to visit a hearing center to have it safely removed. Though tempting, you’ll want to avoid at-home remedies like using cotton swabs, as doing so is unsafe and can damage your inner ear. While you’re at the hearing center, you can also ask for a thorough cleaning of your hearing aids.
Between your regular hearing checkups and deep cleanings, you’ll also want to clean your devices consistently at home to keep them working well. Regular checks and cleanings can help ensure your hearing aids function their best without those pesky squeals.
Is the Volume Level Too High?
Turning up the volume on your hearing aids might seem helpful, but it can actually be the reason for that unwanted feedback noise. Loud settings can send sound back into the microphone, creating annoying squeals. To solve this, try lowering the volume a bit. This simple adjustment can keep your hearing aids working smoothly without any interruptions.
Objects Getting a Little Too Close?
Ever notice a quick squeal when something is near your hearing aids? It’s a common thing and often caused by simple actions. Your hair might fall over your ears, or maybe a hat is sitting snugly around them. Even lifting your hand to fix your hair can trigger a brief feedback sound. These noises usually pass quickly. But if it starts happening often, you may want to have a chat with your hearing care professional to find a solution.
Could a Mechanical Glitch Be Behind the Noise?
Hearing aids have small, delicate parts that can sometimes wear out over time. Even when they fit nicely, are clean, and have full batteries, there could still be a minor issue inside. Maybe the tubing is bent, or the microphone isn’t in its place.
It’s best to have any mechanical troubles checked out by a professional. Many things can cause feedback, but a specialist can quickly spot and fix the problem. It’s always smart to reach out for help with hearing aid repairs to keep your hearing crisp.
Tips to Tackle Hearing Aid Feedback
Tired of that annoying feedback from your hearing aids? You can try a couple of steps to help reduce it.
First, let’s check the fit of your hearing aid parts. If your earmold, dome, or shell is loose, it can jiggle around and make feedback worse. Loose parts won’t seal well in your ear, allowing sound waves to escape and return to the microphone. A hearing care professional can help make sure everything fits just right. They can make adjustments so everything stays in place and your hearing aids work quietly.
If you wear behind-the-ear hearing aids, take a look at the tubes. These connect the outer part to the earmold and guide sound into your ear. Over time, they can become hard, cracked, or clogged, which can mess up the sound and cause feedback.
The good news is you don’t need a whole new hearing aid if the tubes are the problem. You can have the tubes replaced at a hearing aid clinic. It’s a simple fix, and we can do it for you. Schedule an appointment at your local Next Level Hearing Care location, and we’ll provide the hearing aid maintenance you need.
