Experiencing feedback from your hearing aids can be quite frustrating. This unexpected whistling or squealing noise can catch you off guard and disrupt your hearing experience. Fortunately, there are several strategies to help minimize or eliminate hearing aid feedback. In this guide, we’ll explore what causes this issue and provide practical tips for prevention.
Understanding hearing aid feedback
Before diving into solutions, it’s helpful to know why feedback happens. Hearing aid feedback occurs when sound loops back into the microphone instead of entering your ear canal. This is similar to the screeching noise from a PA system when a microphone gets too close to a speaker.
In a hearing aid, the microphone picks up sounds from your environment, while the speaker sends these sounds into your ear. Feedback happens when the amplified sound leaks out and is picked up again by the microphone, creating a continuous loop. Depending on its severity, this can result in a soft, persistent whistling or a loud squealing noise.
How to prevent hearing aid feedback
You can minimize or eliminate hearing aid feedback with the following tips.
1. Ensure proper hearing aid placement
One of the most common causes of hearing aid feedback is improper placement. If your hearing aids are not positioned correctly in your ears, they may not seal properly, allowing sound to escape and feed back into the microphone. Double-check that your hearing aids are snugly in place each time you wear them. This simple adjustment can often resolve feedback issues immediately.
2. Adjust the volume settings
If your hearing aids are set too loud, they may produce feedback because the amplified sound can easily escape the ear canal. Try lowering the volume slightly to see if this reduces the whistling. If reducing the volume helps, speak with your hearing specialist about adjusting your hearing aid settings for optimal performance without sacrificing clarity.
3. Keep your ears clean
Earwax buildup can contribute to feedback by obstructing the sound path. When earwax accumulates, it can cause the amplified sound to reflect back into the hearing aid’s microphone. If you experience frequent feedback, consider scheduling a professional ear cleaning. Hearing specialists can safely remove excess wax, improving the performance of your hearing aids and reducing the risk of feedback. Regular ear cleanings are a preventative measure that can help maintain optimal hearing health.
4. Clean your hearing aids regularly
Maintaining your hearing aids is essential for preventing feedback. Dirt, earwax, and moisture can accumulate on the devices, especially around the domes or molds that fit inside your ears. Wipe your hearing aids with a soft, dry cloth each day to keep them clean. If you notice wax buildup on the dome or mold, clean it gently or replace it if necessary. A clean hearing aid ensures better sound transmission and reduces the likelihood of feedback.
5. Consider changing the dome or mold
The fit of your hearing aid’s dome or mold can significantly affect feedback. If your current dome size isn’t providing a good seal, sound may leak out and cause feedback. Your hearing specialist can help you find a better-fitting dome or mold. Larger or closed domes can offer a tighter seal and reduce feedback, though they may take time to get used to. If you’re experiencing persistent feedback, ask your specialist if a different dome size might be beneficial.
6. Check the hearing aid tubes
Over time, the tubes connecting the hearing aids to the earmolds can wear out or become too short, causing the devices to fit loosely in your ears. Loose or poorly positioned hearing aids are more likely to generate feedback. Replacing the tubes can help secure the hearing aids properly in your ears. Many specialists offer this service as part of regular maintenance, and it is a quick, cost-effective solution.
7. Explore feedback cancellation technology
Modern hearing aids are equipped with advanced features like Feedback Cancellation (FBC) technology. This technology detects the specific frequencies where feedback occurs and eliminates them before they reach your ears. FBC systems continuously monitor for potential feedback and adjust the sound output, helping to minimize or eliminate whistling noises. If you’re still experiencing feedback despite trying other solutions, consider asking your hearing specialist about upgrading to hearing aids with built-in FBC technology.
8. Schedule regular hearing aid check-ups
Regular check-ups with your hearing specialist can help prevent feedback before it becomes a problem. Specialists can adjust your hearing aids, clean the devices thoroughly, and address any fitting issues that might be causing feedback. Consistent maintenance not only improves your hearing experience but also prolongs the lifespan of your hearing aids.
Find a hearing specialist near you
If the issue persists, consulting with a hearing specialist about adjustments or new technology options can help you enjoy clearer, more comfortable hearing.
