VIEWMONT AUDIOLOGY, INC.

Audiology Viewmont Audiology Dr. Gordon L. Fletcher, Au.D. 336 10th Avenue ne • hickory nc 828-322-4327 Dr. Gordon L. Fletcher, Au.D. Question: My dad has a hearing aid but it whistles all the time. Why does it always do this? Dad doesn’t seem to hear the whistling. Answer: The sound you are referring to is called feedback. It is not normal for hearing aids to produce this sound constantly. First check to see if the hearing aid is inserted and positioned properly in the ear. If this does not take care of the problem, see an audiologist or return to where it was obtained. Although this sound can be due to an electronic problem with the hearing aid, it is usually related to a loose or poorly fitting device. Often the sound is caused by an accumulation of wax in the ear canal. Regular hearing aid checks are essential to monitor wax buildup, check for proper fit, and make sure the aids are working properly. This should help prevent feedback from occurring. If an individual has a severe hearing loss, he or she may not hear the feedback although others do. This underscores the importance of regular checkups.