{"id":6217,"date":"2024-09-07T00:32:03","date_gmt":"2024-09-07T00:32:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sfaudiology.com\/?p=6217"},"modified":"2024-09-07T00:32:39","modified_gmt":"2024-09-07T00:32:39","slug":"why-do-my-hearing-aids-make-my-ears-feel-plugged-up","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sfaudiology.com\/why-do-my-hearing-aids-make-my-ears-feel-plugged-up\/","title":{"rendered":"Why Do My Hearing Aids Make My Ears Feel Plugged Up?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Approximately 28.8 million U.S. adults could benefit from hearing aids<\/a>. These tiny devices collect and amplify speech and surrounding sounds to bring the wearer clear communication and background awareness<\/a>. Whether you\u2019ve been wearing hearing aids for years or just got your first pair, you may have noticed that your devices can bring on a \u201cplugged up\u201d feeling, also described as a fullness or blockage in the ears.<\/p>\n

That plugged-up sensation, known as the occlusion effect, can be frustrating, but understanding its causes and how to prevent it can lead to much-needed relief. Let’s explore some common reasons for this feeling and what steps you can take to avoid it.<\/p>\n

Why Does the Occlusion Effect Occur?<\/h2>\n

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The occlusion effect happens when sounds you produce, like talking, chewing or swallowing, seem amplified or hollow when wearing hearing aids or in-ear headphones. This arises when the ear canals are completely blocked or sealed.<\/p>\n

When you chew your favorite Sotto Mare meal, sound vibrations naturally escape through your open ear canal. But when hearing aids block the ear canal, these sounds bounce back, making them seem louder.<\/p>\n

How Can You Prevent the Occlusion Effect?<\/h2>\n

A few ways you can help prevent the occlusion effect include:<\/p>\n