If you suffer from hearing loss, you depend on your hearing aids. If they're not working properly, you're going to miss out on a lot. Luckily, most hearing aid problems can be solved with a few adjustments. If your hearing aid doesn't seem to be working the way it should, read the list provided below. If you're experiencing any of the issues described here, visit your audiologist. Your hearing aid may be in need of some maintenance.
You Hear Muffled Sounds
If you suddenly only hear muffled sounds, take a close look at your hearing aid. The problem with your hearing aid might not be as serious as you think. In fact, it could be something that you can fix at home. Remove the hearing aid from your ear, and look inside the tube. If it's clogged with earwax, or you can see condensation, change the tube. If you don't have a replacement tube or the change doesn't solve the problem, it's time to take your hearing aid in for maintenance.
You Hear Whistling
Hearing a high-pitched whistle inside your ear can be downright uncomfortable. Unfortunately, if you're having trouble with your hearing aid, that's exactly what you could be hearing. Whistles can be caused by a variety of problems. First, your hearing aid might not be placed in your ear properly. Second, you could have a wax build-up in your ears. Finally, your hearing aid might be damaged. If your hearing aid is whistling, check the fit first. If that doesn't solve the problem, clean your ears. If you still hear whistling, it's time for a maintenance appointment.
You Hear Intermittent Sound
Hearing aid problems can leave you with a sound that comes and goes. Intermittent sound can be a real problem. You may even find yourself spending your day trying to regulate the volume. If adjusting the volume doesn't solve the problem with intermittent sound, check the battery. If the battery is about to die, you may find that the sound comes and goes on your hearing aid. If changing the battery doesn't restore the volume, see your audiologist.
You Hear Nothing
Finally, if your hearing aid is on, but you're not getting any sound at all, don't panic. There are a couple of problems that can cause your hearing aid to stop working altogether. The first thing you need to do is to check your hearing aid for signs of obvious damage. Next, check the tube to make sure it's still connected to your hearing aid. If you still can't pick up sound, your hearing aid will need to go in for maintenance.
If you're having issues with your hearing aid, reach out to a local hearing aid maintenance service. You'll be glad you did!