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Feedback (or whistling) and discomfort are the two most common problems with ear moulds.
Feedback is caused by amplified sounds from the hearing aid leaking out from inside the ear through tiny spaces between the ear mould and the ear, and then going back into the microphone of the hearing aid.
There are five things which can affect or cause feedback:
What can I do to stop feedback?
The best solution is often a new ear mould. While you are waiting for the new moulds to come back from the laboratory you may find that using a lubricant like Auragel will help by filling the spaces between the mould and the ear. You can get Auragel from your Hearing Australia centre. Alternatively, a light smear of Vaseline or KY gel on the mould can help.
If your child has ear infections or skin problems we recommend you check with your doctor first before using Auragel or Vaseline.
Can I get new moulds quickly in an emergency?
Urgent ear moulds can be made up quickly. Hearing Australia centres have a courier service to the ear mould laboratories, and large metropolitan centres usually have a daily collection. If the ear impression is taken just before the courier pickup it will get to the mould laboratory – and back to you – with a minimum of delay, usually within a week.
What can be done if there is a chronic feedback problem?
Your audiologist can ask the ear mould laboratories for “problem” ear moulds to be specifically handled.
Sometimes it’s a process of trial and error, but a solution can usually be found.
As already mentioned, people who wear powerful hearing aids need to have firmly fitting ear moulds. This is when sore ears can become a problem.
When the ear mould laboratory gets each ear impression they dip it in wax to smooth out any irregularities. If asked by the audiologist, they will put extra wax or “build up” around those parts of the ear mould where sound commonly leaks out causing feedback. While this often solves the whistling problem, it can cause pressure points and sore spots. It can be quite a delicate job, balancing build up to stop feedback without causing pressure points.
If an ear mould hurts, make an appointment to see your audiologist. Some trimming of the ear mould may be all that is required, or perhaps special instructions regarding build up and ear mould materials to the laboratory may also be necessary.
Ear mould materials
There are several different types of ear mould materials varying in softness and non-allergenic properties. Some people will do better with a particular type of ear mould material and your audiologist may try more than one type before finding the best one.
Ear moulds should always be kept as clean and dry as possible. If ear infections or skin irritations are a problem, ear mould hygiene is even more critical.
Wipe the ear moulds with a damp cloth and remove any wax from the canal of the mould every time you take them out.
If your child wears behind-the-ear hearing aids, you can wash the ear mould with warm soapy water.
Washing a behind-the-ear hearing aid’s ear mould.
The tubing must be dry inside before it is reattached to the hearing aid. An air puffer does this well and these are available from your local Hearing Australia centre.
You can use disinfectants in the washing water, though they can cause some mould materials to deteriorate more quickly.
In-the-ear hearing aids should never be immersed in water as the electronic components are inside the ear mould. Just wipe over with a damp cloth and remove any wax carefully with the small tool provided.
Examine the ear mould regularly. If it is becoming loose in the ear, hard or discoloured, go to your Hearing Australia centre to check if a new one needs to be made. Hard tubing should be replaced before it splits.
Carefully clean the ear mould every time you take the hearing aid out.
If you do need a new mould back in a hurry, ask the audiologist to make the impression “urgent” and come into the hearing centre to collect it.
If there is a persistent problem with feedback or discomfort, make an appointment to discuss it with your audiologist. As early as you can, teach children how to look after their own ear moulds and keep them clean.
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Disclaimer: The information contained on this website is not intended as a substitute for independent professional advice.