What type of feedback occurs due to the leakage of sound from the ear canal?

The concept of feedback in the context of hearing aids is important for understanding how sound interacts with the environment. External feedback specifically refers to sound that leaks out of the ear canal and then re-enters the microphone of the hearing aid. This leakage is typically caused by the hearing aid's sound output—when sound escapes, it can create a loop where the device picks up its own amplified sound, potentially leading to undesirable effects such as whistling or echoing.

External feedback differs from internal feedback, which occurs when sound systems interact specifically within the hearing aid itself, without involvement from outside sound sources. Distortion feedback refers to unintended changes in sound quality, while audiometric feedback generally relates to responses captured during hearing assessments, not the real-time functioning of amplification devices.

Recognizing this distinction is crucial for both hearing aid dispensers and users, as it allows for appropriate management of device settings to minimize feedback issues. Understanding how feedback works in this way can greatly enhance the performance of hearing aids and improve user satisfaction.