It is of the utmost importance that hearing aids be fit in clear ear canals so that any wax present does not get pushed in further. Remove any excess wax that may have accumulated in the ear canal. A professional ear cleaning may be necessary.
- If you hear normal conversational speech at a comfortable volume but can’t understand all of the sounds (s,f, sh,th) choose an open dome (high-frequency hearing loss).
- If you need an increase in volume all the time for all sounds (vowels and consonants) choose a closed dome (flat, sloping, or rising loss). A double dome will also form a greater ear canal seal.
- Choose a medium dome size and insert it onto the thin tube. It may be easier if you turn the dome inside out.
- Place the device behind your ear with the tube facing forward.
- Place the dome into your ear canal.
- Put the stabilizer into the bowl of your ear.
- Push the dome into your ear canal. If it doesn’t slide in, it is probably too big. Try a smaller one
- Once the dome is pushed into your ear canal gently shake your head up and down, then side to side while chewing. If the dome slides out, it is too small.
- If you hear a high-pitched sound when you put the device in the ear canal, you’re experiencing feedback. Your ear canal is not optimally sealed. Experiment with a closed, larger dome or double dome.
- If you are in-between sizes, make a tiny slit with a small scissor in the larger dome.
- If you feel extremely occluded and plugged up in a closed dome, but get feedback or not enough sound with an open dome, a tiny hole can be cut in a closed dome.
- The stabilizer will conform to the shape of your ear after a day or so of use. If it pokes into your skin, it can be trimmed slightly to be more comfortable.
- For a few individuals who have very curvy ear canals, the stabilizer can be cut off.
- Keep in mind that the farther the dome is inserted into the ear, the louder the sound.
