How To Reduce Ear Pressure Caused By Hearing Aids
If hearing loss has made it difficult for you to socialize, then a hearing aid can definitely assist you. An aid can be chosen with your specific needs in mind, and an audiologist will take a mold of your ear to make sure the aid fits correctly. Once your aid is fitted, you may experience some issues that can lead to discomfort. Pressure in the ear is one such problem, but you do not have to live with it. Keep reading to learn about how hearing aid pressure can be reduced.
Make Sure Vents Are Open
If you have a hearing aid that fits in your ear canal, then the aid will likely have several vents that allow small amounts of air to move through the aid. This helps to reduce moisture buildup in the canal and it also allows for pressure regulation. However, if you have a severe hearing issue, then the vents may be closed off to prevent feedback. While feedback is an annoying issue, if ear pressure is not regulated, then fluid may not be able to drain down the eustachian tubes.
Vents are typically plugged with the assistance of small plastic caps or tiny pieces of plastic that are inserted into the openings. You can simply remove the plugs or ask your audiologist to do so. If a larger cap is inserted into a vent, then you can ask your hearing professional to insert one that partially plugs the opening. Since caps some in many sizes to fit the different hearing aid models, this is typically an option.
I there are no plugs or caps on your hearing aid, then the vents may simply be clogged with ear wax. You can clear out the wax with a hearing aid cleaner. These thin, pointed, plastic tools are made specifically for this purpose. Simply insert the tool into the vent and remove it to release the wax.
Investigate The Mold
Hearing aids are made with the assistance of a mold and this ensures the fit of the device. Hearing aids are meant to fit tightly in the ear canal, but they should not place so much pressure on the outer canal that the tissues swell. This swelling can close the canal and place pressure on the internal parts of the ear.
If you have just received your hearing aid, then you can wait to see if the tissues of the ear canal stretch out. This will often happen within the weeks following your initial fitting. However, if pain and pressure continue, then speak with your audiologist. The aid may need to be remolded so it is a bit smaller. This is common with older individuals who no longer have as much tissue elastin that allows for stretching. Contact a clinic, like Waters ENT Sinus & Allergy, for more help.