Have you ever had your internet cut right as you’re getting to the best part of your favorite Netflix show? Instead of discovering who won the baking show, you have to watch an endless spinning circle. All you can do is wait around for it to come back. Maybe it’s your modem, might be your router, possibly it’s the internet provider, or maybe it’ll just fix itself. It sort of stinks.
When technology malfunctions, it can be very frustrating. The same is definitely true of your hearing aids. The majority of the time, your hearing aids will give you the means to remain connected to loved ones, have discussions with co-workers, and keep up with your neighbors.
But your symptoms of hearing loss can suddenly become very frustrating when your hearing aids quit working. You’ve been disappointed by the technology you count on. How do hearing aids just quit working? So what can you do? Well, there are three prevalent ways that hearing aids can fail, here’s how you can begin to identify and troubleshoot those problems.
Three common issues with hearing aids (and some possible solutions)
Hearing aids are sophisticated devices. Even still, there are some common issues that people with hearing aids may experience. Here’s what could be causing those issues (and what you can do to correct them).
Whistling and feedback
Perhaps you suddenly begin to hear an awful high-pitched whistling while you’re trying to have a chat with a friend or relative. Or maybe you notice a bit of feedback. You begin to think, “this is strange, what’s up with this whistling”?
Whistling and feedback can be caused by these possible problems:
- Earwax accumulation in your ear canal can compromise how your hearing aid functions. You’ll notice this comes up fairly often. That includes making your hearing aid whistle or feedback. If possible, you can try clearing some earwax out of your ear or consult with us about the best way to do that (do not use a cotton swab).
- You may not have your hearing aids correctly positioned in your ears. Try to remove them and re-seat them. If the fit isn’t correct you might need to come see us so we can help you get a better fit.
- For those who wear behind-the-ear hearing aids, the tubing that attaches your earmold with your hearing aid might have become compromised. Try to inspect this tubing as closely as you can and make sure nothing is loose and the tube doesn’t appear damaged.
If these problems aren’t easily resolvable, it’s worth talking to us about adjusting the fit or sending your device in for servicing (depending on what we determine the root cause of that whistling or feedback may be).
Hearing aids not generating sound
Your hearing aids should make, well, sound. That’s their main function! Something has definitely gone wrong if you don’t hear any sound coming from your hearing aid. So what could be the cause 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 personalized settings. It’s feasible your hearing devices are not on the right custom program (so perhaps your hearing aids think you’re in a gymnasium instead of around the kitchen table). The sound you’re hearing may be off as a consequence.
- Earwax buildup: Here we go again with the earwax! Inspect your device for indications of earwax on the microphone or speakers or any sensitive parts. You want to be sure the device is good and clean.
- Power: Look, we’ve all forgotten to turn on the hearing aid before. Check for this first. This possible issue can then be eliminated..
- Batteries: If you have rechargeable batteries, be sure that they’re completely charged. And even rechargeable batteries should be switched out once in a while.
If these steps don’t help with your problems, we may have the answers. Whether repair, maintenance, or replacement is your next step, we will be capable of helping you figure that out.
Painful ears while you’re wearing your hearing aids
Perhaps your hearing aids are fine functionally but they hurt when they’re in your ears. And you’re most likely thinking: why do my ears hurt when I use my hearing aids? This sort of discomfort isn’t exactly conducive to using your hearing aids on a day-to-day basis. So, why do they hurt?
- Fit: The fit of the device is the most obvious issue. After all, the majority of hearing aids work best when they fit tightly. Which means that there can sometimes be discomfort involved in a poor fit. Many hearing aids can be tailored to your specific ears. Over the long run, you will have fewer issues if you have a tight fit. We will be able to help you achieve the best possible fit from your devices.
- Time: Getting used to your hearing aids will take some time. How long it takes will depend on the person. It’s worth talking about when you buy your hearing aids so you have a realistic concept of how long it might take you to become comfortable with your devices. Also, talk to us about any discomfort you may be having.
Take your new hearing aid out for a test ride
Before you decide on a set of hearing aids, it’s a smart plan to test them for a while. In most cases we’ll let you test out a set of devices before you determine that’s the pair for you.
Choosing the correct hearing aids, adjusting them to fit your requirements, and helping with any extended problems you may have, are all things we will assist with. In other words, when your devices quit working, you’ll have a resource that can help!
And that’s a lot more than you will get with an over-the-counter hearing aid!
