Is your hearing aid whistling?

A well-fitting hearing aid that is working properly should not whistle. That whistle is actually called feedback. Whistling can be caused by:

• The hearing aid is not being inserted into the ear correctly – Make sure the audiologist at your hearing aid supplier shows you how to correctly insert it before you leave with your new aid. Putting the aid into your ear will seem clumsy at first, it will take some practice. It’s not always a case of simply pushing it in – you will likely need to twist it around as you insert it.
• The ear mould does not fit correctly – An ear grows and changes shape continuously. An ear mould that fitted you three years ago may not fit you now. You may need to get a new ear mould for your aid – this will be much cheaper than getting a completely new one.
• Cracked or defective tubing – The tubing on BTE hearing aids can become defective.
• The aid is at full volume – Hearing aids are normally worn below full volume. If you find that you need to turn yours onto full all of the time, it may be because your aid is not functioning correctly or because you need a stronger one.