A hearing aid is an electronic device designed to amplify sound, improving a person’s ability to hear and communicate. For this technology to function optimally, it must be worn correctly, as an improper fit can compromise both comfort and sound quality. Learning the proper technique for insertion ensures the device provides consistent, clear auditory support throughout the day. This guide offers instructions to help you master the placement of your hearing aid for maximum benefit and security.
Handling and Pre-Insertion Checks
Before attempting to place the device into your ear, prepare both yourself and the hearing aid. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, ensuring they are completely dry afterward to prevent transferring moisture or oils to the sensitive electronics of the device. Next, confirm that the hearing aid is ready for use by verifying that the battery is fresh or that the rechargeable unit holds a sufficient charge.
You must correctly identify which device belongs to which ear, as they are custom-fitted and side-specific. Manufacturers often use a color-coding system, with red typically indicating the right ear and blue for the left ear. Visually inspect the ear tip, dome, or mold to ensure it is clear of any earwax or debris, which could obstruct sound delivery or prevent a proper seal. Confirm that your ear canal is not blocked by excessive cerumen, as this can affect the fit and lead to discomfort.
Step-by-Step Insertion Technique
The insertion process requires a gentle but deliberate approach, whether you use a Behind-The-Ear (BTE) model or an In-The-Ear (ITE) style.
For an ITE device, hold the hearing aid between your thumb and index finger, aligning the canal portion with the opening of your ear. Gently rotate the device slightly as you push it inward, following the natural curve of the ear canal until the faceplate sits flush against the outer ear.
When inserting a BTE or Receiver-In-Canal (RIC) device, focus on seating the ear mold or dome first. Use your opposite hand to gently pull the top of your ear upward and backward, which helps to straighten the ear canal for easier entry. Guide the tip of the dome or mold into the canal, pushing it in until it feels snug and secure.
Once the ear mold or dome is seated, position the main body of the BTE device. Place it over the top of your ear, tucking it neatly behind the earlobe. Ensure that the tubing or wire connecting the main body to the ear tip sits comfortably and is not twisted or pulling. For devices that include a retention lock or tail, tuck this small, flexible piece into the bowl of your outer ear to further secure the fit.
Ensuring Proper Fit and Addressing Feedback
After the hearing aid is in place, check immediately for comfort and security. The device should feel snug and secure enough to withstand normal movement, but it should not cause pain or excessive pressure in the ear canal. If you experience discomfort, gently adjust the position by pressing lightly on the device until it settles into a stable spot.
The most common sign of improper insertion is acoustic feedback, which manifests as a high-pitched whistling or squealing sound. This occurs when amplified sound leaks out of the ear canal and is picked up again by the hearing aid’s microphone, creating a sound loop. If you hear this whistling, it indicates that the seal in your ear canal is incomplete, often meaning the ear mold or dome requires slight repositioning.
To correct this issue, gently push the device further into the ear canal or adjust its angle to ensure the sound outlet is fully sealed. If the feedback persists after adjustment, it may also be caused by excessive earwax buildup obstructing the sound path, or the volume being set too high. Properly inserting the hearing aid ensures the sound is directed only into the ear canal, allowing the device to perform as intended.