Have you ever had your internet disappear just as you’re almost to the best part of your favorite Netflix movie? You sit and watch that spinning circle instead of finding out who won that cooking competition. And so you just wait. Perhaps it’s your modem, might be your router, possibly it’s the internet company, or possibly it’ll just fix itself. It kind of stinks.
When technology malfunctions, it can be very aggravating. The same is definitely true of your hearing aids. Most of the time, your hearing aids will give you the means to remain connected to loved ones, have conversations with co-workers, and keep up with your neighbors.
But when they quit working, your hearing loss symptoms can suddenly become a lot more frustrating. You’ve been disappointed by the technology you count on. Why would your hearing aids just stop working? So how do you deal with that? Well, there are three common ways that hearing aids can fail, here’s how you can begin to recognize and troubleshoot those problems.
Hearing aids can often have three common issues
Hearing aids are complex devices. Even still, there are some common issues that people with hearing aids might encounter. Here’s what could be causing those issues (and what you can do to fix them).
Feedback and whistling
Maybe you suddenly start to hear an awful high-pitched whistling while you’re attempting to have a chat with a friend or relative. Or perhaps you notice a bit of feedback. You start to think, “this is weird, what’s up with this whistling”?
Here are three possible problems that could be causing this feedback and whistling:
- For people who use behind-the-ear hearing aids, the tubing that connects your earmold with your hearing aid might have become compromised. Take a close look to see if the tube may have separated or may be damaged somehow.
- You may not have your hearing aids seated properly in your ears. Try taking them out and putting them back in. You can also try turning the volume down (if this works, you might find some short-term relief, but it also likely means that the fit is indeed not quite right and you should consult us about it).
- The functionality of your hearing aid can be impacted by earwax accumulation in your ear canal. This is a fairly common one. That includes causing your hearing aids to whistle or feedback. You can attempt to clean 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 deal with these problems if you can’t figure them out on your own.
Hearing aids not generating sound
The main goal of hearing aids is to produce sound. That’s their principal function! So if you find yourself thinking, “I don’t hear any sound coming from my hearing aid,” well, then something is definitely wrong. So what could be the explanation when hearing aids work but no sound comes through? Here are a few things to look for:
- Your settings: Cycle through the custom settings if your device includes them. It’s feasible your hearing devices are not on the right custom program (so perhaps your hearing aids think you’re in a concert hall instead of around the kitchen table). The sound you’re hearing may be off as a consequence.
- Earwax buildup: Yup, earwax strikes again. Inspect your device for indications of earwax on the microphone or speakers or any sensitive parts. You want to make certain the device is good and clean.
- Power: Look, we’ve all disregarded turning on the hearing aid before. Be sure that isn’t the problem. This possible issue can then be eliminated..
- Batteries: If you have rechargeable batteries, make certain that they are completely charged. And even rechargeable batteries should be switched out from time to time.
If these steps don’t address your problems, we might have the answers. We’ll be able to help you identify the next steps, and whether maintenance, repair, or replacement is needed.
Painful ears while you’re wearing your hearing aids
Maybe your hearing aids are fine functionally but they hurt when they’re in your ears. And you’re probably thinking: why do my ears ache when I wear my hearing aids? You’re not as likely to wear your hearing aids every day if they hurt your ears. So, what could be causing it?
- Time: Getting used to your hearing aids will take a little while. How long it takes will depend on the individual. It’s worth talking about when you buy your hearing aids so you have a reasonable concept of how long it may take you to get comfortable with your devices. If uncomfortable ears continue, speak with us about that too!
- Fit: The fit of the device is the most obvious issue. After all, most hearing aids work best when they fit tightly. So when your hearing aids aren’t fitting quite right, there can be some pain. Some models of hearing aid can be fit to the specific shape of your ears. The better the fit, the fewer issues you’ll have with pain over the long haul. We will be able to help you get the best possible fit from your devices.
Take your new hearing aid out for a test ride
Before you commit to a pair of hearing aids, it’s a good plan to try them out for a while. Most of the time we will have loaner pairs for you to try out before you make a decision.
Choosing the right hearing aids, adjusting them to fit your needs, and helping with any ongoing problems you might have, are all things we will assist with. We will be your resource for any help you need.
And that’s most likely more dependable than your internet company.
