Ever wondered why your hearing aid sometimes emits a high-pitched squeal? Is it a sign that something is wrong with the device? Not necessarily!

The squealing sound produced by hearing aids is known as "whistling" and is a type of feedback mechanism inherent to these devices. Therefore, it's essential to distinguish the reasons behind the hearing aid's 'squeal,' whether it's internal or external, and whether it's normal or abnormal.

Let's take a closer look together.

How to Differentiate Internal and External Whistling?

  1. External Whistling:

    • If the squeal is intermittent and loud, it's likely external whistling. This is considered normal and is usually caused by external factors, with the hearing aid itself mostly unaffected.
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  2. Internal Whistling:

    • If the squeal originates from inside the hearing aid and is relatively soft, it's likely internal whistling. In this case, the hearing aid may have a problem and requires prompt factory repair.
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  3. Simple Test:

    • With no damage to the hearing aid's shell or sound-conducting tubes, cover the sound outlet with your hand. If you hear a sound, it's internal whistling; if not, it's external.

Causes and Solutions for Internal Whistling:

  • Reasons for Internal Whistling:

    1. Insufficient internal space, causing components to be compressed.
    2. Vibrations dislocating internal components.
    3. Poor connection between the receiver and sound outlet.
    4. Moisture entering the hearing aid.
    5. Poor connection or detachment of microphone tubing.
    6. Proximity of microphone and receiver.
    7. Receiver touching the shell or other sensors.

  • Handling Internal Whistling:

    • For internal whistling, it's crucial to opt for professional "factory repair." Avoid attempting self-disassembly.

Causes and Solutions for External Whistling:

  • Reasons for External Whistling:

    1. Poorly fitted hearing aid.
    2. Low sealing of standard earplugs.
    3. Low sealing of custom ear molds.
    4. Damage to ear-back three-piece set (earplug, sound tube, ear hook).
    5. Custom device shell damage or inadequate sealing.
    6. Oversized ventilation holes or loose/fallen plugs.
    7. Poorly adjusted hearing aid, excessive high-frequency gain.

  • Handling External Whistling:

    • Solutions include proper hearing aid fitting, choosing suitable earplug heads, remaking ear molds, replacing damaged components, adjusting ventilation holes, and fine-tuning the hearing aid settings.

Conclusion:

In comparison to internal whistling, external whistling is more common. Whistling not only compromises comfort but also diminishes the effectiveness of hearing aids. If you experience whistling, seek assistance at a hearing center promptly, and avoid attempting DIY repairs.

Explore Chosgo hearing aids for a wide range of options, including the innovative SmartU Rechargeable Hearing Aids.