What Are The Common Problems Hearing Aid Users Face?

Hearing aids are essential for people experiencing hearing loss as they can add value to their lives in so many different ways. If you’re currently experiencing problems with your hearing, you should seek help from an audiologist as soon as you can, as you too will experience the benefits a hearing aid can bring you. However, adjusting to life with a hearing aid isn’t always easy, and for some hearing aid users, some common problems can arise. Thankfully, there are solutions to these problems too. Let’s take a closer look at the common problems hearing aid users face.

Feedback

When wearing a hearing aid, there may be times when you hear a high-pitched whistling sound. This is known as feedback, and it usually occurs when something is rubbed against the device you are wearing. It could happen when you are inserting the hearing aid into your ear in the morning, for example or when somebody gives you a close hug near the ear area. While annoying, the issue isn’t that serious, although it is certainly an inconvenience. To get around this problem, there are various steps you can take. Firstly, don’t turn on your hearing aid until it is has been safely placed within your ear. Secondly, make sure your ear isn’t blocked with wax. Sometimes, sound will bounce into your hearing aid and cause feedback if it can’t get through your ear canal, so it’s a good idea to have your ears cleaned if there is a blockage. If issues persist, you should visit your audiologist, as it might be that the device isn’t fitting your ear properly. If this is the case, adjustments can be made. They might also suggest you try a hearing aid with a feedback elimination feature, so consider the option if feedback is a regular issue for you.

Battery Life

As with every other battery-owned device you use, your hearing aids will cease to operate when the batteries run out. This can be annoying and stressful, especially when you’re somewhere that requires you to hear correctly. It could be at a work meeting or a dinner party. The key here is to always carry spares with you. So, when your hearing aid signals that your current batteries are about to die, replace them in good time to avoid any inconvenient problems. Battery life can be anywhere between three and 22 days, depending on the types of batteries used and the length of time that you wear your hearing aids. Other factors that can affect battery life include having the volume of the device turned up too high or being in areas where there is a lot of moisture. Your audiologist will advise you on these and other common factors that affect battery life, with tips on how to make your batteries last longer.

Sleeping

It’s common practice to remove hearing aids at bedtime. This is because users might feel uncomfortable when wearing them and because battery life can be affected. However, many people worry that if they take their hearing aids out, they will be unable to hear important sounds, such as their alarm clock, their intruder alarm or the sound of their children. If this is something that concerns you, talk to your audiologist. Some hearing aids are suitable for 24/7 wear so talk to your audiologist about the hearing devices that could be appropriate for you. An alternative is to use items that give you non-auditory signals when you’re in bed. Phones that can flash when the alarm goes off can be useful, for example, as can those that vibrate when placed under the pillow. There may be other solutions so speak to your audiologist for advice.

Headaches

Headaches can be common when you’re still adjusting to your hearing aid but the problem shouldn’t persist. If it does, you should speak to your audiologist. It might be that they need to alter the settings on your hearing aid, as they may be too loud for what you’re ready for. Turning down the volume will usually help, and there are other things the audiologist can do to alleviate any problems.

Get In Touch

If you suspect you need a hearing aid, or if you are experiencing problems with your hearing device, get in touch with us today. Our team at Grusecki Audiology & Hearing Aid Services is here to help you, with any of your hearing-related queries. Contact us today at 623-583-1737 and book an appointment with us.