7 reasons why your hearing aids are whistling
Understanding why hearing aids whistle
Why do hearing aids whistle?
If you notice a whistling sound in your hearing aids, you’re definitely not alone. It’s known as hearing aid feedback, and it’s a high-pitched noise that can occur when sound that should go into your ear canal is detected by the microphone of your hearing aids and gets amplified.
This is different from tinnitus, where you hear a high-pitched noise coming from inside your ear. Hearing aid feedback is common and often easy to fix. Here are seven possible reasons for whistling and what you can do about it.
How to stop hearing aid feedback
Reason 1: Improper fit
Solution: Fitted Earmolds
Ensure your earmolds are properly fitted so they sit securely and comfortably in your ears. If you’re unsure whether your current fit is correct, schedule a visit with your hearing care professional for guidance and support
Reason 2: Earwax or debris buildup
Solution: Examination and Cleaning
Have your ears examined and cleaned by a professional, and also check your hearing aids to make sure the receivers and vents (tiny openings in the hearing aid tubes) are not clogged.
It's best to have the wax professionally removed for clear, comfortable hearing.
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Reason 3: Damage to hearing aid tubing
Solution: Replace Tube
Visit your hearing centre to arrange a replacement tube.
Reason 4: Volume set too high
Solution: Adjust Volume
Reduce the volume of your hearing aids and avoid increasing it to the point where sounds become loud enough to cause feedback. Modern hearing aids include advanced technology designed to minimize this.
If you feel you need more volume, follow up with your hearing care professional. They can fine-tune your hearing aid settings to ensure optimal comfort and performance.
Reason 5: Incorrect insertion
If your hearing aids aren’t fitting just right, sound can get out and be picked up again through the microphones, which leads to a whistling sound
Solution
Correct sides
Identify the left (blue) and right (red) devices
Handling
Hold your hearing aids between your thumb and forefinger
Inserting
Gently insert it into your ear canal, following the natural shape, until snug.
Reason 6: Your hearing has changed
If your hearing loss has worsened and you find yourself turning up the volume on your hearing aids, there is a chance you could experience whistling.
Solution: Visit Us
If home cleaning and maintenance aren’t helping you enjoy clear and comfortable sound, consult an hearing care professional for personalized advice.
You may need a different dome or even a custom earmold for a better seal and to help prevent feedback. Switching to a better fitting option often solves the problem.
Reason 7: Technical malfunction
Solution: Contact Us
Nobody likes a technical malfunction, especially not with hearing aids. Reach out to your hearing care professional so they can help you investigate and ensure your hearing aids are correctly adjusted or repaired.
1. Widex: 5 Reasons why your hearing aids are whistling:
https://www.widex.com/en-ca/blog/global/5-reasons-why-your-hearing-aids-are-whistling/
2. HearUSA: How to Use and Wear Signia Hearing Aids | HearUSA Support: https://www.hearusa.com/support/signia/use-and-wear/#inserting-signia-hearing-aids
3. Surmeli M, Deveci I, Canakci H, Canpolat MS, Karabulut B, Yilmaz AAS. Effect of Body Mass Index on Auricular Morphology and Auditory Functions. Ear, Nose & Throat Journal. 2019;98(7):E81-E86. doi:10.1177/0145561319840579
