Have you ever had your internet disappear just as you’re getting to the best part of your favorite Netflix movie? You sit there and watch that spinning circle instead of finding out who won that cooking competition. And so you just wait. Is it your internet provider, modem, router, or perhaps it will just come back on its own? It’s not a very good feeling.
When technology breaks down, it can be very frustrating. The same is certainly true of your hearing aids. When they’re working properly, hearing aids can help you stay connected with the ones you love and better hear co-workers when they speak to you.
But your symptoms of hearing loss can suddenly become very frustrating when your hearing aids quit working. The technology you’re depending on has failed you. Why would your hearing aids just quit working? So what can you do? Well, there are three common ways that hearing aids can fail, here’s how you can start to identify and troubleshoot those issues.
Hearing aids can often have three common issues
Even though hearing aids are sophisticated technology, individuals might encounter three common issues with them. Let’s have a look at possible causes of these problems and potential fixes.
Whistling and feedback
So, maybe you’re attempting to have a chat with your family or watch your favorite show and you begin to notice a dreadful whistling sound. Or maybe you detect a little bit of feedback. You begin to think, “this is weird, what’s up with this whistling”?
Feedback and whistling can be caused by these possible problems:
- The tubing that connects the hearing aid with the earmold, on behind-the-ear models, can occasionally become compromised. Have a close look to see if the tube might have detached or might be damaged somehow.
- You may not have your hearing aids correctly positioned in your ears. Try to take them out and re-seat them. If the fit isn’t correct you may need to come in so we can help you get a better fit.
- The functionality of your hearing aid can be affected by earwax buildup in your ear canal. You’ll find this comes up fairly regularly. That includes making your hearing aid whistle or feedback. You can attempt to clear some of the earwax out (never use a cotton swab) and if that fails, you can get some assistance from us.
If these problems aren’t easily resolvable, it’s worth consulting 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 may be).
No sound coming from your hearing aids
Your hearing aids are supposed to make, well, sound. That’s their primary function! Something has undoubtedly gone wrong if you don’t hear any sound coming out of your hearing aid. So what could be the cause when hearing aids work but no sound comes out? Here are a few things to look for:
- Batteries: Make sure your batteries are completely charged. And even rechargeable batteries should be switched out once in a while.
- Power: Look, we’ve all forgotten to turn the hearing aids on before. Check for this first. Then you can cross that of the list of potential problems.
- 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 gymnasium instead of around the kitchen table). The sound you’re hearing might be off as a result.
- Earwax buildup: Here we go again with the earwax! Examine your device for signs of earwax on the microphone or speakers or any sensitive parts. You want to make sure the device is good and clean.
If these steps don’t correct your issues, we may have the solution. We’ll be able to help you find out the next steps, and whether maintenance, repair, or replacement is required.
Your ears hurt when 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 begin to hurt? And you’re most likely wondering why your hearing aids would hurt your ears. 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?
- Time: Usually, it just takes some time to get used to your hearing aids. How long it takes will depend on the individual. When you first get your new hearing aids, we can help you get a reasonable idea of the adjustment period you can expect. Also, talk to us about any discomfort you might be having.
- Fit: The fit of the device is the most evident issue. Needless to say, when the fit is nice and tight, your hearing aids will work best. So when your hearing aids aren’t fitting quite right, there can be some pain. Some hearing aid models can be fit to the distinct shape of your ears. The better the fit, the fewer problems you’ll have with pain over the long run. We will be able to help you achieve the best possible fit from your devices.
Avoid problems with a little test drive
One of the best ways to prevent possible problems with hearing aids is to take them out for a bit of a test drive before you commit. Most of the time we will have loaner pairs for you to try out before you make a decision.
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 handle any extended problems you might have with your devices. We will be your resource for any assistance you need.
And that’s most likely more dependable than your internet company.