Hearing aids are sophisticated electronic devices that can be worn behind the ear or in the ear canal. A built-in microphone picks up sound and an internal computer transforms the sound into electrical impulses, amplifying the sounds for the user. Manual switches may be available to turn the hearing aid off and on, control the volume or set programs for different listening situations. A small battery supplies the power source. Despite the device's sophistication, hearing aids are relatively simple to troubleshoot.
Step 1
Check the hearing aid battery. Try flipping the battery around in case the "+" and "-" poles are reversed. If this does not help, replace the battery with a fresh one.
Step 2
Verify that any manual switches are set to the correct positions. The microphone/telephone switch may be set to telephone or the hearing aid may be in the "off" position.
Step 3
Inspect the ear mold opening for earwax. This is the hole at the end of the hearing aid where it fits into the ear. In-the-ear hearing aids typically have a wax guard covering this hole, and if the wax guard falls out, the speaker will become clogged. Use the supplied brush to gently brush across the opening to remove earwax. Do not dig into the hole, as this will damage sensitive components.
Step 4
Clear moisture out of the plastic tubing of a behind-the-ear hearing aid. Use the air bulb included with the hearing aid to blow air through the tube, drying it out. Consider purchasing a drying kit to store the hearing aid in at night. These containers act as dehumidifiers and remove moisture.
Step 5
Inspect the plastic tubing in behind the ear models particularly if the user hears whistling. The tubing should be clear, flexible and soft. If it is cracked, hardened or crimped, have the audiologist replace it.
Step 6
Push the hearing aid firmly into the ear. An improperly seated hearing aid may whistle. Alternatively, reduce the volume of the hearing aid. If the whistling stops, ask the audiologist to reprogram the volume to a lower level.
Step 7
Make an appointment with the audiologist. She will inspect the hearing aid for damage and the user's ear canal for problems such as infection or too much earwax.
Things You'll Need
- Battery
- Hearing aid brush
- Hearing aid air bulb
