Hearing aids restore or improve the perception of sound, significantly enhancing the user’s quality of life. Proper insertion is crucial; an incorrectly placed hearing aid can cause discomfort, produce feedback noise, and fail to provide the intended amplification. This guide offers practical, step-by-step instructions to ensure your device is seated correctly for optimal performance and comfort.
Essential Pre-Insertion Preparation
Before handling your hearing aids, prepare both yourself and the devices to prevent damage and ensure hygienic use. Start by thoroughly washing and drying your hands to remove dirt or oils that could transfer to the electronic components or your ear canal. This step helps maintain the longevity and cleanliness of the device.
You must correctly identify which hearing aid belongs to which ear, as they are custom-programmed and shaped for the right or left side. Manufacturers typically use a universal color-coding system: red indicates the right ear, while blue signifies the left ear. This indicator may be found on the body of the aid, the battery door, or the receiver tip.
Confirm that the device is powered on and functioning before insertion. If using disposable batteries, ensure the correct size is seated securely. If it is a zinc-air battery, allow a one-to-five-minute “breathing” period after removing the protective tab for full activation. To check functionality, cup the device in your hand; a brief, high-pitched squeal confirms the battery is active and the microphone is picking up sound.
Step-by-Step Insertion by Device Type
Behind-the-Ear (BTE) and Receiver-in-Canal (RIC/RITE)
For BTE and RIC style aids, insertion begins with the part that goes into the ear canal, such as the dome, ear tip, or custom earmold. Hold the thin wire or tube near the ear tip between your thumb and forefinger and gently guide it into your ear canal. Pulling the outer ear upward and backward with your opposite hand can straighten the ear canal, making insertion easier.
Once the ear tip is securely in place, position the main body of the hearing aid. Lift the unit and place it gently over the top of your ear, settling it snugly behind the ear. The wire or tubing should lie flat against the side of your head, without any kinks or tension.
In-the-Ear (ITE) and In-the-Canal (ITC)
In-the-Ear and In-the-Canal devices are typically custom-molded to fit the unique shape of your outer ear and canal. Hold the device between your thumb and forefinger, aligning the canal-facing tip with your ear opening. The correct orientation usually means the longer, thinner part of the aid follows the curve of your outer ear, known as the concha.
Gently insert the canal tip first, then use a slight rotational or rocking motion to guide the rest of the shell into place. The device should feel snug and secure, sitting flush within the ear bowl. If your device includes a removal string or handle, ensure it is positioned for easy access later.
Seating Check
After insertion, perform a quick seating check to confirm the hearing aid is fully in place and sealed. Lightly push on the device with your fingertip to ensure it does not move or feel loose. The aim is a comfortable, sealed fit, which prevents sound leakage and acoustic feedback.
Troubleshooting Immediate Post-Insertion Issues
A common issue immediately following insertion is acoustic feedback, which manifests as a high-pitched whistling or squealing sound. This noise occurs when amplified sound escapes the ear canal and is re-amplified by the microphone, indicating a poor seal. To address this, gently push or wiggle the device until the whistling stops, indicating it has settled into a better position.
If the whistling persists, the device may not be seated deeply enough, or earwax may be blocking the canal, reflecting sound outward. If re-seating the device does not help, check the dome or earmold for wax and ensure the device is fully inserted to create a proper acoustic seal. Persistent feedback may suggest the dome or earmold size is no longer appropriate and needs adjustment by a hearing professional.
Discomfort or a feeling of looseness after insertion often points to an issue with placement or fit. If the device feels uncomfortable or presses painfully on your outer ear, gently remove and re-insert it, ensuring you do not force it. If the hearing aid feels too loose, ensure that any retention lock or tail is tucked correctly into the lower part of the ear bowl, which anchors the device securely.