If you or a loved one suffers from hearing loss, the introduction of hearing aids has likely been a life-changing experience. But anyone who has used hearing aids, especially when first starting out, can attest to the occasional issue and a few struggles getting things just right.
Fortunately, many of the most common issues experienced by hearing aid users have simple solutions that the user can quickly address. If you are new to the hearing aid scene, common problems include:
- The hearing aid is slipping out or is uncomfortable
- Sound seems muffled or the hearing aid isn’t loud enough
- There is no sound at all; the hearing aids are “dead”
- There is whistling or feedback
- The sound seems distorted or is difficult to understand
Begin troubleshooting any of these issues by checking the following:
- Confirm that the device did not accidentally get turned off or the volume turned down.
- Take out your hearing aids and reinsert them to be sure they are properly seated in your ears.
- Check the device for earwax buildup that could be blocking the sound.
- Test the batteries or replace them if they are old.
- Use your hearing aid dehumidifier or drying kit to ensure there is no moisture in the device.
- Toggle through the programming and memory on your device to be sure it is set for the proper hearing environment.
Proper fit and care are key to better hearing
If you are new to hearing aids, it may take some time to get the fit and comfort just right. It’s important to be patient and to work closely with your audiologist since an ill-fitting hearing aid can cause muffled or distorted sound or whistling if sound is leaking out around the device.
Distortion also can occur if corrosion has collected on the battery contacts so checking the batteries and cleaning the contacts regularly is a good idea to maintain the device.
If you continue to be uncomfortable with your hearing aids or your ability to hear and understand, talk to your audiologist right away. You may need an adjustment in the design or type of device you are using, or your hearing may have changed.
Your hearing specialist can help
Hearing experts agree it takes time to adjust to hearing aids, especially when you have been dealing with hearing loss over an extended period of time. Whether you need guidance with inserting, programming, or adjusting your hearing aids, your audiologist can help. A hearing aid that is slipping or uncomfortable may be outfitted with a different size dome or retention wire, or the shell can be modified for a better fit. If you have experienced additional hearing loss, your hearing aid can be reprogrammed to work better for you.
If you are struggling with hearing aids, hearing loss, or have questions about whether an audiologist can help you, contact Hear-Again Hearing Center, or click here for more information about hearing services and treatments that could help you or a loved one.