Hearing loss is not fixed; it can change and worsen over time. Regular adjustments are crucial to ensure hearing aids effectively meet your evolving auditory needs. During an adjustment or programming appointment, your audiologist will evaluate your hearing, identify any changes in frequency and adjust your devices for optimal performance.
How Do Hearing Aids Work?
All hearing aids have three essential components—a microphone, an amplifier and a speaker. The microphone captures sound waves from the environment and converts them into electrical signals. The amplifier raises the volume of these signals based on your specific hearing loss needs. Finally, the amplified signals are sent to the speaker, which delivers them directly into the ear canal. Modern hearing aids can also filter out background noise and may have settings for different environments, allowing you to hear better regardless of the setting.
Signs You’re in Need of a Hearing Aid Adjustment
Approximately 28.8 million U.S. adults could benefit from hearing aids. While these devices improve your life in countless ways, they require attention and care for the best performance. Several indicators suggest that your hearing aids may need adjustments, including inconsistent volume, distorted sound and feedback.
Inconsistent Volume
You may need different volume settings for different environments—for example, a quieter setting for a day in the park versus a louder setting for a Friday night dinner at Del Perez Riverfront. However, if you’re experiencing sudden or inconsistent volume changes, this could be a sign that your hearing aids need reprogramming.
If your hearing aids consistently emit low volume, this might mean that your hearing loss has advanced beyond what your current devices can handle. In such instances, it’s wise to consult your hearing aid specialist to discuss other options.
Distorted Sound
Distorted sound from hearing aids often presents as crackling, echoing or muffling, making it difficult to understand those around you. Low battery power, damaged components (such as the microphone or speaker), improper fitting or incorrect programming are the most common causes of distorted sound. Start by changing the battery on your devices. If this does not fix the sound, contact your hearing specialist for a repair.
Feedback
When you hear a whistling sound (feedback) from your hearing aids, it might indicate wax buildup, poor fit or a need for adjustment. Begin by cleaning your devices with a wax brush and a soft, dry cloth. If the whistling continues, schedule an appointment with your hearing aid specialist. They can reprogram your hearing aids, check for necessary repairs or perform a more comprehensive cleaning.
If your hearing aids are not providing the support they once did, contact Wilmington Audiology Services today to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists.