Hearing aids, just like any other device, can sometimes run into issues. One of the most common and annoying problems is that high-pitched whistling sound, also known as feedback. Imagine having a conversation with someone, listening to TV or radio, or just going about your day, when all of a sudden, your hearing aid starts making a high-pitched noise.
If you have ever experienced this, you are not alone. Most people who use hearing aids have encountered this problem at some point, at least once, if not a couple of times. But why does it happen, and what causes it?
What Causes Your Hearing Aid to Whistle
A hearing aid can produce a whistling sound because of a process called feedback. This happens when the sound coming out of your hearing aid’s speaker gets picked up by the microphone, creating a loop. It is almost similar to when a microphone is placed too close to a speaker, creating that loud, screeching sound.
There are multiple reasons why you may be hearing this noise in your hearing aid. Sometimes, the problem is the device itself, while other times, it might be you. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons why this happens;
Poor Fit
One of the most common reasons is poor fit. This means that your hearing aid is too loose or too small for your ears, which makes it shift and move around as you do even the simplest things like chewing, yawning, or talking.
Normally, hearing aids are made to fit your ears just right, so if it doesn't or it is moving around, it won’t create that seal. This is where the sound leaks out and back into the microphone, producing that whistling noise.
Earwax Blockage
Everyone has earwax whether they are using hearing aids or not, so this should not worry you. It helps keep your ears clean and healthy. However, if you let it build up too much, it could be a problem.
If you are using a hearing aid and you let earwax build up in your canal, it could block or interfere with the sound travelling in your ear. Instead of going all the way to the eardrums, the sound will bounce back, get picked up by the microphone, and create a feedback loop, causing the whistle.
Volume Too High
You may think that turning up the volume will allow you to hear better, but this can actually have the opposite effect. If the volume is too high, it can be strong enough to escape from your ears and travel back to the microphone in your hearing aid. The louder the sound, the more likely it is to leak out, causing feedback and creating a whistle.
Incorrect Dome or Earmold
Hearing aids come with different domes (the soft tips) or custom earmolds to ensure they fit securely in your ear. If your hearing aid is not the right size or the dome doesn't have the right shape, it won’t seal your ear properly.
This will leave small gaps where sound can escape, and when that sound finds its way back to the microphone, feedback happens. Even just a small difference in size can make a big impact. If your ears have a unique shape, you may require custom molds to prevent feedback and other issues.
A Faulty Hearing Aid
Like any other device, hearing aids can also have technical problems. It can either develop an issue or wear out after using it for some time. Issues like a tiny crack in the casing, loose tubing, or a microphone that is not working properly can all cause feedback.
If the tubing that connects different parts of the hearing aid is worn out, air can pass through the cracks and lead to whistling. Even something as small as a weak battery can sometimes cause the device to malfunction.
Improper Placement
For your hearing aid to work correctly, you need to place it properly. Even a slight misplacement can cause feedback and other issues like weak sound, no sound, and more. If you don't insert your device correctly, it might leave room where sound can escape.
Improper placement is especially a common challenge with new users who haven't yet gotten used to the hearing aid. However, even if you have been wearing them for years, putting them in, in a rush can still cause issues. Always check if your hearing aids are sitting properly in your ears and adjust them to see if the whistling sound will stop.
What To Do When Your Hearing Aid Whistles
Now that you know what could be the problem, here are some tips on how to fix your hearing aid and stop the whistling;
Check the Fit
First things first, check the fit and make sure that your hearing aid is inserted correctly into your ear. If it feels too loose, gently adjust it until it fits right. If it keeps getting loose even after adjusting, it may be a sign that you need a different size or type.
Keep Your Ears Clean
If you are experiencing feedback, it might be because earwax has buildup in your ear canal, preventing sound from travelling properly, which can cause the whistling.
Clean your ears regularly to prevent this, and make sure you do so carefully. Note that using cotton swabs can actually push wax deeper into your ear, making the problem worse. If you feel like your ears are blocked or the whistling becomes constant, visit a professional to have your ears safely cleaned.
Adjust the Volume
Lowering the volume slightly can help stop the whistling. If you always have to turn up the volume to hear better, it could mean that you need to adjust the settings in your hearing aid. An audiologist can fine-tune the device to ensure you get the right balance of volume without causing feedback.
Get Your Hearing Aid Checked
If nothing you do seems to help, the problem could need a professional fix. Take your hearing aid to a specialist who can inspect your device, repair any damages, and ensure that it is working as it should. They can also give you advice on what to do should the whistling, or any other issue happen again and how to better care for your device.
Try Different Domes or Molds
Domes or earmolds help the hearing aid fit properly in your ear. However, if they are too small, too large, or not the right shape, they can leave gaps where sound escapes, causing feedback and making it harder for you to hear clearly.
If your hearing aid is not fitting well, switch to a different size or type to see if it helps. You can always contact an audiologist to help you find the best option for your ear shape and level of hearing loss.
Avoid Covering Your Hearing Aids
Covering your ears while wearing hearing aids can create temporary feedback. This can happen if you wear hats, scarves, or even if you hug someone and press your ears against their shoulder. When something blocks the sound coming from your hearing aid, it can cause it to travel back into the microphone, causing the whistling noise. To prevent this, be mindful of how you cover your ears. If you need to wear a hat or scarf, try adjusting it so it does not press against your hearing aid.
Give Your Ears a Break
Sometimes, your ears can become irritated or swollen, especially if you have been wearing your hearing aids for a long time. This can change how your hearing aid fits a little bit, which may lead to more feedback. If your ears feel sore or uncomfortable, try taking your hearing aids out for a short while to give your ears time to recover. This will help reduce swelling and allow your hearing aids to fit better once you put them back in.
Contact a Professional
If you have tried these solutions and your hearing aid is still whistling, it is time to see an audiologist. A professional can carry out tests and check both your ears and your hearing aid to figure out the exact cause of the problem. They can check for earwax buildup and clean your ears, make sure your device is in good condition, and even adjust your hearing aid settings to improve its performance. They can also recommend a better-fitting mold if needed.
Sometimes, these issues could be a sign that you need a different style of hearing aid. A hearing specialist can guide you toward the best solution so you can enjoy clear, comfortable hearing without the frustration of these problems.