Hearing aid feedback is the whistling, squealing, or buzzing sound that happens when amplified sound escapes your ear and gets picked up again by the hearing aid microphone. This creates an acoustic loop — and the familiar high-pitched whistle many users experience.
Even though modern hearing aids include advanced feedback-cancellation technology, feedback can still occur due to fit issues, earwax, or programming problems. The good news: most cases can be fixed quickly once you know the cause.
Main Causes of Hearing Aid Feedback
1. Poor Fit or Loose Hearing Aids
If your hearing aid or dome doesn’t fit snugly, amplified sound leaks out and re-enters the microphone. This is one of the most common causes of feedback and often happens after:
- Weight loss
- Changes in ear canal shape
- Worn domes or tubing
2. Earwax Buildup
Earwax reflects sound back toward the hearing aid microphone and can trigger feedback even in properly fitted devices. Professional ear cleanings and wax guard maintenance help prevent this.
3. Volume Set Too High
Excessive gain increases the chance that sound escapes your ear. If you constantly turn your volume up, your hearing aids may need reprogramming.
4. Mechanical Damage
Cracked tubing, loose receivers, or worn microphones allow sound leakage and create feedback loops. Routine maintenance prevents these issues.
5. Changes in Ear Anatomy
Aging, surgery, or natural anatomical changes can affect how your hearing aids fit. Updated molds or domes may be required.
Quick Fixes for Hearing Aid Whistling
- Reinsert your hearing aid: Make sure it sits fully and securely.
- Lower the volume: Reduce gain to limit sound leakage.
- Move away from reflective surfaces: Walls and glass can bounce sound back.
- Check for obstructions: Hair, hats, or scarves can redirect sound.
- Inspect for wax: Clean domes and wax guards regularly.
Long-Term Solutions That Actually Stop Feedback
Get a Professional Fitting
Real-ear measurements and proper programming dramatically reduce feedback and improve clarity.
Use the Right Dome or Custom Mold
Closed domes or custom earmolds reduce sound leakage and improve stability.
Recalibrate Feedback Management
Most modern hearing aids allow feedback recalibration to adapt to ear changes.
Upgrade to Newer Technology
Modern devices use AI-driven sound processing to cancel feedback in real time.
Explore current top-performing models here:
Best Hearing Aids in 2025 (Expert Guide)
When Feedback Means Something Bigger Is Wrong
If feedback continues even after cleaning and reinserting your hearing aids, it may signal:
- Programming mismatch
- Receiver or microphone failure
- Poor device selection for your hearing loss
You may also notice related issues like sound cutting in and out. If that’s happening, read:
Why Hearing Aids Cut In and Out
Cost vs Quality: Why Fit Matters More Than the Device
Many people assume feedback means their hearing aid is “cheap” or defective. In reality, feedback is usually caused by poor fit or programming — not the brand.
Understanding how hearing aids are priced and fitted can help you avoid these issues:
Hearing Aid Cost & Buyer’s Guide
How to Prevent Hearing Aid Feedback Long-Term
- Schedule cleanings every 6–12 months
- Replace domes and wax guards regularly
- Update programming as hearing changes
- Consider custom molds for persistent feedback
- Work with a provider who performs real-ear verification
Need Help Choosing Better-Fitting Hearing Aids?
Feedback problems often disappear when users switch to properly fitted, professionally programmed devices.
If you’re comparing providers, start with vetted options and transparent pricing networks like ZipHearing that connect patients with local audiologists.
Start here: Get matched with a provider who focuses on fit and programming first.
Final Thoughts
Hearing aid feedback is frustrating — but it’s usually fixable. In most cases, the solution is simple:
- Better fit
- Wax management
- Proper programming
- Routine maintenance
Once the root cause is addressed, hearing aids should sound natural, stable, and feedback-free.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hearing Aid Feedback
Why do my hearing aids suddenly start whistling?
Sudden feedback usually means something changed — earwax buildup, a loose dome, higher volume settings, or a shift in how your hearing aid fits. It can also happen if your hearing has changed and your device needs reprogramming.
Is hearing aid feedback normal?
Occasional feedback is common, especially when inserting hearing aids or hugging someone. However, frequent whistling is not normal and usually indicates a fit, wax, or programming issue.
How do I stop my hearing aids from whistling?
Start by reinserting the device securely, lowering the volume, and checking for earwax. If feedback continues, a professional fitting adjustment or recalibration is often needed.
Can earwax cause hearing aid feedback?
Yes. Earwax can reflect amplified sound back into the hearing aid microphone, creating a feedback loop. Regular cleanings and wax guard replacements help prevent this.
Do new hearing aids eliminate feedback?
Newer devices use advanced feedback suppression, but proper fit and programming are still the most important factors. Even the best hearing aids can whistle if they don’t fit correctly.
When should I see an audiologist about hearing aid feedback?
If feedback happens daily, starts suddenly, or affects sound quality, schedule a professional evaluation. It may indicate hearing changes, device wear, or programming issues.