Have you ever been watching your favorite Netflix show when your internet abruptly disappears? Instead of finding out who won the baking show, you have to watch a never-ending 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 breaks down, it can be really frustrating. The same is certainly true of your hearing aids. Most of the time, your hearing aids will give you the means to remain connected to loved ones, have conversations 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 disappointed by the technology you depend on. How do hearing aids just stop working? So what should you do? Well, there are three prevalent ways that hearing aids can fail, here’s how you can start to recognize and troubleshoot those issues.
Three common issues with hearing aids (and some possible solutions)
Even though hearing aids are complex technology, individuals may experience three common problems with them. Here’s what could be causing those issues (and what you can do to fix them).
Feedback and whistling
Maybe you suddenly start to hear a terrible high-pitched whistling while you’re attempting to have a conversation with a friend or family member. Or perhaps you detect a bit of feedback. And so you think, “Why am I hearing whistling in my hearing aids? This is strange”.
Here are three potential issues that could be causing this feedback and whistling:
- The tubing that connects the hearing aid with the earmold, on behind-the-ear models, can sometimes become compromised. Have a close look to identify whether the tube may have separated or might be damaged in some way.
- Your hearing aids might not be seated in your ears properly. Try removing them and putting them back in. If the fit isn’t correct you might need to come in so we can help you get a better fit.
- The functionality of your hearing aid can be impacted by earwax accumulation in your ear canal. You’ll find this comes up pretty regularly. Whistling and feedback are often one result of this sort of earwax accumulation. You can attempt to clean some of the earwax out (never use a cotton swab) and if that fails, you can get some assistance from us.
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
Your hearing aids are supposed to make, well, sound. That’s their primary function! So if you find yourself thinking, “I don’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? Here are some things to look for:
- Batteries: If you have rechargeable batteries, make certain that they are completely charged. And even rechargeable batteries should be switched out on occasion.
- Power: Everyone forgets to turn their hearing aids on once in a while. Be sure that isn’t the issue. Then you can eliminate that as possible issues.
- Your settings: Cycle through the custom settings if your device has them. Your hearing aids might think you’re in a huge room when you’re actually in a little room because the setting isn’t right. This balance could throw off the sound you’re hearing.
- Earwax buildup: Here we go again with the earwax! Inspect your device for signs of earwax on the microphone or speakers or any sensitive bits. You want to make certain the device is good and clean.
We’re 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.
When you have your hearing aids in, you feel pain in your ears
Perhaps your hearing aids are fine functionally but they hurt when they’re in your ears. And you’re probably thinking: why do my ears hurt when I use my hearing aids? You’re not as likely to wear your hearing aids every day if they hurt your ears. So, why do they hurt?
- Fit: The most evident issue can be the fit. Needless to say, when the fit is nice and tight, your hearing aids will work best. So when your hearing aids aren’t fitting quite right, there can be some pain. Some models of hearing aid can be fit to the particular shape of your ears. Over the long run, you will have fewer problems if you have a good fit. 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. Each individual will have a different adjustment period. 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 get comfortable with your devices. Also, talk to us about any discomfort you might be having.
Take your new hearing aid out for a test ride
Before you commit to a set of hearing aids, it’s a smart idea to try them out 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. 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 with an over-the-counter hearing aid!
