What Are the Common Problems Hearing Aid Users Face?

Hearing aids are commonly used to aid those experiencing hearing loss. Worn by millions of people around the world, they are personalized hearing solutions that are custom-fit and digitally programmed. However, there are a number of frequent issues that can be faced by hearing aid users.

If you’re considering having a hearing aid installed but are interested in first discovering typical issues faced, here are some of them:

A problem with the batteries

As hearing aids are very compact devices, the battery will run out from time to time. Typically, a hearing aid battery can last up to 30 days, depending on the type, the batteries’ capacity and the use. However, others might only last a few days – so it’s vital that you know what to do when it starts to run out.

If the sound starts to become distorted, you have to turn the volume up higher than usual or there is a beeping sound, it’s time to change the batteries. It’s advisable that you always carry around a spare battery in case this occurs.

Earwax

Excessive earwax is one of the leading concerns for hearing aid users. Interfering with the performance of the device, it can easily get into parts of it – such as the microphone.

To ensure that this doesn’t happen, it’s a good idea to clean both your ears and the hearing aids as regularly as possible. When seeking a new hearing aid, if possible, find one with a protective coating to prevent this issue in the future.

Moisture

Another issue that hearing aid users face is moisture in the device. At one point or another, your hearing aids will come into contact with this, whether you’re swimming, in the rain, in the bath or have just completed a workout. Although there are now devices that can handle the moisture far better than older models, it’s still a good idea to do the following:

Once the device has come into contact with the moisture, take it off, open the battery compartment and allow for the device to dry. Make sure that you don’t, however, rest them on the radiator to dry or leave them in a wet place when you aren’t using it.

Similarly, it’s advisable that you wash your hands before touching the hearing aid or its batteries. The oils within your hand could affect the longevity of the device.

Static and feedback

Some hearing aids can pick up their own operating sounds. Typically occurring when something rubs against them, they will amplify the noises causing a high-pitched ringing in the ears. If feedback occurs, you could invest in a hearing aid with a feedback elimination feature built-in.

However, if you are unsure as to which one is the most suitable, it’s worth booking an appointment with a professional audiologist who will point you in the right direction.

Controlling the volume

With older devices, users typically had to adjust the volume regularly, depending on the environment that they were in. Although newer devices tend to do this automatically, some new users might worry that they will still have to discreetly adjust the volume.

Hearing aid malfunctions

Another main worry is that because the hearing aids are small, they could easily be broken –  whether that be from stepping on them or them falling on the ground. Of course, hearing aids are not indestructible, but if you follow the appropriate care for your device, it will decrease this risk.

Sleeping

A main concern of hearing aid users is how they will adjust to using a hearing aid while they sleep. Not wanting to take them out completely, they wonder if there is a solution. And there is! There are now devices that you can wear 24/7, even when you’re sleeping. These devices can be worn for months at a time without removal, offering the right listening experience whenever you need it.

If you have any concerns about this, however, your audiologist can match a hearing aid with your unique requirements.

Learn more about Gavin Audiology and Hearing Aids today

Do you want to find out more about hearing aids? Then don’t hesitate to get in contact with Gavin Audiology and Hearing Aids today. From the moment that you contact us, a friendly advisor can give you the advice that you need before connecting you with a professional and experienced audiologist.

Simply call (914) 610-3440 and we can guide you on the best hearing aid for your requirements.