Have you ever had your internet cut just 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 a never-ending spinning circle. And so you just wait. Perhaps it’s your modem, could 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 frustrating. The same is definitely true of your hearing aids. The majority of the time, your hearing aids will provide you with the means to remain connected to loved ones, have conversations with co-workers, and keep up with your neighbors.
But your symptoms of hearing loss can suddenly become extremely frustrating when your hearing aids stop working. You’ve been let down by the technology you depend on. Why would your hearing aids just stop functioning? So what should you do? Well, there are three common ways that hearing aids can malfunction, here’s how you can start to identify and troubleshoot those issues.
Three common issues with hearing aids (and some possible solutions)
Hearing aids are sophisticated devices. Even still, there are some common problems that individuals with hearing aids may experience. Here’s what might be causing those issues (and what you can do to fix them).
Feedback and whistling
Maybe you suddenly begin to hear a terrible high-pitched whistling while you’re trying to have a chat with a friend or relative. Or perhaps you notice a little 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 problems:
- You may not have your hearing aids seated properly in your ears. Try taking them out and putting them back in. If the fit isn’t correct you might need to come in so we can help you get a better fit.
- For people who wear behind-the-ear hearing aids, the tubing that connects your earmold with your hearing aid may have become compromised. Have a close look to see if the tube may have separated or may be damaged somehow.
- Earwax accumulation in your ear canal can compromise how your hearing aid works. This is a fairly common one. Whistling and feedback are often one result of this type 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 assistance from us.
Depending on the root cause of the feedback, we can help you deal with these issues if you can’t figure them out on your own.
Hearing aids not producing sound
The main purpose of hearing aids is to generate sound. That’s what they’re made to do! Something has certainly gone wrong if you can’t hear any sound coming from your hearing aid. So what could cause hearing aids to drop all sound? Well, there are a couple of things:
- Your settings: If you have them, cycle through your custom settings. It’s possible your hearing devices are not on the right custom setting (so perhaps your hearing aids think you’re in a concert hall instead of around the kitchen table). The sound you’re hearing might be off as a consequence.
- Earwax buildup: Here we go again with the earwax! Have a close look to see if you find any earwax on the microphone or speakers. Keep your device very clean.
- Batteries: If you have rechargeable batteries, make certain that they are completely charged. And whether your batteries are rechargeable or not, it might be worth switching them out for fresh ones.
- Power: Everyone forgets to turn their hearing aids on once in a while. Check for this first. Then you can cross that of the list of possible issues.
If these steps don’t address your problems, we may have the answers. We’ll be able to help you determine the next steps, and whether maintenance, repair, or replacement is required.
Painful ears while 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 start hurting? And you’re most likely wondering why your hearing aids would hurt your ears. You’re not as likely to use 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 some time. Each individual will have a different adjustment period. It’s worth talking about when you purchase your hearing aids so you have a reasonable idea of how long it may take you to get comfortable with your devices. Also, talk to us about any discomfort you may be having.
- Fit: The fit of the device is the most evident issue. Naturally, when the fit is nice and tight, your hearing aids will work best. Which means that there can sometimes be pain involved in a poor fit. Many hearing aids can be customized to your particular ears. The better the fit, the fewer issues you’ll have with pain over the long haul. If you come see us, we can help you get the best fit for your device.
Take your new hearing aid out for a test ride
Before you decide on a pair of hearing aids, it’s a good plan to test them for a while. In the majority of instances we’ll let you try out a set of devices before you decide that’s the set for you.
In fact, we can help you identify the best kind of hearing aid for your requirements, adjust the fit to match your ears, and help you manage any ongoing problems you might have with your devices. We will be your resource for any assistance you need.
And that’s probably more reliable than your internet company.