Have you ever had your internet cut right as you’re getting to the best part of your favorite Netflix movie? You sit and watch that spinning circle instead of learning about who won that cooking competition. And so you just wait. Perhaps it’s your modem, could be your router, possibly it’s the internet provider, or maybe it’ll just fix itself. It kind of stinks.
When technology breaks down, it can be very frustrating. Your hearing aids definitely fall into this category. When they’re working correctly, hearing aids can help you remain connected with the ones you love and better hear co-workers when they talk to you.
But your symptoms of hearing loss can suddenly become extremely frustrating when your hearing aids stop working. The technology you’re depending on has failed you. How do hearing aids just quit working? So how do you deal with that? Here are the three prevalent ways your hearing aids can fail and how to troubleshoot and identify them.
Three common issues with hearing aids (and some possible solutions)
Hearing aids are complex devices. Even still, there are some common issues that individuals with hearing aids may encounter. 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 an awful high-pitched whistling while you’re trying to have a conversation with a friend or relative. Or maybe you notice a little bit of feedback. And so you think, “Why am I hearing whistling in my hearing aids? This is odd”.
Feedback and whistling can be caused by these possible issues:
- You may not have your hearing aids correctly positioned in your ears. Try to take them out and re-seat them. 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 buildup in your ear canal can undermine the way your hearing aid functions. This is a fairly common one. Whistling and feedback are frequently one outcome of this kind of earwax accumulation. You can try to clean some of the earwax out (never use a cotton swab) and if that fails, you can get some assistance from us.
- For individuals who use behind-the-ear hearing aids, the tubing that attaches your earmold with your hearing aid may have become compromised. Take a close look to see if the tube might have detached or may be damaged somehow.
If these problems are not 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 might be).
No sound coming from your hearing aids
Your hearing aids should make, well, sound. That’s what they’re created to do! So if you find yourself thinking, “I don’t hear any sound coming from my hearing aid,” well, then something is definitely not right. So what could cause hearing aids to lose all sound? Well, there are a couple of things:
- 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. Keep your device really clean.
- Power: Everyone forgets to turn their hearing aids on once in a while. Be sure that isn’t the problem. This potential problem can then be eliminated..
- Your settings: If you have them, cycle through your custom settings. Your hearing aids might think you’re in a very large room when you’re actually in a little room because the setting isn’t right. The sound you’re hearing may be off as a consequence.
- Batteries: Be sure your batteries are fully charged. And even rechargeable batteries should be swapped out on occasion.
If these steps don’t help with your problems, we may have the solution. We’ll be able to help you find out the next steps, and whether maintenance, repair, or replacement is needed.
Painful ears when 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 likely wondering why your hearing aids would hurt your ears. You’re not as likely to wear your hearing aids on a daily basis if they hurt your ears. So, why do they hurt?
- Time: Sometimes, it just takes some time to get accustomed to your hearing aids. How long will depend on the individual. When you first get your new hearing aids, we can help you get a realistic concept of the adjustment period you can expect. Also, speak with us about any discomfort you may be experiencing.
- Fit: The fit of the device is the most evident problem. Naturally, when the fit is nice and snug, your hearing aids will work best. Which means that there can occasionally be discomfort involved in a poor fit. Some models of hearing aid can be fit to the specific shape of your ears. The better the fit, the fewer problems you’ll have with discomfort over the long run. If you come see us, we can help you get the best fit for your device.
Bypass issues with a little test drive
One of the best ways to avoid possible issues with hearing aids is to take them 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 needs, adjust the fit to match your ears, and help you handle any extended issues you may have with your devices. We will be your resource for any assistance you need.
And that’s a lot more than you will get from an over-the-counter hearing aid!