Hearing aids have revolutionized the way people with hearing loss experience the world around them. These small devices amplify sounds and improve the quality of life for millions. However, users sometimes encounter a common issue: a whistling or squealing sound emanating from their hearing aids. This phenomenon, known as feedback, can be bothersome and affect the effectiveness of the device. Understanding why hearing aids whistle and how to prevent it is crucial for maximizing their utility and comfort.
What is Feedback?
Feedback occurs when sound from the hearing aid’s speaker re-enters the microphone and is amplified again, creating a loop that results in a high-pitched squeal or whistle. This can happen for various reasons, but it typically occurs when sound leaks out of the ear canal and back into the microphone.
Causes of Feedback
- Poor Fit: One of the primary causes of feedback is a poor fit of the hearing aid. If the device doesn’t sit snugly in the ear canal or if there are gaps between the ear mold and the canal walls, sound can escape and cause feedback.
- Volume Settings: Sometimes, feedback occurs when the volume settings are too high. Higher amplification increases the chances of sound leaking back into the microphone.
- Earwax Build-Up: Earwax can accumulate in and around the hearing aid, leading to improper fit and causing sound leakage.
- Environmental Factors: Certain environments with hard surfaces or enclosed spaces can reflect sound waves back into the microphone, triggering feedback.
Preventing Feedback
Proper Fitting
Ensuring a proper fit is crucial to prevent feedback. A licensed audiologist can customize the ear mold to fit comfortably in the ear canal, reducing the chances of sound leakage.
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
Regularly clean your hearing aid to prevent earwax buildup, which can affect the fit and contribute to feedback. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning and maintenance to ensure optimal performance.
Adjusting Volume Settings
If you experience feedback at higher volume settings, try lowering the volume slightly. Modern hearing aids often have automatic feedback suppression features that adjust the settings to minimize feedback.
Positioning
Pay attention to the positioning of the hearing aid. Ensure it sits properly in your ear and avoid covering the microphone with your hand or hair, which can block sound and cause feedback.
Professional Check-Up
Schedule regular check-ups with your audiologist to monitor the fit and performance of your hearing aids. They can make necessary adjustments and address any issues with feedback.
Advanced Solutions
Digital Feedback Reduction
Many modern hearing aids come equipped with digital feedback reduction technology. This advanced feature continuously monitors for feedback and adjusts the settings in real-time to minimize or eliminate it.
Directional Microphones
Some hearing aids have directional microphones that focus on sounds coming from the front while reducing sounds from other directions. This can help reduce the likelihood of feedback in noisy environments.
Customized Programming
Work with your audiologist to customize the programming of your hearing aid. They can adjust the settings based on your specific hearing needs and lifestyle, reducing the occurrence of feedback.
Conclusion
Understanding why hearing aids whistle and how to prevent feedback is essential for maximizing their effectiveness and comfort. By ensuring a proper fit, regularly cleaning and maintaining your device, adjusting volume settings, and utilizing advanced features like digital feedback reduction, you can significantly reduce or eliminate feedback issues. If you continue to experience problems despite these efforts, consult your audiologist for further assistance. With the right approach, you can enjoy clearer, more comfortable hearing without the annoyance of whistling or squealing from your hearing aid.
Need a Hearing Aid Center in Vancouver, WA?
Established in 2005, Vancouver Hearing Aid Center is a full-service hearing aid store located in Vancouver, Washington. At our location, we provide in-store repairs, sales, evaluations, fittings, consultations, and exams. We also providers of LNI, TRU, and Managed Care. Finding the right hearing professional to care for your hearing health is an important step in getting the assistance you need, and we’re excited to be a part of your journey! 40 + yrs in service. Drop by or give us a call today!