Understanding Hearing Aid Feedback and How to Fix It

Hearing aids are a popular solution for those experiencing hearing loss, helping individuals stay connected to the sounds and conversations around them. However, like all devices, hearing aids can sometimes have issues. One frequent issue is feedback, which creates a high-pitched whistling or squealing sound. This happens when amplified sound leaks from the ear and is picked up by a hearing aid, causing it to loop and produce the feedback noise that many find bothersome.

Feedback is a problem that can often be resolved. It often has specific causes that can be identified and addressed, whether through simple adjustments or professional assistance. Understanding the reasons behind feedback and knowing how to fix it can ensure your hearing aids continue to perform well, providing clear sound without discomfort. With proper care and occasional fine-tuning, you can keep your hearing aids working effectively and enjoy a better listening experience.

What is Hearing Aid Feedback?

Hearing aid feedback is a common issue that occurs when sound escapes from your ear canal and re-enters the hearing aid’s microphone. This creates a loop that amplifies the sound repeatedly, often resulting in a sharp whistling, squealing, buzzing or hissing noise. It can happen for a number of reasons, like an improper fit, earwax blocking the ear canal or your hearing aid being slightly out of place. Even small movements, like adjusting glasses or brushing your hair, can sometimes trigger this sound.

Although hearing aid feedback isn’t harmful, it can be frustrating and disruptive. Many people experience it in everyday moments, like during conversations or while putting on a hat. In some cases, changes in your ear shape over time can also affect how well the hearing aid fits, which can lead to more frequent feedback. Understanding what causes these sounds and knowing when to seek an adjustment or professional help can make it easier to manage and reduce unwanted noise.

Can an Ill-Fitted Hearing Aid Cause Feedback?

A poorly fitting hearing aid doesn’t always seem like a big problem at first, but over time, it can cause sound issues that are hard to ignore. When the device isn’t snug against your ear, sound can escape and bounce back into the microphone, creating unwanted noise. You might hear a high-pitched whine or a sharp squeal at unexpected times. This kind of feedback can be distracting and frustrating, especially if it happens often.

To correct this, a hearing instrument specialist can evaluate how the hearing aid sits in your ear and suggest changes that improve the fit. That might mean adjusting the device, switching to a different dome size or using a custom earmold. These adjustments are often simple and can make a big difference in how your hearing aid performs. With regular maintenance and follow-up visits, your specialist can help you avoid future fit-related problems.

How Can Excessive Earwax Cause Feedback?

Excess earwax can often be the culprit behind the feedback or whistling sounds you might hear from your hearing aids. When too much wax builds up in the ear canal, it can block the sound from flowing naturally. In some cases, a buildup of earwax can also affect the fit of your hearing aids, making them less secure in your ear and further increasing the chances of feedback.

To deal with this, it’s best to have your ears checked regularly. A hearing specialist can look for signs of wax buildup and safely remove it if needed. They can also inspect your hearing aids to make sure they’re fitting correctly and working as they should. Avoid trying to remove the wax yourself with cotton swabs, as this can push it further in. By keeping your ears clean and your hearing aids properly adjusted, you can help reduce feedback and improve the overall performance of your devices.

Can Your Hearing Aid Settings Cause Feedback?

The settings on your hearing aid can sometimes be a cause of feedback. Hearing aids are designed with adjustable features to enhance your listening experience, but if not set correctly, these features can lead to unwanted whistling or squealing sounds. For example, the volume setting is an important factor. When the volume is turned up too high, your hearing aid may pick up sounds it has already amplified, causing feedback.

Additionally, your hearing aid’s program settings can affect feedback issues. Many hearing aids have different modes designed for varying environments, like a setting for quiet spaces or one for noisy areas. If your hearing aid is in the wrong mode for the current environment, it can amplify sounds more than necessary, leading to feedback. Other settings, like noise reduction, may also be less effective if not properly adjusted to your specific hearing needs. Working with your hearing instrument specialist to ensure the settings are properly tuned for your lifestyle can help reduce the chance of feedback and provide clearer sound.

When to Consult a Hearing Instrument Specialist About Feedback?

If you’ve tried troubleshooting your hearing aids and the feedback issue persists, it may be time to consult a hearing instrument specialist. While some minor adjustments, like changing the ear tips or cleaning the device, can be done on your own, ongoing feedback that doesn’t improve with these fixes might signal a more complex issue. A hearing specialist has the tools and expertise to resolve feedback problems that are difficult to fix on your own, ensuring your hearing aids are functioning correctly.

In addition, if you’re experiencing discomfort from the feedback, it’s important to seek professional help. A hearing instrument specialist can assess the fit of your hearing aids and make adjustments to ensure they’re comfortable and providing clear sound. Consulting with a hearing instrument specialist will help you avoid ongoing discomfort and get your hearing aids back to providing the best listening experience possible.

If you’re dealing with feedback issues or simply want to make sure your hearing aids are working at their best, it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment with a hearing instrument specialist. They can assess your situation and resolve any problems you’re experiencing, ensuring your hearing aids are properly adjusted and functioning effectively.