Hearing aids are a great technological device that allows those with hearing loss to feel more connected to their loved ones than ever. They’re also common with nearly 28.8 million Americans potentially benefitting from them. However, it can be irritating, painful or embarrassing if they happen to function improperly.
One such improper function is feedback. Hearing aid feedback is a sound wave that escapes the ear canal and hits the hearing aid microphone, resulting in a squeal or whistling sound. It’s not harmful but prevents you from hearing properly, so it’s important to investigate the cause and act.
Acoustical, Mechanical and Electronic Feedback
There are a few types of hearing aid feedback. These include:
- Acoustical: When sound amplified by the hearing aid itself is picked up by the hearing aid microphone. This is often caused by improper fit or earwax buildup.
- Mechanical feedback: Vibrations are created when the speaker in the hearing aid contacts the casing.
- Electronic: Occurs when there are problems with the electrical circuits in the device.
Hearing aids can also produce a static sound, usually caused because it needs to be serviced. If you experience a static sound while listening to your barista repeat your order at Café Flore, contact your hearing specialist as you may need to bring the device in.
Fixes For Feedback
An adjustment period is natural when using hearing aids for the first time. But feedback should be investigated. If you experience feedback with your hearing aids, try the following tactics to solve the issue:
- Reposition your hearing aids. They could be placed improperly.
- Clean your ears of excess earwax.
- Use a hearing aid cleaning kit to thoroughly clean your hearing aids of earwax.
- Check the volume. Sometimes hearing aids can produce feedback when the hearing aid isn’t set to the correct volume.
- Change the batteries, if applicable.
If these simple fixes don’t appear to work, schedule an appointment with your hearing specialist. Feedback is less likely among newer models of hearing aids and you may need an upgrade, or your hearing aids require a mechanical or electrical fix.
Hearing aids are devices that experience wear and tear and, like most technologies, become dated with time. See your hearing specialist with any issues, and they can ensure you have the model best suited to your needs and lifestyle and that they are functioning optimally.
For questions about hearing aids, or to schedule a hearing test, contact Gulf Coast Audiology to schedule an appointment today.