If you experience a whistling sound in your hearing aid, you're not alone. It’s referred to as feedback, and it’s a common condition that can occur for several reasons. A malfunction, interference from electronics, or sound bounce-back from surrounding objects or individuals can all contribute to feedback. It can be uncomfortable and even disruptive to your hearing, but the following guide offers tips to reduce whistling.

Do:

Clean your hearing aid daily.

Hearing devices work by sending sound into your ear canal. With regular use, your device can easily become clogged with earwax and other debris, inhibiting audio performance and potentially causing sound bounceback and whistling. To prevent this, ensure your ears are clean before inserting your device each day. Additionally, check the hearing aid to ensure the receivers and vents are free of buildup.

Push your hearing device further into your ear.

If your device isn't inserted deep enough in your ear canal, it can inhibit the seal, causing it to interfere with surrounding electrical devices and individuals. Likewise, as you wear your device throughout the day, it may become loose due to activities such as walking, hair brushing, or even talking and chewing. Ensure a tight seal by adjusting your device throughout the day, especially if you're experiencing an increase in whistling. 

Don’t:

Let your hearing aid get wet.

While you likely know not to wear your device while swimming, showering, or receiving salon treatments, storing it improperly can result in excess moisture that may damage sensitive internal components. Avoid keeping your hearing aid in the bathroom, especially during a bath or shower. Instead, consider housing it in a dehumidifier case to prevent electronic malfunctions caused by water vapor.

Turn the volume up too high.

While you may be tempted to turn the volume up on your hearing device in certain circumstances, doing so can do more harm than good. When the sound is too loud, it can cause feedback resulting in a loud whistling that is uncomfortable to your ears and may even be heard by those around you. If you're experiencing feedback, consider turning the volume down until it dissipates. If you're unable to hear at a reduced volume, talk with your doctor or audiologist to adjust or change your device. 

For hearing aid repairs or discussing changes in your hearing, contact Russellville Hearing Clinic in Arkansas. For over 20 years, Dr. Charlie Palmer has provided personalized treatments and state-of-the-art technology to help those dealing with hearing loss. Call (479) 968-7250 to schedule an appointment, or visit online to learn more about his services.