Have you ever had your internet cut just as you’re getting to the best part of your favorite Netflix movie? You sit and watch that spinning circle instead of learning about who won that cooking competition. And so you just wait. Is it your internet provider, modem, router, or perhaps it will simply come back on its own? It’s not a very good feeling.
When technology malfunctions, it can be really aggravating. The same is definitely true of your hearing aids. When they’re functioning correctly, hearing aids can help you stay connected with the ones you love and better hear co-workers when they speak to you.
But when they quit working, your hearing loss symptoms can suddenly become a lot more frustrating. You’ve been disappointed by the technology you count on. How do hearing aids just stop working? So what should you do? Well, there are three common ways that hearing aids can fail, here’s how you can begin to recognize and troubleshoot those issues.
Hearing aids can often have three common issues
Hearing aids are complex devices. Even still, there are some common problems that individuals with hearing aids may experience. 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 chat with your family or watch your favorite show and you start to notice a dreadful whistling noise. Or maybe you detect a bit of feedback. And so you think, “Why do I hear whistling in my hearing aids? This is strange”.
Whistling and feedback can be caused by these possible issues:
- You may not have your hearing aids seated properly in your ears. Try taking them out and putting them back in. If the fit isn’t right you may need to come see us so we can help you get a better fit.
- Earwax accumulation in your ear canal can undermine how your hearing aid works. This is a fairly common one. That includes making your hearing aid whistle or feedback. If possible, you can attempt to clean some earwax out of your ear or consult with us about the best way 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 sometimes become compromised. Try to examine this tubing as well 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 resolve these problems if you can’t fix them on your own.
No sound coming from your hearing aids
The main goal of hearing aids is to generate sound. That’s what they’re made to do! Something has certainly gone wrong if you don’t hear any sound coming from your hearing aid. So what could be the cause when hearing aids work but no sound comes through? Well, there are a few things:
- Batteries: If you have rechargeable batteries, make certain that they’re fully charged. And even rechargeable batteries should be swapped out once in a while.
- Your settings: If you have them, flip through your custom settings. Your hearing aids may think you’re in a very large space when you’re actually in a small room because the setting isn’t right. The sound you’re hearing may be off as a result.
- Power: Everyone forgets to turn their hearing aids on once in a while. Check for this first. This potential problem can then be eliminated..
- Earwax buildup: Here we go again with the earwax! Have a close look to see if you come across any earwax on the microphone or speakers. Keep your device really clean.
If these steps don’t correct your issues, we might have the solution. We’ll be able to help you identify the next steps, and whether maintenance, repair, or replacement is required.
Painful ears when you’re wearing your hearing aids
What if your hearing aids work perfectly, but whenever you put them in your ears, your ears start hurting? And you’re probably thinking: why do my ears ache when I wear my hearing aids? This kind of discomfort isn’t exactly conducive to wearing your hearing aids over the long term. So, what could be causing it?
- Time: Sometimes, it just takes some time to get used to your hearing aids. 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 concept of how long it may take you to get comfortable with your devices. Also, speak with us about any discomfort you may be experiencing.
- Fit: The fit of the device is the most obvious problem. Naturally, when the fit is nice and snug, your hearing aids will work best. Which means that there can sometimes be pain involved in a poor fit. Some hearing aid models can be fit to the distinct shape of your ears. The better the fit, the fewer problems you’ll have with pain over the long run. We will be able to help you achieve the best possible fit from your devices.
Take your new hearing aid out for a test ride
Before you commit to a pair of hearing aids, it’s a good plan to test them for a while. Most of the time we will have loaner pairs for you to try out before you make a decision.
Selecting the correct hearing aids, adjusting them to fit your requirements, and helping with any ongoing problems you may 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 probably more reliable than your internet company.