An audiologist explains how different hearing aid styles interact with headphones, what downsides to expect, and why Bluetooth streaming is often the better option.
Headphones and Custom In-the-Ear Hearing Aids
Custom in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids sit completely in the ear canal or in the bowl of the ear. Over-ear or on-ear headphones can rest on top of them, but there are important considerations:
- Upside: Allows you to use your headphones like anyone else.
- Downside: The sound from headphones can cycle back into the microphone, creating feedback (whistling).
- Comfort issue: Headphone pressure may press the aid into the ear, sometimes causing soreness or irritation with extended wear.
Headphones and Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) Hearing Aids
RIC hearing aids sit behind the ear with a small wire leading into the canal. Headphones sit over the pinna (outer ear), covering the hearing aid microphones.
- Upside: Works with many over-ear headphones, especially larger models that seal around the ear.
- Downside: Covering the microphones can reduce clarity and increase feedback risk. Headphone bands may also put pressure on the device behind the ear.
Other Hearing Aid Styles and Headphone Use
Some other hearing aid types interact differently with headphones:
- Behind-the-Ear (BTE): Bulky design makes it difficult to fit headphones comfortably.
- Completely-in-Canal (CIC): This is actually the style that works best with traditional headphones, since the aids sit deep inside the canal and do not interfere with headphone placement. This is especially beneficial because many CIC models do not have Bluetooth capability, making headphones an important option for streaming audio.
Best Types of Headphones for Hearing Aid Users
If you plan to wear headphones over hearing aids, some styles work better than others:
- Over-Ear Headphones: Large cushions that surround the ear are the most compatible. See recommended models on Amazon.
- Bone-Conduction Headphones: Sit on the cheekbones and bypass the ear canal entirely—ideal for hearing aid users. Browse bone-conduction options.
- On-Ear Headphones: Press directly against the aid and ear, which can cause pressure sores and feedback. Least recommended.
Tips for Reducing Problems
- Lower hearing aid volume slightly to reduce feedback when using headphones.
- Choose over-ear headphones with wide ear cups for comfort.
- Limit long sessions to avoid pressure-related soreness in the ear.
- Consider bone-conduction headphones if comfort or fit is an ongoing issue.
Headphones vs. Bluetooth Streaming
Most modern hearing aids now include Bluetooth streaming, which allows you to listen to calls, music, and podcasts directly in your devices without external headphones.
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Headphones Over Hearing Aids | Familiar use, no pairing needed, works with all audio sources | Feedback risk, pressure discomfort, reduced sound clarity |
| Bluetooth Streaming | Clear sound directly into hearing aids, no feedback, more comfortable | Battery drain, requires Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids or accessories |
If your hearing aids do not support Bluetooth directly, manufacturers like Oticon and ReSound offer accessories such as the ConnectClip or MultiMic to stream audio wirelessly.
When Headphones May Not Work Well
Some users may still struggle with headphones:
- Severe to profound hearing loss may require streaming for clarity.
- Noise-cancelling headphones can sometimes interfere with hearing aid microphones.
- Those with sensitive skin or ear conditions may find headphone pressure intolerable.
Final Thoughts
Yes—you can wear headphones over hearing aids, but it comes with trade-offs. ITE devices risk feedback and soreness, while RIC and BTE devices may not fit comfortably under headphone bands. CIC devices, however, often work best with traditional headphones since they sit deeper in the ear and many do not offer Bluetooth connectivity.
For most people, Bluetooth streaming is the better choice for sound quality, comfort, and reliability. If you do use headphones, over-ear or bone-conduction styles are your best bet.