Feedback or Whistling with Core One

Feedback/Whistling/Screeching Noise

Are you hearing feedback, whistling or screeching noise from your Core One? Here are some ways to help alleviate that.

Make sure you are wearing your hearing aids correctly.

  • Insert properly with Gentle Rotation: Insert the hearing aid into the ear canal and gently rotate it backwards or forwards to ensure that the microphone, typically located near the bottom of the aid, is not blocked by the tragus
  • Use the Right Size Dome or Shell: Ensure that the dome of the hearing aid is properly fitted. A good fit reduces the risk of the tragus pressing against the aid, obstructing the mic.
  • Adjust the Angle of the Aid: After insertion, you can slightly adjust the angle to ensure the mic is facing outward, unobstructed by the tragus or any part of the ear. The aid should fit comfortably without putting pressure on the ear's outer folds.
  • Trim Excess Hair Around the Ear: Sometimes, hair can brush against the microphone, causing feedback or blockage. Keeping the area around the ear clean can help.
  • Try Different Ear Position: Some people may find that pulling the earlobe slightly down or out while inserting the aid helps position the aid.

Make sure your volume isn't set too high

Having a high volume can cause sound leakage which is when sound escapes the ear canal, increases the likelihood that sound from the receiver to re-enter the microphone causing feedback, increases sensitivity in the microphone making it more likely to pick up unintended sounds, can cause excessive vibration of sound waves can bounce back to the microphone

Lowering the volume and ensuring a snug fit can help minimize feedback.

 

Check to make sure the ear tips are not broken or clogged

Having a broken ear tip can cause sound leakage from not having a proper seal in the ear and imbalance in acoustic pathways which is when the sound can travel unevenly through your ear canal leading to echos or amplified sound waves reflecting back to the microphone and not being able to fit the hearing aid in properly. While not having a clean ear tip can cause the sound flow to be blocked from reaching the ear drum.

  • Replace Broken Ear Tips; If the ear tips are damaged, replace it immediately. Most hearing aids come with replaceable tips or domes that are easy to swap. A properly sealed and fitted ear tip will reduce sound leakage and feedback.
  • Clean Clogged Ear Tips Regularly: Earwax and debris can easily clog ear tips, blocking sound. Use a soft brush, wax guard, or cleaning tool (included in kit) to gently clean the ear tips and remove any blockages.
  • Inspect Ear Tips Frequently: Regularly inspect your ear tips for any damage, wear, or clogging. Broken or worn tips are common sources of sound leakage that can lead to feedback, so catching this early prevent problems.

By keeping ear tips clean, ensuring they are intact, and maintaining a good fit, you can reduce the risk of feedback in your ITE hearing aids.

 

Watch for objects you are holding close to your hearing aid.

Objects like hands, phones hats etc. can reflect the amplified sound back into the microphone. When certain objects are too close to the microphone, it may pick up the sound that is being amplified from the receiver (speaker) of the aid. It can create an enclosed space which can trap the sound that cycles between the microphone and speaker. It can disrupt its position and objects like phones can emit electromagnetic interference which can disrupt the hearing aids normal functioning. 

  • Position Objects Away from the Hearing Aid: When using objects like phone, hats, hands, glasses, etc... keep them slightly away from the ear to reduce the chance of sound reflecting back into the microphone. A small distance can help prevent the feedback loop.
  • Use Hearing Aid- Compatible Accessories: If you're using a phone, try using a hearing aid-compatible phone or hands-free accessories which can allow you to hold the device away from your hearing aid
  • Use Speakerphone or Headphones: Instead of holding a phone directly to your ear, use the speakerphone function or headphones designed for hearing aid user, which can help prevent feedback.\
  • Avoid Covering the Hearing Aid: Try to avoid completely covering your hearing aid with objects such as hands, scarves or hats. Allow the sound to escape naturally without being trapped between the object and the hearing aid.

Be mindful of how you position objects near your hearing aid and using accessories that are compatible, you can significantly reduce feedback issues.

 

Make sure there is no Ear Wax Build-up

Having earwax buildup can cause blockage of the sound outlet, trapping amplified sound which can cause sound to bounce back and be picked up by the microphone. It can reflect sound waves back towards the hearing aid microphone. It can reduce ear canal space which can cause sound pressure build up and for your hearing aid to sit improperly.

  • Regular Cleaning of Hearing Aid: Clean your hearing aids, regularly using the cleaning tools provided by the manufacturer, such as a soft brush, wax guard or wire loop.
  • Keep the Ear Canal Clean: Regularly clean your ear canal to minimize earwax buildup. You can use over-the-counter earwax removal solutions or consult an audiologist or healthcare professional for safe ear cleaning.
  • Schedule Regular Professional Cleanings: Visit your audiologist regularly for professional hearing aid cleaning. They can remove any earwax that might be stuck inside the hearing aid's small opening, which can cause feedback.
  • Don't Insert hearing Aid into Wax-Filled Ears: If you notice earwax buildup in your ear canal, avoid inserting your hearing aids until the ear is cleaned. This reduces the risk of sound reflection and feedback.
  • Use Hearing Aid Dehumidifiers: Moisture from earwax can also cause feedback issues. Using a hearing aid dehumidifier overnight can keep the device dry and free from wax buildup.

By keeping your ears and hearing aids clean and free of earwax, you can significantly reduce the chance of feedback and maintain optimal hearing aid performance. 

 

 

 

If problems persist, contact our customer service team for assistance:

Customer Support
Contact Information

Monday - Friday 9:00am - 6:00pm PST

Phone: (909) 850-4788 | (866) 283-4262

Email: support@ceretone.com

http://support.ceretone.com

 

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