My uncle has behind-the-ear hearing aids and his ear mold has turned white. What is the cause of that?

It sounds like your uncle has a silicone ear mold. Silicone can change color over time. Typically, the visible portion in the outer ear will turn white after a few years. The inner portion (which others won't see because it is down in the canal) may turn yellow or orange from ear wax.

Just because a mold has changed color does not mean there is something wrong with it. Ear molds need to be replaced when they start deteriorating, or when feedback is present. Ear molds that change color do so gradually and so slowly that the person wearing them doesn't even notice. Other people do notice, so if you care how you look, you may want to replace them when they turn white.

When they turn white, they become very noticeable. It looks like you have a wad of cotton in your ear, and people may think you have an ear infection. This is because people who are sensitive to wind and cold, or those taking ear drops, may put a ball of cotton in their ear to keep the air out or the medicine in. Some people have sensitive ears and it can be difficult to get a mold to fit comfortably, so when one finally fits well, they don't want to change it and get a new one.

Usually hearing impaired people with silicone full shell ear molds need that type and style because of the severity of their hearing loss. We are trying to make a good seal between the mold and the ear to keep the sound in. Silicone is usually the best material for fighting feedback. People with severe hearing loss wear their hearing aids every day, all day long because they cannot hear without them and they are necessary. This makes the fit of the ear mold critical. It has to fit because if it doesn't, it can cause tenderness or a sore.

A sore ear is a miserable ear. Do not wear a mold that hurts your ear. Have it buffed down or remade to fit properly. For molds, there is a fine line between snug and uncomfortable. I compare this feeling to a new pair of shoes. It doesn't matter how fine those new shoes look; if they hurt your feet, you will not wear them as often as you thought you would.

There are specialty ear mold materials available that may not change color quite as rapidly. These are more expensive, but may be worth it to you if you want the most discreet mold available. One style of material is invisaear, which has visible capillaries to make it look more like your own skin. Invisaear comes in many different skin tones and even has matching tubing.

Children and some adults like bright colors. We have many colors, including neon and glitter, to choose from. We can even swirl a few together to make your own unique mold or one that can really stand out.

Dr. Tia Flynn is a certified audiologist and has been in business for more than 13 years. Every Tuesday morning from 9 a.m. to noon, Dr. Flynn provides free hearing screenings at 1601 Third St. in Coeur d'Alene. (208) 664-2767. Visit www.affordablehearinginc.com for a free copy of the consumers guide to hearing aids and watch helpful videos.