A powerful tool combating hearing loss, a hearing aid is a great way for those with hearing loss to communicate with the world and engage socially. While they provide many benefits, hearing aids can also be challenging to use. One common problem is feedback. This is a high-pitched squealing sound when sounds escape from the hearing aid and are then picked up by the device’s microphone.
Feedback can be frustrating and embarrassing, particularly in public settings. The good news is that there are several ways to combat this problem. Here, we’ll explain what feedback is and how to prevent it.
What Is Hearing Aid Feedback?
Feedback is a loop occurring when amplified sound from the hearing aid is picked up by the microphone.
It most frequently happens when:
- Putting on or removing your hearing aids
- Hugging someone or putting a phone up to your ear
- If the hearing aid is not fitted correctly
- When something blocks or reflects sound into the microphone
Occasional feedback is quite normal. But if it is a frequent occurrence or constantly happening, the hearing aid might need to be seen by a hearing health professional.
Common Causes of Hearing Aid Feedback
While there might be several reasons for the feedback, it is important to identify the cause and find a solution. Here are some possibilities:
Poor Fit or Loose Earmold
When the hearing aid doesn’t fit properly, it can allow sound to escape from around the hearing aid and cause feedback. This typically occurs when the earmold becomes worn out or the shape of the ear has changed.
Blockages in the Ear Canal
Moisture in the ear and earwax can reflect sound back into the hearing aid, which can cause feedback.
Volume Set Too High
If the hearing aid’s volume is too loud, it can produce a sound loop because the ear can’t handle that much noise.
Cracked Tubing or Loose Parts
With behind-the-ear models, hearing aids can develop cracks in the tubing. This can create feedback when sound escapes through the cracks.
Incorrect Insertion
If the hearing aid is not placed correctly in the ear, it can cause sound to leak out and be picked up again by the microphone.
Close Proximity to Objects
When placing your hand near your hearing aid, it can reflect the sound and create feedback. This can be true when wearing hats or using a phone, too.
How to Reduce or Eliminate Feedback
There are several things to try to help minimize or completely eliminate feedback. The most common are below:
- Check the hearing aid’s fit
- Clean your ears and your hearing aids
- Lower the volume on your hearing aid when possible
- Inspect the tubing for cracks or leaks
- Try to reinsert your hearing aid
- Adjust any feedback management settings on your hearing aid
- Avoid covering your ears
When to See a Hearing Care Professional
If feedback becomes frequent or loud, don’t ignore it. A hearing health specialist can help by:
- Checking the device for damage
- Cleaning or replacing parts
- Reprogramming your hearing aid settings
- Taking new ear impressions for a better fit
Feedback can be a mild annoyance for some and a complete showstopper for others. It may discourage some from engaging socially and lead them to isolate themselves from the world. That is why it is essential that feedback that occurs frequently be addressed by a hearing health professional.
Conclusion
While hearing aid feedback is quite common, it is something that has a solution. Whether caused by a high volume setting or a poorly fitting hearing aid, it can be fixed. With proper care and regular cleaning coupled with support from your hearing health professional, you can once again enjoy clear sound and proper hearing without the annoyance of feedback.
Remember, hearing aids are meant to help you hear better and live fully. If you’re having trouble, don’t wait—help is available, and solutions are often simple. Reach out to a hearing health professional today and find out the details of how to stop feedback from occurring.