A proper fit for a hearing aid requires physical comfort, secure retention, and optimal acoustic sealing. This ensures the device remains stable throughout the day, preventing it from slipping out during movement or speech. A secure fit also delivers sound effectively into the ear canal, preventing sound leakage that causes irritating feedback or whistling noises. Consistent and comfortable wear maximizes the benefit derived from the device’s programming.
Essential Preparation Before Insertion
Before insertion, establish a clean routine by washing and drying your hands thoroughly to prevent transferring oils or bacteria onto the device or into the ear canal. Next, visually inspect the hearing aid, using a soft, dry cloth and a wax pick to clear any debris from the dome, earmold, and microphone ports. Confirm the correct orientation for each ear, typically indicated by color-coding (red for right, blue for left). Finally, ensure the device is powered on, either by checking the battery level or by closing the battery door just before insertion.
Step-by-Step Insertion for Different Styles
Insertion technique varies significantly depending on whether the device is a Behind-The-Ear (BTE) or Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) model, or an In-The-Ear (ITE) or Completely-in-Canal (CIC) model.
BTE and RIC Devices
For BTE or RIC styles, insert the soft dome or custom earmold into the ear canal first. Gently pull the outer ear upward and backward with the opposite hand to straighten the ear canal, then guide the dome or mold into place until it sits snugly. Once the in-canal piece is secured, lift the main unit and tuck it behind the ear, ensuring the wire or tubing lies flush against the side of the head.
ITE and CIC Devices
ITE or CIC devices are single units requiring slight rotation for proper seating. Hold the device with the canal-facing tip pointed toward the ear canal opening, often aligning the removal string toward the bottom. Insert the canal portion first, then use a gentle twisting motion to rotate the faceplate into the outer ear’s concha bowl until it is flush with the skin. For the smallest CIC models, twisting combined with pulling the earlobe downward helps the device slide past the ear canal curves.
Checking for Comfort and Acoustic Seal
Once the hearing aid is inserted, verify proper seating using both a physical and an acoustic check. Physically, the device should feel secure and comfortable, creating no immediate pressure points or pain. Use a mirror to confirm the faceplate or dome/mold is flush with the ear opening. The “tug test” confirms security; a properly sealed aid will resist gentle pulling, indicating slight suction. Acoustically, a correct seal is confirmed if your own voice sounds slightly muffled or “boomy” (occlusion); a high-pitched whistle suggests a sound leak.
Resolving Common Fit Issues
The most common issue is acoustic feedback (high-pitched whistling), caused by amplified sound leaking out and re-entering the microphone. The immediate remedy is a full re-insertion, ensuring the dome or earmold is pushed in deeply enough to create a complete seal. If whistling persists, check for earwax blocking the speaker, which requires cleaning or a wax guard change. For pain or pressure points, inspect the shell for sharp edges or debris before attempting a gentler re-insertion. Persistent discomfort or slipping that cannot be resolved by self-adjustment requires professional intervention for adjustment or remolding.