Ear tubes, also known as tympanostomy or ventilation tubes, are common, and their presence often raises concerns about wearing hearing aids. The short answer is yes; wearing hearing aids with ear tubes is generally possible and often necessary for individuals with hearing loss. Understanding the purpose of ear tubes and the physical mechanics of different hearing aid styles is necessary for a safe and functional outcome.
The Role of Ear Tubes in Hearing Health
Ear tubes are tiny, hollow cylinders placed by a specialist through a small opening in the eardrum. They primarily treat chronic otitis media, which involves persistent fluid buildup or repeated infections in the middle ear. The tubes hold the eardrum open, allowing air to flow into the middle ear and equalizing pressure.
The tubes help drain existing fluid and prevent future accumulation behind the eardrum. Fluid buildup causes temporary conductive hearing loss, making sound muffled. By ventilating the middle ear, the tubes restore the normal movement of the eardrum, resolving the conductive hearing loss.
Compatibility and Safety of Wearing Hearing Aids
Wearing a hearing aid with an ear tube is safe and common, especially if the individual has sensorineural hearing loss that the tube procedure does not correct. The primary safety concern is managing the open pathway created by the tube. This opening makes the middle ear vulnerable to moisture and external contaminants, which can lead to infection and drainage (otorrhea).
If drainage occurs, contact a healthcare provider immediately, as moisture can damage the hearing aid and indicates an active infection. The audiologist must carefully fit the device to ensure the hearing aid component does not interfere with or block the ventilation tube.
The hearing aid style minimizes risk. In-the-Ear (ITE) devices pose a higher risk of contact with drainage or irritating the eardrum. Behind-the-Ear (BTE) or Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) models are preferred because the main electronics sit outside the ear. Using BTE or RIC styles minimizes pressure on the eardrum and the tube insertion site.
Practical Considerations for Device Selection and Care
Selecting a hearing aid style that minimizes occlusion and direct canal contact is advisable for individuals with ear tubes. BTE and RIC hearing aids are recommended because they leave the ear canal more open and keep the electronics away from the tube site. The flexible tube or wire connecting the main unit to the earpiece is less likely to cause irritation or block the ventilation tube.
Daily maintenance is necessary to prevent moisture and debris accumulation. Users should employ a dedicated drying kit or dehumidifier every night to remove moisture, which is important due to the open nature of the ear canal. Regular cleaning of the earmold or dome with a soft, dry cloth is necessary to remove earwax and debris.
If exposed to water, such as during swimming or showering, special precautions are recommended by the physician. These usually involve custom-made earplugs to prevent water from entering the middle ear through the tube. Any instance of ear drainage requires immediate removal of the device and consultation with the audiologist and the specialist.