Have you ever been watching your favorite Netflix movie when your internet suddenly cuts out? Instead of finding out who won the baking show, you have to watch a never-ending spinning circle. And so you just wait. Is it your internet provider, modem, router, or maybe it will just come back on its own? It kind of stinks.
Technology can be enormously aggravating when it doesn’t work properly. The same is certainly true of your hearing aids. The majority of the time, your hearing aids will provide you with the means to stay connected to loved ones, have discussions with co-workers, and keep up with your neighbors.
But when they quit working, your hearing loss symptoms can abruptly become a lot more frustrating. You’ve been let down by the technology you count on. How do hearing aids just quit working? So how do you deal with that? Well, there are three prevalent ways that hearing aids can malfunction, here’s how you can start to recognize and troubleshoot those problems.
Three common issues with hearing aids (and some possible solutions)
Even though hearing aids are complex technology, individuals may experience three common issues with them. Let’s take a look at possible causes of these problems and potential fixes.
Whistling and feedback
Maybe you suddenly start to hear a terrible high-pitched whistling while you’re attempting to have a conversation with a friend or family member. Or maybe you detect a bit of feedback. You start to think, “this is weird, what’s up with this whistling”?
Whistling and feedback can be caused by these possible issues:
- For people who use behind-the-ear hearing aids, the tubing that attaches your earmold with your hearing aid may have become compromised. Try to examine this tubing as closely as possible and make sure nothing is loose and the tube does not appear damaged.
- Your hearing aids may not be sitting in your ears properly. Try taking them out and putting them back in. You can also try reducing the volume (if this works, you might find some temporary relief, but it also likely means that the fit is indeed not quite right and you should talk to us about it).
- Earwax accumulation in your ear canal can undermine how your hearing aid functions. This is a fairly common one. Whistling and feedback are often one result of this sort of earwax accumulation. You can attempt to clear some of the earwax out (never use a cotton swab) and if that doesn’t work out, you can get some help from us.
Depending on the underlying cause of the feedback, we can help you resolve these problems if you can’t fix them on your own.
No sound coming from your hearing aids
The main goal of hearing aids is to generate sound. That’s their principal function! So if you find yourself thinking, “I don’t hear any sound in my hearing aid,” well, then something is certainly wrong. So what could be the explanation when hearing aids work but no sound comes through? Here are several things to look for:
- Your settings: If you have them, flip through your custom settings. Your hearing aids may think you’re in a huge room when you’re actually in a small room because the setting is wrong. This incorrect setting could throw off the sound you’re hearing.
- Batteries: If you have rechargeable batteries, make certain that they’re completely charged. And even rechargeable batteries should be swapped out from time to time.
- Power: Look, we’ve all forgotten to turn on the hearing aid before. Check for this first. Then you can cross that of the list of possible problems.
- Earwax buildup: Here we go again with the earwax! Have a close look to see if you discover any earwax on the speakers or microphone. Keep your device very clean.
We are here for you if these steps don’t clear your issues up. We’ll be able to help you determine the next steps, and whether maintenance, repair, or replacement is needed.
Painful ears when you’re wearing your hearing aids
What if your hearing aids are working fine, but every time you put them in your ears, your ears begin aching? And you’re probably thinking: why do my ears ache when I use my hearing aids? This type of discomfort is not exactly conducive to using your hearing aids on a day-to-day basis. So, why do they ache?
- Fit: The most obvious issue can be the fit. Naturally, when the fit is nice and snug, your hearing aids will work best. Which means that there can sometimes be pain involved in a poor fit. Many hearing aids can be personalized to your specific ears. Over the long haul, you will have fewer problems if you have a good fit. If you come see us, we can help you get the best fit for your device.
- Time: Getting accustomed to your hearing aids will take a little while. How long will depend on the person. When you first get your new hearing aids, we can help you get a realistic concept of the adjustment period you can expect. Also, talk to us about any discomfort you might be having.
Take your new hearing aid out for a test ride
One of the best ways to avoid possible issues with hearing aids is to take them out for a bit of a test run before you decide. Most of the time we will have loaner pairs for you to try out before you make a decision.
As a matter of fact, we can help you ascertain the best type of hearing aid for your requirements, adjust the fit to match your ears, and help you take care of any extended issues you might have with your devices. We will be your resource for any help you need.
And that’s most likely more reliable than your internet company.