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 finding out who won that cooking competition. And so you just wait. Is it your internet provider, modem, router, or maybe it will just come back on its own? It sort of stinks.
When technology malfunctions, it can be really 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 conversations with co-workers, and keep up with your neighbors.
But your symptoms of hearing loss can suddenly become really frustrating when your hearing aids stop working. The technology you’re counting on has let you down. How do hearing aids just quit working? So how do you deal with that? Well, there are three prevalent 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, people might encounter three common issues with them. Here’s what could be causing those issues (and what you can do to fix them).
Feedback and whistling
So, maybe you’re trying to have a chat with your family or watch your favorite television show and you begin to notice a horrific whistling noise. Or maybe you notice some feedback. And so you think, “Why am I hearing whistling in my hearing aids? This is odd”.
Here are three possible issues that could be causing this whistling and feedback:
- The functionality of your hearing aid can be affected by earwax buildup in your ear canal. This is a relatively common one. That includes making your hearing aid whistle or feedback. If possible, you can try clearing some earwax out of your ear or talk to us about the best method to do that (don’t use a cotton swab).
- The tubing that connects the hearing aid with the earmold, on behind-the-ear models, can occasionally become compromised. Try to inspect this tubing as closely as you can and make certain nothing is loose and the tube doesn’t appear damaged.
- You might not have your hearing aids seated properly in your ears. Try to take them out and re-seat them. You can also try turning the volume down (if this works, you might find some temporary relief, but it also likely means that the fit isn’t 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 figure them out on your own.
Hearing aids not generating sound
The main objective of hearing aids is to generate sound. That’s what they’re made to do! So if you find yourself thinking, “I don’t hear any sound in my hearing aid,” well, then something is certainly wrong. So what could be the explanation when hearing aids work but no sound comes through? Here are several things to look for:
- Earwax buildup: Here we go again with the earwax! Have a close look to see if you discover any earwax on the speakers or microphone. Keep your device very clean.
- Batteries: If you have rechargeable batteries, be sure that they are fully charged. And whether your batteries are rechargeable or not, it may be worth swapping them out for fresh ones.
- Power: Look, we’ve all disregarded turning the hearing aids on before. Check for this first. This possible issue can then be eliminated..
- Your settings: Scroll through the custom settings if your device includes them. It’s feasible your hearing devices are on the wrong custom setting (so perhaps your hearing aids think you’re in a concert hall instead of at the kitchen table). The sound you’re hearing might be off as a result.
We’re here for you if these steps don’t clear up your issues. Whether repair, maintenance, or replacement is your next step, we will be able to help you figure that out.
Your ears hurt while you’re wearing your hearing aids
Maybe your hearing aids are fine functionally but they hurt when you put them in. And you’re likely thinking: why do my ears ache when I use my hearing aids? You’re not as likely to use your hearing aids on a daily basis 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. How long will depend on the individual. When you first get your hearing aids, we can help you get a reasonable concept of the adjustment period you can anticipate. Also, talk to us about any discomfort you may be having.
- Fit: The fit of the device is the most evident issue. Naturally, when the fit is nice and snug, your hearing aids will work best. So when your hearing aids aren’t fitting very well, there can be some discomfort. Many hearing aids can be personalized to your specific ears. Over the long run, you will have fewer problems if you have a good fit. We will be able to help you achieve the best possible fit from your devices.
Bypass issues with a little test drive
One of the best ways to avoid possible problems 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.
In fact, we can help you determine the best kind of hearing aid for your requirements, adjust the fit to match your ears, and help you manage any ongoing issues you may have with your devices. We will be your resource for any assistance you need.
And that’s probably more reliable than your internet company.
