Have you ever been watching your favorite Netflix movie when your internet suddenly disappears? Instead of finding out who won the baking show, you have to watch an endless spinning circle. And so you just wait. Maybe it’s your modem, might be your router, possibly it’s the internet provider, or maybe it’ll just fix itself. It’s not a very good feeling.
When technology breaks down, it can be really aggravating. The same is certainly true of your hearing aids. Most of the time, your hearing aids will give you the means to stay connected to loved ones, have discussions with co-workers, and keep up with your neighbors.
But your symptoms of hearing loss can suddenly become very frustrating when your hearing aids stop working. The technology you’re counting on has failed you. Why would your hearing aids just stop functioning? So how do you cope with that? Well, there are three common ways that hearing aids can malfunction, here’s how you can begin to recognize and troubleshoot those issues.
Hearing aids can often have three common issues
Hearing aids are sophisticated devices. Even still, there are some common problems that individuals with hearing aids might encounter. Let’s have a look at possible causes of these issues and potential fixes.
Feedback and whistling
Perhaps you suddenly begin to hear a terrible high-pitched whistling while you’re trying to have a conversation with a friend or relative. Or perhaps you hear some feedback. You start to think, “this is strange, what’s up with this whistling”?
Feedback and whistling can be caused by these possible issues:
- Your hearing aids might not be seated in your ears properly. Try to remove them and re-seat them. If the fit isn’t correct you might need to come see us so we can help you get a better fit.
- For individuals who use behind-the-ear hearing aids, the tubing that connects your earmold with your hearing aid might have become compromised. Try to inspect this tubing as closely as possible and make sure nothing is loose and the tube doesn’t appear damaged.
- Earwax buildup in your ear canal can undermine how your hearing aid functions. This is a rather common one. Whistling and feedback are frequently one result of this type of earwax buildup. If possible, you can attempt to clean some earwax out of your ear or talk to us about the best method to do that (do not use a cotton swab).
If these issues aren’t easily resolved, it’s worth speaking with us about adjusting the fit or sending your device in for servicing (depending on what we think the underlying cause of that whistling or feedback might be).
Hearing aids not producing sound
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 don’t hear any sound coming from my hearing aid,” well, then something is certainly not right. So what could be the cause when hearing aids work but no sound comes out? Well, there are a few things:
- Batteries: Be sure your batteries are completely charged. And even rechargeable batteries should be switched out on occasion.
- Power: Everybody forgets to turn their hearing aids on once in a while. Make sure that isn’t the issue. This possible problem can then be eliminated..
- 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.
- Your settings: Scroll through the custom settings if your device includes them. Your hearing aids might think you’re in a huge space when you’re actually in a little room because the setting isn’t right. The sound you’re hearing could be off as a result.
We’re here for you if these measures don’t clear up your issues. We’ll be able to help you find out the next steps, and whether maintenance, repair, or replacement is needed.
Your ears hurt 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 thinking: why do my ears hurt when I wear my hearing aids? This type of discomfort isn’t exactly conducive to wearing your hearing aids over the long term. So, why do they ache?
- Fit: The fit of the device is the most obvious problem. 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 tailored to your specific ears. Over the long run, you will have fewer problems if you have a tight fit. We will be able to help you get the best possible fit from your devices.
- Time: Getting accustomed to your hearing aids will take some time. How long it takes will depend on the individual. When you first get your hearing aids, we can help you get a reasonable idea of the adjustment period you can expect. Also, speak with us about any discomfort you may be experiencing.
Avoid issues with a little test drive
One of the best ways to avoid possible issues with hearing aids is to take them out for a bit of a test run before you commit. Most of the time we will have loaner pairs for you to try out before you make a decision.
Selecting the right hearing aids, adjusting them to fit your requirements, and helping with any extended 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 from an over-the-counter hearing aid!