Individuals with hearing loss can benefit from being fitted with custom hearing aids. While designed to enhance your auditory abilities, some patients report a whistling sound when wearing them. The following guide explains a few reasons why you're experiencing the issue, so you know how to troubleshoot with the help of your audiologist.

What Causes These Devices to Make Noise?

1. Improper Fit

Hearing aid earmolds are taken during your initial consultations as a way to ensure a perfect fit. That said, over time, the shape of your ears can change slightly, and as a result, the fit of your hearing aids can become less than ideal. Without sufficient room, whistling can occur. In this situation, you'll need new earmolds to create new devices to eliminate the feedback. 

2. Volume Issues

When you're exposed to background noise or having trouble following a conversation, it may be tempting to increase the volume of your hearing aids. Unfortunately, when these devices are turned up too high, noise may re-enter your aids, creating a feedback whistle. Lowering the volume may help. 

3. Damaged Tubing

Some hearing aids have receivers that hook around the back of the ear. The receiver is connected to the earmold microphone with tubing composed of medical plastic. While sturdy, this plastic tubing is exposed to the elements and can get jostled when aids are removed and inserted. Whistling could indicate a hole in the tubing or a loose connection. 

4. Obstructed Microphone

Hearing aids deliver sound directly to the ear canal. When the microphone is loose or dislodged, you may hear a whistling sound. Similarly, the sound will become distorted when there's a buildup of ear wax in the canal or surrounding the microphone. Cleaning the device and your ears may rectify the issue. 

Russellville Hearing Clinic is your go-to source for hearing aid repair if you notice a whistling sound. Led by Dr. Charlie Palmer, this state-of-the-art audiology center has served residents throughout Pope County, AR, for over two decades. To schedule your appointment, call today at (479) 968-7250. Visit their website for a comprehensive look at their specialties and to learn more about their commitment to helping every patient manage hearing loss.