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. Perhaps 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 great feeling.
When technology breaks down, it can be very aggravating. The same is definitely true of your hearing aids. The majority 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 extremely frustrating when your hearing aids stop working. You’ve been let down by the technology you depend on. Why would your hearing aids just stop working? So how do you cope with that? Here are the three prevalent ways your hearing aids can fail and how to diagnose and identify them.
Hearing aids can often have three common issues
Even though hearing aids are complex technology, people might encounter three common problems with them. Let’s take a look at possible causes of these issues and potential fixes.
Feedback and whistling
Maybe you suddenly begin to hear an awful high-pitched whistling while you’re attempting to have a chat with a friend or family member. Or maybe you hear some feedback. You start to think, “this is weird, what’s up with this whistling”?
Feedback and whistling can be caused by these possible problems:
- Your hearing aids may not be sitting in your ears correctly. Try taking them out and putting them back in. If the fit isn’t right you might need to come in 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 may have detached or might be compromised somehow.
- The functionality of your hearing aid can be impacted by earwax buildup in your ear canal. This is a fairly common one. That includes causing your hearing aids to whistle or feedback. If possible, you can try clearing some earwax out of your ear or consult with us about the best way to do that (do not use a cotton swab).
If these problems aren’t easily resolvable, it’s worth talking to 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 may 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 not right. So what could be the cause when hearing aids work but no sound comes through? Well, there are a few things:
- Power: Look, we’ve all disregarded turning on the hearing aid before. Make certain that isn’t the problem. Then you can cross that of the list of possible issues.
- 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. You want to be sure the device is nice and clean.
- Your settings: If you have them, flip through your custom settings. It’s feasible your hearing devices are not on the right custom setting (so maybe your hearing aids think you’re in a gymnasium instead of around the kitchen table). The sound you’re hearing could be off as a result.
- Batteries: Make sure your batteries are fully charged. And whether your batteries are rechargeable or not, it may be worth switching them out for fresh ones.
If these steps don’t correct your issues, we might have the answers. Whether repair, maintenance, or replacement is your next step, we will be able to help you figure that out.
Painful ears while you’re wearing your hearing aids
Perhaps your hearing aids are fine functionally but they hurt when they’re in your ears. And you’re probably wondering why your hearing aids would hurt your ears. You’re not as likely to wear your hearing aids every day if they hurt your ears. So, why do they ache?
- Fit: The most obvious issue can be the fit. After all, most hearing aids work best when they fit tightly. Which means that there can occasionally be discomfort involved in a poor fit. Many hearing aids can be customized to your particular ears. The better the fit, the fewer problems you’ll have with pain over the long run. If you come see us, we can help you achieve the best fit for your device.
- Time: Getting used to your hearing aids will take a little while. How long will depend on the individual. It’s worth talking about when you buy your hearing aids so you have a realistic concept of how long it may take you to become comfortable with your devices. Also, speak with us about any discomfort you might be experiencing.
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 drive before you decide. In most cases we’ll let you try out a set of devices before you determine that’s the pair for you.
Choosing 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. In other words, when your devices stop working, you’ll have a resource that can help!
And that’s a lot more than you will get from an over-the-counter hearing aid!
