Have you ever had your internet cut just as you’re almost to the best part of your favorite Netflix show? You sit there and watch that spinning circle instead of finding out who won that cooking competition. All you can do is wait around for it to come back. Is it your internet provider, modem, router, or maybe it will just come back on its own? It kind of stinks.
Technology can be tremendously aggravating when it doesn’t work properly. The same is definitely true of your hearing aids. When they’re functioning 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 quit working. You’ve been disappointed by the technology you depend on. Why would your hearing aids just stop functioning? So what should you do? Here are the three prevalent ways your hearing aids can malfunction and how to diagnose and identify them.
Three common issues with hearing aids (and some possible solutions)
Even though hearing aids are sophisticated technology, people may encounter three common problems with them. Let’s have a look at possible causes of these problems and potential fixes.
Feedback and whistling
So, perhaps you’re trying to have a conversation with your family or watch your favorite show and you begin to notice a horrific whistling sound. Or maybe you detect 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 whistling and feedback:
- Your hearing aids might 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 short-term relief, but it also likely means that the fit isn’t quite right and you should consult us about it).
- The tubing that attaches the hearing aid with the earmold, on behind-the-ear models, can occasionally become compromised. Have a close look to identify whether the tube may have detached or might be compromised somehow.
- The functionality of your hearing aid can be impacted by earwax buildup in your ear canal. You’ll notice this comes up pretty regularly. Whistling and feedback are frequently one outcome of this kind of earwax buildup. You can try 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.
If these issues are not easily resolved, it’s worth speaking with us about correcting the fit or sending your device in for maintenance (depending on what we think the root cause of that whistling or feedback might be).
No sound coming from your hearing aids
The main objective of hearing aids is to generate sound. That’s what they’re made to do! Something has undoubtedly gone wrong if you can’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 some things to watch for:
- Earwax buildup: Here we go again with the earwax! Take a close look to see if you discover any earwax on the speakers or microphone. Keep your device really clean.
- Power: Look, we’ve all forgotten to turn the hearing aids on before. Make sure that isn’t the problem. Then you can eliminate that as potential issues.
- Batteries: If you have rechargeable batteries, make certain that they are fully charged. And even rechargeable batteries should be swapped out on occasion.
- Your settings: Cycle through the custom settings if your device includes them. It’s possible your hearing devices are on the wrong custom setting (so perhaps your hearing aids think you’re in a concert hall instead of at the kitchen table). This incorrect setting could throw off the sound you’re hearing.
We’re here for you if these measures don’t clear your issues up. Whether repair, maintenance, or replacement is your next step, we will be able to help you figure that out.
Your ears hurt while you’re wearing your hearing aids
What if your hearing aids work perfectly, but whenever you put them in your ears, your ears start hurting? And you’re most likely thinking: why do my ears ache when I use my hearing aids? You’re not as likely to use your hearing aids on a daily basis if they hurt your ears. So, what could be causing it?
- Fit: The fit of the device is the most obvious issue. After all, the majority of hearing aids work best when the fit is nice and snug. So when your hearing aids aren’t fitting quite right, there can be some discomfort. Many hearing aids can be tailored to your specific ears. The better the fit, the fewer problems you’ll have with discomfort over the long haul. If you come in for a consultation, we can help you get the best fit for your device.
- Time: Usually, it just takes some time to get accustomed to your hearing aids. Each individual will have a different adjustment period. It’s worth talking about when you buy your hearing aids so you have a reasonable idea of how long it may take you to get comfortable with your devices. If uncomfortable ears continue, speak with us about that too!
Take your new hearing aid out for a test ride
Before you decide on a pair of hearing aids, it’s a smart idea to test them for a while. In most instances we’ll let you test out a pair of devices before you determine that’s the set for you.
Choosing the correct hearing aids, adjusting them to fit your requirements, and helping with any ongoing problems you might have, are all things we will assist with. We will be your resource for any assistance you need.
And that’s a lot more than you will get with an over-the-counter hearing aid!
