Hearing Aid Troubleshooting

Why Is My Hearing Aid Whistling?

That sharp squeal from a hearing aid is called feedback. It happens when amplified sound escapes from the ear, reaches the hearing aid microphone, and is amplified again. The good news: it is often caused by something simple.

1. The hearing aid is not seated correctly

A hearing aid, dome, or earmold that is not fully inserted can allow sound to leak out.

Try this: Remove the hearing aid and insert it again carefully. Make sure the dome or earmold feels snug, but never force it.

2. Earwax is blocking the ear canal

Earwax can block sound from moving naturally into the ear. The sound may then bounce back toward the hearing aid and cause whistling.

Do not push cotton swabs or other objects into the ear canal. Have your ear checked by a qualified healthcare or hearing professional.

3. The volume is too high

Turning the hearing aid up beyond what its fitting can comfortably handle may trigger feedback.

Try this: Lower the volume one or two steps. If that stops the whistle but makes speech too soft, the hearing aid may need professional adjustment.

4. The dome or earmold is loose or worn

Domes can stretch, harden, tear, or become the wrong size for the ear. Earmolds can also lose their seal as the ear changes over time.

A fresh dome or a better-fitting earmold may solve the problem. Use only the type and size recommended for your hearing aid.

5. A hat, hand, phone, or hug is close to the hearing aid

Objects near the microphone can reflect sound back into it. Brief whistling while putting on a hat, hugging someone, or holding a phone near the ear can be normal.

6. The tubing, receiver, or hearing aid needs service

Cracked tubing, a loose receiver, moisture, debris, or internal damage can cause persistent feedback. Behind-the-ear tubing may become stiff or split with age.

7. Your hearing or ear has changed

Changes in hearing, ear-canal shape, weight, or medical conditions can affect the fitting. The hearing aid may need to be tested and reprogrammed.

What should I check first?

Reinsert the hearing aid correctly.
Check the dome or earmold for damage or looseness.
Lower the volume slightly.
Clean the outside of the device and change the wax guard only as directed.
Notice whether it whistles constantly or only when something is close to your ear.

When should I get professional help?

Contact a hearing professional when the whistling is constant, suddenly begins without an obvious reason, occurs with pain or drainage, or continues after basic troubleshooting. The hearing aid may need cleaning, repair, a different fitting piece, or updated programming.

Important: This article offers general educational information and is not a diagnosis or a substitute for medical care. Sudden hearing loss, severe ear pain, drainage, dizziness, or a foreign object in the ear should be evaluated promptly by an appropriate healthcare professional.

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