Entrainment is an undesired effect of some anti-feedback circuitry in which the feedback reduction algorithm attempts to eliminate an incoming sound as if the sound is feedback when it truly is not. This can lead to a whistling or squealing sound, which is known as feedback.
What is entrainment in a hearing aid?
Entrainment in a hearing aid is a problem that can occur when the hearing aid’s feedback reduction system is not working properly. The feedback reduction system is designed to prevent feedback, which is a whistling or squealing sound that can occur when sound waves from the hearing aid’s speaker are picked up by the hearing aid’s microphone and amplified.
What causes conductive hearing loss?
Conductive hearing loss is caused by a problem in the outer or middle ear. The outer ear collects sound waves and directs them to the middle ear. The middle ear then amplifies the sound waves and sends them to the inner ear.
Some of the most common causes of conductive hearing loss include:
- Otitis media: This is an infection of the middle ear.
- Earwax buildup: Earwax can build up in the ear canal and block sound waves from reaching the middle ear.
- Foreign objects in the ear: Foreign objects, such as beans or beads, can block sound waves from reaching the middle ear.
- Trauma to the ear: Trauma to the ear, such as a blow to the head or a perforated eardrum, can cause conductive hearing loss.
What is entrainment process?
The entrainment process is a way of controlling feedback in hearing aids. The feedback reduction system in a hearing aid uses the entrainment process to identify the frequency of the feedback and then adjust the hearing aid’s output to prevent the feedback from occurring.
What are the 3 main types of hearing loss?
There are three main types of hearing loss:
- Conductive hearing loss: This type of hearing loss is caused by a problem in the outer or middle ear.
- Sensorineural hearing loss: This type of hearing loss is caused by a problem in the inner ear or the auditory nerve.
- Mixed hearing loss: This type of hearing loss is a combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss.
Conclusion
Entrainment is an undesired effect of some anti-feedback circuitry in which the feedback reduction algorithm attempts to eliminate an incoming sound as if the sound is feedback when it truly is not. This can lead to a whistling or squealing sound, which is known as feedback.
If you are experiencing feedback with your hearing aid, you should talk to your audiologist. They can help you troubleshoot the problem and find a solution.