Have you ever had your internet disappear right 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. All you can do is wait around for it to come back. Perhaps it’s your modem, could be your router, possibly it’s the internet provider, or maybe it’ll just fix itself. It kind of stinks.
When technology breaks down, it can be really aggravating. The same is certainly 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 very frustrating when your hearing aids stop working. You’ve been disappointed by the technology you depend on. How do hearing aids just quit working? So how do you deal with that? Well, there are three common 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, people may experience three common issues with them. Here’s what might be causing those issues (and what you can do to correct them).
Whistling and feedback
So, maybe you’re trying to have a conversation with your family or watch your favorite show and you start to notice a dreadful whistling sound. Or maybe you notice some feedback. And so you think, “Why do I hear whistling in my hearing aids? This is odd”.
Here are three possible problems that could be causing this feedback and whistling:
- Your hearing aids might not be sitting in your ears properly. Try to take them out and re-seat them. If the fit isn’t correct you might need to come see us so we can help you get a better fit.
- The tubing that connects the hearing aid with the earmold, on behind-the-ear models, can sometimes become compromised. Have a close look to see if the tube may have detached or may be damaged somehow.
- Earwax accumulation in your ear canal can compromise the way your hearing aid functions. You’ll notice this comes up fairly often. That includes causing your hearing aids to whistle or feedback. You can attempt to clean some of the earwax out (never use a cotton swab) and if that fails, you can get some help from us.
If these issues aren’t easily resolvable, it’s worth talking to us about correcting the fit or sending your device in for servicing (depending on what we think the root cause of that whistling or feedback might be).
No sound coming from your hearing aids
The main objective of hearing aids is to generate sound. That’s their primary function! So if you find yourself thinking, “I can’t hear any sound coming from my hearing aid,” well, then something is definitely not right. So what could be the cause when hearing aids work but no sound comes out? Here are several things to watch for:
- Your settings: Cycle through the custom settings if your device includes them. It’s possible your hearing devices are not on the right custom setting (so perhaps your hearing aids think you’re in a gymnasium instead of at the kitchen table). The sound you’re hearing may be off as a consequence.
- Power: Everyone forgets to turn their hearing aids on once in a while. Check for this first. This potential issue can then be eliminated..
- Batteries: Make certain your batteries are fully charged. And even rechargeable batteries should be swapped out once in a while.
- Earwax buildup: Yup, earwax strikes again. Examine your device for indications of earwax on the microphone or speakers or any sensitive parts. You want to make sure the device is good and clean.
If these steps don’t address your issues, we may have the answers. 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
Maybe your hearing aids are fine functionally but they hurt when they’re in your ears. And you’re most likely thinking: why do my ears hurt when I wear my hearing aids? You’re not as likely to use your hearing aids every day if they make your ears hurt. So, why do they ache?
- Fit: The most obvious issue can be the fit. Needless to say, when the fit is nice and snug, your hearing aids will work best. Which means that there can sometimes be discomfort involved in a poor fit. Some hearing aid models can be fit to the particular shape of your ears. The better the fit, the fewer issues you’ll have with discomfort over the long run. We will be able to help you achieve the best possible fit from your devices.
- Time: Sometimes, it just takes a little while to get accustomed to your hearing aids. How long will depend on the individual. When you first get your new hearing aids, we can help you get a reasonable concept of the adjustment period you can anticipate. If uncomfortable ears continue, talk to us about that too!
Take your new hearing aid out for a test ride
Before you decide on a set of hearing aids, it’s a good plan 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.
In fact, we can help you figure out the best kind of hearing aid for your requirements, adjust the fit to match your ears, and help you take care of any ongoing issues you might have with your devices. We will be your resource for any assistance you need.
And that’s a lot more than you will get from an over-the-counter hearing aid!
