The frustration of having a hearing aid constantly slip out is a common experience, often leading to concerns about potential loss or damage. A securely fit device is necessary for both comfort and optimal sound performance, so experiencing movement can be highly disruptive. Fortunately, this issue is rarely an unfixable flaw in the device itself. The solution often involves minor adjustments to the hardware or a change in daily maintenance habits, starting with understanding the specific cause.
When the Device Itself is the Problem
A primary reason a hearing aid may not stay put relates directly to the size and shape of the ear dome or custom earmold. If the dome is too small, it cannot create the necessary seal and will easily migrate out of the ear canal during normal activity. Conversely, a dome that is too large can be difficult to insert fully and may slowly push itself back out of the ear over time.
Custom-molded hearing aids can become loose if the impression is no longer accurate, despite being designed for a precise fit. Changes in body weight, whether gain or loss, can alter the dimensions of the ear canal tissue, requiring a new mold impression for a proper seal. Aging also contributes to gradual changes in the ear’s shape, making periodic re-fitting an expected part of long-term hearing aid use.
The device style, particularly Behind-The-Ear (BTE) or Receiver-In-Canal (RIC) models, can influence stability. If the thin wire or tubing connecting the main unit to the earpiece is either too long or too short, it can exert an improper pulling force on the dome or mold. This constant tension can work the device loose from its secure seating inside the ear canal. Additionally, soft tubing and domes degrade over time, losing the firmness or friction needed, necessitating a simple replacement of these parts.
Causes Related to Ear Canal Anatomy and Movement
Even with a perfectly sized device, the dynamic nature of the ear canal itself can lead to slippage. One of the most frequent culprits is the natural production of cerumen (earwax), which can interfere with the fit. As cerumen builds up, it physically blocks the ear canal, either preventing the hearing aid from fully seating or actively pushing it back toward the opening.
Jaw and muscle movement plays a significant role in dislodging devices due to the close anatomical relationship between the ear canal and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). When you chew, talk, or yawn, the cartilaginous portion of the ear canal changes shape noticeably. Studies have shown that this movement can change the canal’s cross-sectional area by as much as 25%. This continuous change in geometry creates a mechanism that literally forces the hearing aid to “walk out” of the ear canal.
Moisture and sweat also contribute to loss of retention, particularly for individuals who are active or live in humid climates. Sweat acts as a lubricant, reducing the friction between the hearing aid shell and the skin of the ear canal. This reduced grip makes it much easier for the device to slip out during movement or when jaw movement applies pressure. This issue is especially noticeable in smaller devices that rely entirely on the friction fit within the ear canal.
Troubleshooting and Long-Term Solutions
Correct insertion technique is a simple fix that many users overlook. When inserting the device, gently pulling the earlobe downward and backward helps to straighten the ear canal, allowing the dome or mold to be seated more deeply past the first bend. The device must be twisted until it is fully seated and rests flush against the outer ear, ensuring the tubing lies flat.
Regular maintenance of both the ear and the device ensures long-term stability. Users should inspect the ear canal for excessive cerumen buildup, as the hearing aid itself can block the wax’s natural outward migration. Professional ear cleaning may be necessary for significant impaction that is pushing the device out. Cleaning the hearing aid’s domes and wax guards daily prevents debris from compromising the acoustic seal and fit.
If a perfect fit remains elusive, professional intervention is the appropriate next step for a lasting solution. An audiologist can take a new impression of the ear canal to create a precisely fitting custom mold, especially if your ear shape has changed. They can also recommend retention accessories, such as a retention lock or sport lock, which are small, flexible pieces that anchor the device within the folds of the outer ear. For temporary, high-security needs, a medical-grade double-sided tape or adhesive can be applied to the back of the device to secure it behind the ear during demanding physical activities.