Hearing aids are small but technologically advanced devices with a microphone that receives sound, an amplifier that raises its volume and a speaker which transmits the sound directly into the ear canal. They can help improve communication with your loved ones, manage tinnitus symptoms and keep you more aware of your surroundings.
If you’ve decided to start using these devices to treat your hearing loss, you’ll receive a lot of new information during your first weeks. One thing to watch out for when choosing your new device is the way it interacts with cell phones.
Some hearing aids emit a buzzing noise when used with a cell phone. The buzzing sound can get in the way of a fun conversation with a loved one while you walk around Forest Park or affect your ability to clearly hear the information from the other end of the call. Let’s examine why that buzzing noise occurs and what you can do about it.
What Causes the Buzzing Noise?
The buzzing noise in your hearing aids comes from interference with your phone’s radiofrequency emissions (RF). Although RF interference isn’t as common as it used to be, it is good practice to check your hearing aid and cell phone to ensure they are compatible before purchasing.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) requires cell phone manufacturers to test hearing aid compatibility before release. Based on the compatibility test results, cell phones will receive a rating. The higher the rating, the less likely there will be RF interference from your hearing aids.
How to Choose the Right Cell Phone for Your Hearing Aids
You should always check the compatibility ratings on your cell phone before purchasing. There are two ratings you need to take into account based on your hearing aid type:
- For hearing aids set in microphone mode, look for a rating of M3 or M4.
- For hearing aids or cochlear implants with a T coil, look for a rating of T3 or T4.
An M4 or T4 rating can be achieved with a combination of several different ratings. For instance, if your hearing aid is rated an M2 and your cell phone is an M2, they will have a combined rating of M4.
You can check these ratings during phone purchases or hearing aid fitting appointments. Choosing the right devices will help you have buzz-free conversations with your friends and family.
Contact Center for Hearing & Speech today to make an appointment with one of our hearing specialists.
