Have you ever had your internet disappear right as you’re almost to the best part of your favorite Netflix show? 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, could be your router, possibly it’s the internet company, or maybe it’ll just fix itself. It’s not a very good feeling.
When technology breaks down, it can be very aggravating. Your hearing aids definitely fall into this category. When they’re functioning properly, hearing aids can help you stay connected with the ones you love and better hear co-workers when they talk to you.
But when they stop working, your hearing loss symptoms can abruptly become a lot more frustrating. You’ve been disappointed by the technology you depend on. How do hearing aids just stop working? So how do you cope with that? Here are the three prevalent ways your hearing aids can malfunction and how to troubleshoot and identify them.
Three common issues with hearing aids (and some possible solutions)
Even though hearing aids are complex technology, people may experience three common problems with them. Let’s take a look at possible causes of these problems and potential fixes.
Feedback and whistling
So, perhaps you’re attempting to have a conversation with your family or watch your favorite show and you start to notice a horrific whistling sound. Or perhaps you hear some feedback. You start to think, “this is strange, what’s up with this whistling”?
Here are three potential issues that could be causing this feedback and whistling:
- Earwax accumulation in your ear canal can compromise how your hearing aid functions. You’ll notice this comes up fairly regularly. Whistling and feedback are frequently one result of this kind of earwax accumulation. You can attempt to clean some of the earwax out (never use a cotton swab) and if that doesn’t work out, you can get some assistance from us.
- 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 right you may need to come see us so we can help you get a better fit.
- 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 might have detached or might be damaged in some way.
If these issues aren’t easily resolved, it’s worth talking to us about adjusting the fit or sending your device in for servicing (depending on what we determine the underlying cause of that whistling or feedback might be).
No sound coming from your hearing aids
Your hearing aids should make, well, sound. That’s their principal function! 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 explanation when hearing aids work but no sound comes out? Well, there are a few things:
- Your settings: If you have them, flip through your personalized settings. Your hearing aids might think you’re in a very large room when you’re actually in a small room because the setting isn’t right. This incorrect setting could throw off the sound you’re hearing.
- Earwax buildup: Yup, earwax strikes again. Inspect your device for signs of earwax on the microphone or speakers or any sensitive bits. Keep your device really clean.
- Batteries: Make sure your batteries are completely charged. And even rechargeable batteries should be switched out from time to time.
- Power: Everyone forgets to turn their hearing aids on once in a while. Check for this first. Then you can cross that of the list of potential problems.
We are here for you if these steps don’t clear up your issues. We’ll be able to help you determine the next steps, and whether maintenance, repair, or replacement is required.
Your ears hurt when you’re wearing your hearing aids
Perhaps your hearing aids are fine functionally but they hurt when you put them in. And you’re most likely thinking: why do my ears hurt when I wear my hearing aids? You’re not as likely to wear your hearing aids every day if they make your ears hurt. So, why do they hurt?
- Time: Getting used to your hearing aids will take a little while. Each individual will have a different adjustment period. When you first get your hearing aids, we can help you get a reasonable concept of the adjustment period you can anticipate. Also, speak with us about any discomfort you might be experiencing.
- Fit: The most obvious problem can be the fit. Needless to say, 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 customized 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 achieve the best possible fit from your devices.
Bypass issues with a little test drive
Before you decide on a set of hearing aids, it’s a good idea to test them for a while. 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 requirements, and helping with any extended issues you might have, are all things we will help with. We will be your resource for any help you need.
And that’s most likely more dependable than your internet company.