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Whistling Hearing Aids: Causes and Solutions
Did you know that one of the most common complaints audiologists hear is whistling from hearing aids? It can be quite frustrating for those who experience it. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes of whistling in hearing aids and offer solutions to help reduce or eliminate the problem.
Earwax Build-up
One of the most common causes is due to a build-up of earwax. When earwax accumulates in the ear canal, it can create a blockage that prevents sound from properly entering the ear. This can cause feedback and ultimately result in a high-pitched whistling noise.
Loose Tubing
Another common cause of whistling hearing aids is due to loose tubing. If the tubing that connects your hearing aid to your earmold or tip is not snug, it can create a gap that allows air to leak out. This can also cause feedback and result in a whistling noise.
Hearing Aid Not Properly Fitted
It can also be if your hearing aid is not properly fitted. It can also cause whistling. If the hearing aid is too big or small for your ear canal, it can create a gap that allows air to escape and cause feedback.
Hearing Aid is Damaged
Finally, whistling can also be caused by damage to the hearing aid itself. For example, if the casing is cracked or the earmold is not fitted properly, this can also cause feedback and result in a whistling noise.
Clean Your Earwax
If you are experiencing whistling from your hearing aid, the first thing you should do is clean your earwax. You can do this by using a soft cloth to gently wipe away any wax build-up in your ear canal. Be sure not to insert anything into your ear canal, as this could cause further damage.
Wax Guard
You can try using a wax guard. Wax guards are small discs that fit over the hearing aid receiver and help to prevent earwax from clogging the device. If you already have a wax guard in place, try changing it out for a new one.
Check Your Tubing
If you are still experiencing whistling after cleaning your earwax, the next thing you should do is check your tubing. Make sure that the tubing is snug and secure before putting your hearing aid back on. You can try adjusting the tubing. If the tubing is too loose, try gently pushing it in until it is snug. If the tubing is too tight, try loosening it slightly.
You can also try changing the size or type of tubing you are using. For example, if you are using a thin tube, try switching to a thicker one. This will help to reduce any air leaks and ultimately reduce the amount of feedback. If you are still having trouble with whistling, please contact your audiologist for further assistance.
Get a Proper Fitting
If you are still experiencing whistling from your hearing aid, it is important to get a proper fitting. An audiologist will be able to determine the right size and style of hearing aid for your ear canal. They will also be able to make any necessary adjustments to ensure a snug and comfortable fit.
Professional Inspection
If you notice that your hearing aid is whistling, it's also a good idea to check for any damage. If there is physical damage to your hearing aid, it will need to be repaired or replaced. If you think the whistling may be due to damage to the hearing aid, bring it in for a professional inspection. A certified audiologist can take a look at the device and determine if it needs to be repaired or replaced.
Types of Frustrations Whistling Can Cause
There are different types of whistling that hearing aid users may experience. Some people may only notice it when they are in a quiet environment, while others may find that it is constant throughout the day. It can be frustrating for those who experience it because:
- It can be embarrassing, especially in public places
- It can be disruptive to conversations
- It makes it difficult to hear what others are saying
- It can cause headaches or dizziness
Whistling hearing aids can be quite frustrating, but hopefully, this blog post has helped to provide some solutions. However, if you are still having trouble, please contact your audiologist for further assistance. Also, if you have any questions or want to learn more about hearing aids, please call the Audiology and Hearing Aid Services at 912-351-3038. We are always happy to help!
