Have you ever had your internet cut just as you’re getting to the best part of your favorite Netflix movie? Instead of finding out who won the baking show, you have to watch an endless spinning circle. And so you just wait. Is it your internet provider, modem, router, or maybe it will just come back on its own? It’s not a very good feeling.
When technology malfunctions, it can be very aggravating. Your hearing aids definitely fall into this category. When they’re functioning correctly, hearing aids can help you remain connected with the ones you love and better hear co-workers when they speak to you.
But your symptoms of hearing loss can suddenly become extremely frustrating when your hearing aids quit working. You’ve been let down by the technology you depend on. Why would your hearing aids just quit functioning? So how do you cope with that? Here are the three prevalent ways your hearing aids can fail and how to troubleshoot and identify them.
Hearing aids can often have three common issues
Hearing aids are complex devices. Even still, there are some common problems that people with hearing aids might experience. Let’s have a look at possible causes of these issues and potential fixes.
Whistling and feedback
So, perhaps you’re trying to have a conversation with your family or watch your favorite show and you start to hear a dreadful whistling noise. Or maybe you hear some feedback. And so you think, “Why am I hearing whistling in my hearing aids? This is strange”.
Here are three potential problems that could be causing this feedback and whistling:
- The functionality of your hearing aid can be impacted by earwax buildup in your ear canal. You’ll notice this comes up fairly often. That includes making your hearing aid whistle or feedback. You can try to clear some of the earwax out (never use a cotton swab) and if that fails, you can get some help from us.
- Your hearing aids may not be seated in your ears properly. Try to remove them and re-seat them. You can also try reducing the volume (if this works, you may find some temporary relief, but it also likely means that the fit is indeed not quite right and you should consult us about it).
- For those who wear behind-the-ear hearing aids, the tubing that attaches your earmold with your hearing aid may have become compromised. Try to inspect this tubing as closely as possible and make certain nothing is loose and the tube does not appear damaged.
Depending on the underlying cause of the feedback, we can help you deal with these problems if you can’t fix them on your own.
No sound coming from your hearing aids
The main purpose of hearing aids is to generate 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? Here are a few things to watch for:
- Earwax buildup: Here we go again with the earwax! Have a close look to see if you come across any earwax on the speakers or microphone. Keep your device really 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 concert hall instead of around the kitchen table). The sound you’re hearing might be off as a consequence.
- Batteries: Be sure your batteries are completely charged. And even rechargeable batteries should be switched out on occasion.
- Power: Look, we’ve all disregarded turning on the hearing aid before. Check for this first. Then you can eliminate that as possible problems.
If these steps don’t help with your issues, we might have the answers. Whether repair, maintenance, or replacement is your next step, we will be capable of helping you figure that out.
When you have your hearing aids in, your ears hurt
Maybe your hearing aids are fine functionally but they hurt when you put them in. And you’re likely wondering why your hearing aids would make your ears hurt. This kind of discomfort isn’t exactly conducive to wearing your hearing aids on a day-to-day basis. So, why do they hurt?
- Time: Getting used to your hearing aids will take some time. How long it takes will depend on the individual. It’s worth talking about when you buy your hearing aids so you have a reasonable idea of how long it might take you to become comfortable with your devices. Also, talk to us about any discomfort you might be having.
- Fit: The most obvious problem can be the fit. Naturally, when the fit is nice and snug, your hearing aids will work best. Which means that there can occasionally be pain involved in a poor fit. Many hearing aids can be customized to your particular ears. Over the long haul, you will have fewer problems if you have a tight fit. If you come see us, 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 prevent possible issues with hearing aids is to take them out for a bit of a test run before you decide. In the majority of cases we’ll let you test out a pair of devices before you determine that’s the pair for you.
As a matter of fact, we can help you identify the best kind of hearing aid for your needs, adjust the fit to match your ears, and help you manage any extended problems you may have with your devices. We will be your resource for any assistance you need.
And that’s a lot more than you will get with an over-the-counter hearing aid!