Life is already hard enough without having to struggle to hear what is going on around you. Imagine trying to follow a conversation, watch TV, or enjoy music, but everything sounds muffled or distorted. That is why hearing aids are such a life changer. They make life easier, allowing you to live normally.
However, if you are using hearing aids, there is nothing worse than having issues with the device. The last thing you want is more hearing problems when you already have enough to deal with. Luckily, most issues have easy fixes. Let's take a look at some of the common problems and how to sort them out.
No Sound or Weak Sound
This is one of the most common issues with hearing aids and can be caused by a couple of factors. The sound becomes too weak, and in some cases, there is no sound at all, making it hard to have conversations, listen to TV or radio, and engage in various activities.
Causes and How to Fix
Hearing aid not properly inserted - First things first, check to make sure that the hearing aid is sitting properly in your ear.
Dead or weak batteries - If the batteries are old, it may be the reason for this issue. Just check and replace them.
Clogged microphone or speaker - Clean the microphone and speaker using a soft brush or a wax pick.
Volume turned down accidentally - You might have accidentally turned down the volume. Check and adjust if it is set too low.
Technical issue - If nothing works, use your user manual and try a hard reset. If this too, doesn't work, visit your audiologist.
Feedback Noise
Sometimes, there may be some noise, such as a constant whistling or high-pitched sound, which can be annoying and make it difficult to use your hearing aid comfortably. This often happens when sound leaks out and gets picked up by the hearing aid’s microphone, creating a feedback loop.
Causes and How to Fix
Hearing aid not inserted correctly - The first thing is to always check that you have inserted the hearing aid correctly. Remove and reinsert it.
Wax buildup in the ear - Visit your doctor to check your ears for wax buildup and clean them if needed.
Volume too high - if the volume is too high, it can cause feedback noise. Lower it and see if the feedback stops.
Poor fit - Feedback noise can also occur if the earmold is too loose or too tight. If your hearing aid feels loose, visit your audiologist to adjust the fit.
Distorted or Muffled Sound
If you are trying to have a conversation or listen to TV or radio, but the sounds are distorted or muffled, it could be an issue with your hearing aid. This often makes it seem like people are mumbling or that the background noise is overpowering the voices.
Causes and How to Fix
Moisture in the hearing aid - Check if there is moisture or humidity in your device and wipe it, or use a hearing aid dehumidifier overnight. Storing your hearing aids in a dry place can also help prevent this issue.
Dirty microphone or speaker - Cleaning the microphone and speaker with a dry cloth can resolve this problem.
Low battery power - Try replacing the battery and see if that helps.
Technical malfunction - If the problem persists, your hearing aid may have a technical malfunction. Visit a professional to check it.
Hearing Aid Keeps Cutting Out
Another common problem is when the hearing aid keeps turning off or cutting out while you are using it. This can be really frustrating and make it hard to rely on your device throughout the day.
Causes and How to Fix
Battery issues - If the battery is old and weak or out of power, it can cause your aid to keep turning off. Replace it with new batteries, and make sure they are inserted correctly.
Moisture - Moisture buildup can also cause this problem. Always keep the hearing aid dry, and consider using a dehumidifier if you live in a humid area.
Hearing Aid Feels Uncomfortable
Wearing a hearing aid should feel natural and comfortable. If it is causing irritation, soreness, or pain in your ear, it may be a sign that something is wrong and needs fixing immediately. Here are some factors that may cause this problem.
Causes and How to Fix
Wrong fit or size - The hearing aid will feel uncomfortable if it is too tight or too loose and can cause irritation. Visit your audiologist to get it adjusted.
New hearing Aid - If you just got your hearing aid, it may feel uncomfortable even with the right size, as it takes a little while to get used to it. Try wearing them for short periods and gradually increasing the time.
Sensitivity in the ear canal - If irritation or pain continues, your earmold may need to be remade.
Bluetooth Connection Issues
Smart hearing aids come with a Bluetooth feature that you can connect to your phone or other devices. If it is not connecting properly, it can make things hard for you, especially if you rely on it for calls or media streaming. Here is what might be the issue and how to fix it.
Causes and How to Fix
Low battery - Check both your hearing aid and phone or any other device you are trying to connect to make sure they have enough battery.
Bluetooth settings turned off - Confirm that Bluetooth is turned on from your device’s settings and ensure the hearing aid is paired correctly.
Interference from other devices - Try moving away from other wireless devices around you that could be causing interference.
How to Prevent Common Problems with Hearing Aids
To ensure you don't encounter any of these common problems, you must handle your hearing aids with utmost care. As long as the issue is not technical, which, in that case, you need professional help, you can prevent some issues with these simple tips.
Keep Them Clean
Hearing aids sit inside or around your ear all day, collecting wax, dust, and moisture. If you don't clean these out, they might clog the device, causing problems such as muffled sounds and feedback noise. Clean them regularly, at least every night, using a soft, dry cloth or a small brush. Some models come with a wax guard. Make sure to change it regularly as needed.
Store Them Properly
A lot of things could happen and damage your hearing aids if you don't store them carefully. Don't leave them in when taking a shower or bath, or leave them in a damp bathroom. Also, don't place them on a bedside table or where they could easily fall. Store them in a dry, cool place, preferably in a case. If it comes with a hearing aid dehumidifier, make use of it always as needed. This will help prevent moisture buildup, falls, and accidents, which can cause distorted sound or even complete failure.
Handle with Care
Hearing aids are small and delicate devices which could easily slip and fall. Always handle them with care. Make sure your hands are dry and clean when holding them, and avoid dropping them, as internal components can get damaged. If you remove them for a break, put them in their case instead of just tossing them in your pocket or bag.
Change Batteries on Time
If you let your batteries die, your hearing aid may start having all sorts of issues, such as weak sound, cutting out, or Bluetooth problems. Always keep extra batteries with you and replace them before they die completely to avoid unnecessary problems. If your device is the rechargeable kind, charge it every night or according to instructions.
Avoid Exposure to Water
Hearing aids are not waterproof. Even sweat or humidity can cause moisture buildup inside, leading to unwanted problems. If you know you are in a humid place, use a dehumidifier overnight and never wear them in the shower, while swimming, or when dealing with water.
Get Regular Ear Checkups
Sometimes, the problem is not with the hearing aid but with your ears. Issues such as wax buildup can block sound or cause feedback. If you are experiencing trouble hearing, even with your aid, visit your doctor or audiologist to have your ears checked.
Check Volume and Update Bluetooth Settings and Connections
Turning the volume too high can cause whistling, feedback, and even discomfort, while turning it too low may cause weak or no sound at all. Set the volume at a comfortable level where you can hear clearly without distortion. For smart hearing aids, keep your phone and hearing aid software updated. If you have trouble with connectivity, unpair and reconnect the devices to refresh the connection.
Visit Your Audiologist Regularly
Even if everything seems fine, it is always a good idea to schedule periodic visits with a professional. This may be every couple of months or yearly, depending on your needs and how you feel. A professional can clean, adjust, and ensure everything is working as it should. A little care and extra steps go a long way in making sure you are living your best life possible without multiple challenges.