Wearing earrings while using hearing aids is a common concern for people newly adapting to their devices. For those who enjoy accessorizing, the fear is often that the devices will eliminate personal style choices, but this is rarely the case. Combining the two requires a practical approach and some mindful choices, but it is absolutely possible to wear earrings comfortably without compromising the function of your hearing devices. The success of wearing both depends largely on the specific style of the hearing aid and the physical design of the chosen jewelry.
Understanding Compatibility by Hearing Aid Style
The primary factor determining earring compatibility is the physical location of the hearing aid components. Devices that sit entirely within the ear canal, such as In-The-Ear (ITE) or In-The-Canal (ITC) aids, offer the most freedom for traditional lobe piercings. Since the device is housed fully inside the pinna, there is minimal conflict with the surrounding earlobe space. The only potential issue is the size of the earring back, which should not press against the ear opening or the device itself.
The greatest challenge arises with Behind-The-Ear (BTE) and Receiver-In-Canal (RIC) aids, which feature a casing that rests behind the ear. This casing occupies the space where large hoops, long dangles, or thick earring backs might fall. This physical overlap creates potential for discomfort or interference with the device’s function.
For BTE and RIC users, the difference between earring styles becomes clear. Small stud earrings, which sit flush against the earlobe, present a low conflict potential because they do not extend into the area behind the ear. Conversely, large, heavy, or dangling earrings can easily bump the hearing aid casing, causing a shift in the device’s positioning. The constant contact from a moving earring can press the hearing aid out of its proper placement, which affects sound quality and comfort.
Practical Strategies for Wearing Both
Successfully combining jewelry and hearing aids starts with a specific order of application. Always secure your hearing aid first, positioning the casing behind the ear and the dome or mold correctly in the canal, before attempting to put on any earrings. This ensures the device is seated correctly to deliver sound and reduces the chance of accidental dislodgement.
When inserting an earring post, pay close attention to the placement of the earring back, particularly with BTE or RIC models. The back should not touch or press against the tubing, wire, or the hearing aid casing, as this creates a pressure point. Choosing earrings with flat or low-profile backs, such as secure screw-backs or flat-disc designs, minimizes interference and physical discomfort.
Avoiding acoustic feedback is important, as metal rubbing on the plastic casing can generate static or a whistling sound. This feedback occurs when sound from the receiver leaks out and is picked up by the microphone. Selecting lightweight earrings made from materials like acrylic, resin, or lightweight metals is advisable, as they are less likely to cause friction or exert pressure that shifts the device.
Regular cleaning of both the hearing aids and the earrings is necessary when they are worn in close proximity. The tight space between the jewelry and the device can trap sweat, oils, and debris more easily. This buildup can potentially affect the sensitive electronics of the hearing aid or cause skin irritation around the earlobe, making a hygiene routine important for maintenance.
Exploring Alternative Jewelry Options
When traditional earlobe earrings conflict with BTE devices, several alternatives exist that bypass the conflict zone. Piercings located away from the typical hearing aid path, such as helix, conch, or tragus piercings, can be good options. However, it is wise to consult with an audiologist before getting a new piercing, as some inner-ear piercings may interfere with custom molds or receiver placement.
For those who want to avoid new piercings altogether, decorative options that do not occupy the earlobe space offer versatility. Ear cuffs, for example, wrap around the outer cartilage of the ear and can be easily adjusted to avoid contact with the hearing aid casing. Similarly, ear climbers, which follow the curve of the earlobe upward, can provide a decorative element without the dangling movement that causes friction.
Some companies offer specialized jewelry that integrates directly with the hearing aid, such as decorative chains or safety rings that attach to a silicone holster. These pieces not only accessorize the hearing aid but also serve a functional purpose by tethering the device to the ear, reducing the risk of loss or accidental drops. Choosing decorative hair accessories or necklaces that draw attention away from the ears provides another method for personal expression.