While I really wish I knew enough to write this blog about cars (refilling the windshield washing fluid is really the extent of my car knowledge), if you are one of the many people in Houston, Texas that uses hearing aids then this blog is for you! Your hearing aid is a complex electronic device. It is also your link to the hearing world. If it suddenly stops working you should know a few hearing aid tips you can try to hopefully help it start working again.
The first thing to ensure your hearing aids are working well is to do some basic upkeep. This is similar to getting your oil changed every 3,000 miles.
Daily Cleaning:
- Use a soft dry cloth to get rid of any dirt or grime.
- Use a mild soap solution to clean the earmold, the part of the hearing aid that sits in the ear. MAKE SURE the earmold is completely dry before reconnecting it to the rest of the device.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a wax pick to remove any earwax buildup on the device.
Daily Battery Check:
The batteries used by hearing aids are not like the ones you are used to. These contain zinc; traditional batteries contain mercury. Zinc batteries drain differently. They can go from seemingly full to dead in an instant. This is especially problematic if you think your hearing aid sounds fine in the morning only for it to die halfway through the day. To prevent this, you should use a battery tester to determine how much life a battery has left. You should also make it standard practice to carry additional batteries with you at all times. This will prevent you from getting caught in a tricky situation.
Performing these daily chores should help ensure your hearing aid works well every day. Unfortunately, sometimes life does not work like it should and things happen. Below are some troubleshooting tips to help you out if something does go wrong.
Does your hearing aid sound weak or dead?
- Make sure the device is on
- Check the battery
- Check the openings to make sure there is no wax blocking them
- Check the tubing or wire to make sure everything is properly connected
Does your hearing aid sound distorted?
- Check the tubing for moisture or cracks
- Replace the battery
Does your hearing aid squeal or whistle?
- Check if the volume has been turned up too high
- Check to make sure the hearing aid is correctly placed in your ear
If you are still having problems, you will need to schedule a visit with your local Houston audiologist. The team at Center for Hearing will be able to determine what is causing your problems and complete any repairs that are needed.
