Have you ever been watching your favorite Netflix show when your internet abruptly cuts out? You sit there and watch that spinning circle instead of learning about 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 simply come back on its own? It’s not a great feeling.
Technology can be tremendously aggravating when it doesn’t work correctly. The same is certainly true of your hearing aids. When they’re functioning properly, hearing aids can help you remain connected with the ones you love and better hear co-workers when they speak to you.
But when they stop working, your hearing loss symptoms can abruptly become much more frustrating. The technology you’re depending on has let you down. Why would your hearing aids just quit functioning? So what can you do? Well, there are three prevalent ways that hearing aids can fail, here’s how you can begin to recognize and troubleshoot those issues.
Hearing aids can often have three common issues
Even though hearing aids are sophisticated technology, individuals might encounter three common problems with them. Here’s what could be causing those issues (and what you can do to correct them).
Whistling and feedback
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 detect a little bit of feedback. And so you think, “Why am I hearing whistling in my hearing aids? This is odd”.
Here are three potential issues that could be causing this whistling and feedback:
- The functionality of your hearing aid can be impacted by earwax buildup in your ear canal. This is a fairly common one. 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 doesn’t work out, you can get some assistance from us.
- For those who wear behind-the-ear hearing aids, the tubing that attaches your earmold with your hearing aid may have become compromised. Take a close look to identify whether the tube might have detached or may be damaged in some way.
- You might 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 short-term relief, but it also likely means that the fit is indeed not quite right and you should consult us about it).
Depending on the underlying cause of the feedback, we can help you resolve these issues if you can’t fix them on your own.
No sound coming from your hearing aids
The main purpose of hearing aids is to produce sound. That’s what they’re created to do! So if you find yourself thinking, “I can’t hear any sound in my hearing aid,” well, then something is definitely wrong. So what could be the cause when hearing aids work but no sound comes through? Well, there are a couple of things:
- Power: Look, we’ve all disregarded turning the hearing aids on before. Make certain that’s not the issue. This possible issue can then be eliminated..
- Batteries: If you have rechargeable batteries, be sure that they’re fully charged. And even rechargeable batteries should be switched out from time to time.
- Your settings: Scroll through the personalized settings if your device has them. Your hearing aids may think you’re in a huge space when you’re actually in a small room because the setting is wrong. This incorrect setting could throw off the sound you’re hearing.
- Earwax buildup: Yup, earwax strikes again. Have a close look to see if you find any earwax on the microphone or speakers. You want to make sure the device is good and clean.
If these steps don’t correct your problems, we might have the solution. We’ll be able to help you identify the next steps, and whether maintenance, repair, or replacement is needed.
Painful ears while you’re wearing your hearing aids
What if your hearing aids are working fine, but whenever you put them in your ears, your ears start hurting? And you’re likely wondering why your hearing aids would hurt your ears. You’re not as likely to wear your hearing aids every day if they make your ears hurt. So, what could be causing it?
- Time: Usually, it just takes a little while to get used to your hearing aids. Each individual will have a different adjustment period. It’s worth talking about when you purchase your hearing aids so you have a realistic idea of how long it might take you to become comfortable with your devices. Also, talk to us about any discomfort you may be having.
- Fit: The most obvious issue can be the fit. Naturally, when the fit is nice and tight, your hearing aids will work best. Which means that there can sometimes be discomfort involved in a poor fit. Many hearing aids can be tailored to your particular ears. Over the long run, you will have fewer problems if you have a good fit. If you come in for a consultation, we can help you get the best fit for your device.
Take your new hearing aid out for a test ride
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.
Choosing the right hearing aids, adjusting them to fit your needs, and helping with any ongoing issues you may have, are all things we will assist with. We will be your resource for any help you need.
And that’s probably more dependable than your internet company.