Getting hearing aids through an audiologist is the best way for a new hearing aid user to get adjusted to this new experience. As hearing care professionals, we provide a high level of care to users after they receive their hearing aid. We educate our new users so they aren’t surprised by the typical issues that come with using hearing aids for the first time.
Our key message for new users is getting accustomed to using a hearing aid takes time. Just as wearing new shoes can feel a bit uncomfortable at first, starting to use a hearing aid can be a little uncomfortable until you get used to them. Here are tips we give our patients to help them solve common hearing aid problems.
#1 No Sound
I’m a big fan of trying the easiest solutions before we look at more complex ones. That’s why my first suggestion for this problem is to make sure the hearing aid is on. Perhaps you’re laughing at that expert tip. However, new users sometimes turn the device off by mistake while they’re putting it in. Accidentally turning the volume down is another common problem.
If the power is on and the volume is set properly, putting in a fresh battery may get the sound back. If the problem continues, there could be a blockage in the microphone or the receiver. It’s time to gently clean those components as you were shown by your audiologist. The cleaning tools that came with your hearing aid are the only ones you should use.
#2 Uncomfortable Sounds
It’s typical for your own voice and background noises to sound uncomfortably loud when you begin using a hearing aid. It’s temporary. You’re experiencing these uncomfortable sounds because your brain hasn’t adjusted to receiving sound from the hearing aid yet.
Wearing your hearing aids every day for several hours a day makes it easier and faster for your brain to adjust. Also, it’s helpful to take a few minutes each day to read out loud to yourself. After doing that for a few days, hearing your own voice shouldn’t feel uncomfortable any longer.
#3 Whistling and Feedback Issues
It’s startling when you put on your device and immediately hear high-pitched feedback noises that sound like whistling or squealing. Feedback issues frequently result from incorrect placement or the volume being set too high. You usually can resolve feedback problems by taking the hearing aid off and putting it on in the right place or by lowering the volume.
#4 Uncomfortable Fit
Again, it’s normal for your device to feel a little uncomfortable at first. It simply takes time to get used to the sensation of having a hearing aid in your ear. Wearing your hearing aid regularly is the key to getting rid of that uncomfortable sensation.
While slight discomfort is common for new users, hearing aids should never be painful. When you experience pain as soon as you put on your hearing aid, that’s usually a sign the device isn’t in the right place. The pain should go away after you take the device off and properly reinsert it.
We’re available to help anyone who is still experiencing a problem with their hearing aid. Call us to schedule an appointment.
