Ever feel like your voice is echoing inside your head when you wear hearing aids? That’s because of the occlusion effect. Are you also looking for open-fit hearing aids to reduce the impact of this effect? Don’t worry, we will help you. 

Here, we will explain this effect in detail, including its causes, solutions, and relation to hearing aids. Moreover, we will share the ideal hearing aids for this condition. Continue reading till the end to find all of this and more. 

What Is The Occlusion Effect?

The occlusion effect happens when something blocks the outer ear canal and makes the low-frequency sounds from your own body, like chewing, footsteps, or your voice, sound louder and deeper. It can make these sounds feel like they have an echo, boom, or hollow effect. 

It only affects low-pitched sounds you make yourself. Other sounds from outside, like other people talking or background noise, usually sound normal.  It’s common for people who use hearing aids or wear earmuffs and can sometimes feel uncomfortable.

Causes Of The Occlusion Effect

The occlusion effect occurs when something blocks the ear canal, and sounds become louder. Several factors can cause this effect, making it important to understand the underlying causes. Let's check these out.

  • Blocked Ear Canal: When something like hearing aids, earplugs, or earbuds blocks the ear canal, it stops low-frequency sounds from leaving the ear. These sounds reflect and make the sound louder.
  • Amplified body Sounds: When the ear canal is blocked, sounds from inside the body (like chewing, talking, or walking) resound because they can’t escape. The vibrations from these actions bounce back into the ear and make the sound more noticeable.
  • Ear Shape: People with smaller or unique ear canal shapes often feel the effect more strongly, as sound has less room to exit. When your ear canal is narrow, it traps more sound waves.
  • Hearing Aids: It could also be caused by hearing aids. It usually happens when they are not fitted properly or are designed without venting. That’s the reason it is also called the hearing aid occlusion effect. 

Relation Between Hearing Aids And Occlusion Effect

Hearing aids are closely linked to the occlusion effect because they partially or fully block the ear canal.  Many hearing aid users experience this effect, especially if they’re new to using the devices. Some hearing aids are designed with ventilation or open-fit styles to reduce it. The hearing aids with ventilation allow sounds to exit more freely and reduce this effect for a more comfortable and natural listening experience. There are two types of hearing aids. These include open fit and closed fit. 

Close-fit hearing aids cover or seal the ear canal more tightly. This complete blockage catches the sounds inside the ear and causes occlusion effect hearing aids. 

On the other hand, open-fit hearing aids are designed to leave a small space in the ear canal. It allows more natural airflow and helps to reduce this effect. 

How To Get Rid of It?

The occlusion effect can be uncomfortable, but there are several ways to reduce it. By adjusting your hearing aids or trying alternative solutions, you can improve comfort and restore natural sound perception. Let's check it out in detail. 

  • Switch to Open-Fit Hearing Aids: These hearing aids are the best choice for this condition due to the small openings in them. 
  • Adjust Hearing Aid Settings: Some hearing aids come with settings that help to reduce the effect. It's best to talk to your audiologist about customizing these settings to minimize the amplification of body sounds.
  • Use Ventilated Earplugs: If you are using earplugs, choose the ones with ventilation holes, as they allow more sound to escape. It helps to prevent the sounds from bouncing back into the ear and causing an echo-like effect.
  • Choose Smaller or Different Hearing Aid Models: Some models are designed to fit better and reduce blockage, which can lessen the occlusion effect. A better fit allows for more natural sound processing and can minimize discomfort. Chosgo’s SmartU hearing aids can be a good option. 
  • Consult Your Audiologist: If the effect is irritating, your audiologist may recommend a different hearing aid style or adjustments to improve comfort and sound quality. They can also suggest solutions like adding vents or modifying the ear.

Chosgo Hearing Aids: The Best Choice For People With Occlusion

The occlusion effect is one of the major problems for people with hearing aids, but the right hearing aids can be very helpful in reducing these problems. Chosgo’s Receiver-in-Canal hearing aids are the best Ear occlusion treatment. 

The best part is that you don’t need thousands of dollars for these aids. You can even buy top models like V03B for just $399. Moreover, it also offers a 45-day free trial period with a money-back guarantee as well in case you don’t like them. Contact the Chosgo hearing team to get the most suitable hearing aids according to your needs.