Though hearing aids are often recommended for those who suffer from hearing impairments, they are not without their faults. Hearing aid problems are numerous and can include high amounts of background noise and pain during use. In addition, adjusting the volume of a hearing aid can prove very difficult for some users, especially those suffering from arthritis or other joint problems. Those who are experiencing difficulty with their hearing aid may want to examine the battery for signs of water damage. A low battery can also significantly decrease the effectiveness of a hearing aid.
Those whose hearing aid problems include background noise may want to consider purchasing a digital hearing aid. These can be more effective in reducing background static. In addition, hearing aids that feature frequency modulation (FM) options can help prevent background noise.
Hearing aid problems for users can also include pain, soreness, or tenderness. In most cases, this pain is caused by an aid that is either too large or too small for the ear. Those who experience pain or tenderness after wearing a hearing aid may want to evaluate its size. An ear that is red may also indicate a hearing aid that is either too large or too small.
Setting or adjusting the volume of a hearing aid can prove very difficult for some individuals. The dials used to adjust the volume of a hearing aid are usually quite small and can be hard to manipulate for the elderly, who most commonly use them. Specialty tools, designed to easily adjust hearing aid volume level, can be purchased at most pharmacies.
In some cases, hearing aid problems may be linked to a product that has become wet or waterlogged. While a walk in the rain or even a heavy workout will usually not damage a hearing aid, individuals using these products are usually encouraged to remove them while showering. Failure to do so can result in a hearing aid that is extremely clogged with water. Kits designed to prevent water damage to hearing aids are available.
The quality of life of the hearing aid battery can significantly alter its effectiveness. While some batteries designed for hearing aid use may last for weeks or even months, others may show signs of failure after only a few weeks. Blurred or slurred sounds may suggest that a hearing aid battery needs replacing.