How We're Supporting Hearing Aid Wearers Across Anchorage

How We’re Supporting Hearing Aid Wearers Across Anchorage

10/25/2021 | Hearing Aids, Patient Resources, Troubleshooting

I’m sure you’re aware of just how sophisticated hearing aids are these days.

Inside their sleek casings, they have the power to change a life, with incredible amplification hardware and amazing features, such as Bluetooth connectivity.

But just like all forms of advanced technology, they can go wrong from time to time, which I know can be frustrating!

I’m very happy to check any hearing aid issues at the clinic, and it’s always great to see people from right across Alaska here, too.

But if you’re looking for a slightly faster solution, I’ve put together an article about how to solve the six most commonly found hearing aid problems.

#1 – Finding A Low Battery

Like all mobile technology, hearing aids rely on batteries, and it can be challenging to ensure that these are charged all the time adequately.

The lifespan of a hearing aid battery will differ depending on the style of your devices and on how much you use them – and can last from four days to two weeks.

But to avoid disappointment, I recommend always keeping some new batteries at home so that you don’t have to wait days to stock up on them if they suddenly run out.

You can purchase these at the clinic!

Hearing Aid Repairs

#2 – Issues With Humidity

As you know, electronics and damp conditions don’t mix well, meaning your hearing aids have to work in a challenging environment.

And over time, the humidity and condensation found in your ears can play their part in harming your devices.

To avoid these issues, I recommend taking your hearing aids out while showering, swimming, and going to places with high humidity, like saunas.

In addition, it’s a good idea to invest in a dehumidifier if you need to use them in places where it’s especially damp.

#3 – Earwax Interference

Another critical challenge that hearing aid wearers face is earwax build-up. As a result, a device’s microphone can quickly become blocked, while other exposed parts can also be affected.

The best solution is to have a basic cleaning protocol, which you can carry out daily. It’s also a good idea to inspect your device for problems and replace earwax filters regularly.

If you need any advice on these procedures, just ask, and I’ll happily run you through them!

#4 – Whistling Sounds And Feedback

Like a poorly tuned sound system or radio, hearing aids can sometimes produce whistling or crackling sounds, which can be annoying.

Often, this happens when you haven’t placed the device into your ear snuggly enough, and a piece of your hair or microphone is interfering with the device’s microphone.

But it can also result from loose wires or an internal problem with the technology.

To rule out a simple issue, especially if you’ve just started wearing hearing aids, try taking your hearing aids out and putting them in again using a mirror, so you can see that they’re inserted correctly.

You may also find that inspecting your devices for debris and cleaning them can solve this issue. But if the problem persists, feel free to give me a call!

#5 – Painful Sensations And Headaches

Hearing aids can be hard to get used to initially.

Many of those who have spent years with muffled hearing will suddenly find they have access to a vast range of sounds present in their local environment.

Your brain can find it challenging to adjust to this, and consequently, some people experience mild pain and headaches when they first start wearing hearing aids. However, hearing aids should NEVER cause you pain – so please get in touch with us immediately if you are experiencing any discomfort past mild.

As such, I recommend that those just starting out take breaks from their devices and spend time gradually getting used to them in different scenarios.

In particular, you may find it best to try them out in quiet environments in your home at first before using them in louder places.

One of my top tips is to read stories aloud with them initially for the first few days, which can speed up the transition process.

#6 – General Wear And Tear

Though hearing aids are becoming more robust, they can easily get damaged if you drop them or someone steps on them.

The best way to ensure they’re in good shape at all times is with daily checks and cleaning protocols, which you can carry out each morning or evening.

In addition, by placing a towel or soft cloth under your device during the cleaning process, you’ll cushion their fall if you happen to drop them.

At Alaska Hearing & Tinnitus Center, we’re also proud to offer a professional clean & check service for all hearing aid wearers in and around Anchorage. To learn more about our professional hearing clean & performance check service, please click here.

Hearing Aid Support In Anchorage

If you’re a hearing aid wearer in and around Anchorage, or you’re concerned about a hearing challenge, then Alaska Hearing & Tinnitus Center is available to help during these challenging times.

We have a range of options, from TeleHealth and Curbside appointments, which require no physical contact.

If you have a concern or want more information, regardless of where you are in Alaska, call us on (907) 522-4357, and we’ll be ready to assist you!

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Dr. Emily E McMahan

Dr. McMahan attended the University of Cincinnati where she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders in 2009. She furthered her professional education by obtaining her Doctorate of Audiology from Salus University in Philadelphia in 2013. She completed her residency in Anchorage and has been applying her expertise to her patients in the Pacific Northwest for several years. Whether you need hearing testing, hearing aids, or assistance with managing tinnitus in your daily lives, Dr. McMahan is qualified to assist you!

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