Hearing loss isn’t a static condition. It can evolve or worsen over time. That’s why regular adjustments are essential to ensure your devices keep pace with your changing hearing needs. During an adjustment session, often termed a programming appointment, your audiologist will assess your hearing, detect any frequency shifts and fine-tune your devices accordingly.
There are a few common signs that your hearing aids require adjusting, including feedback, inconsistent volume and lifestyle changes. Let’s take a closer look at each of these.
Feedback
Hearing aids emitting feedback, often described as a whistling sound, could indicate issues like wax buildup, poor fit or the need for adjustment. Start with a thorough cleaning using a wax brush and a soft, dry cloth. If the whistling persists, schedule an appointment with your hearing aid specialist. They may adjust your hearing aid programming, check for repairs or conduct a more thorough cleaning.
Inconsistent Volume
Your hearing aids might need different volume settings for different environments. For instance, your devices may require one setting for a quiet park day and another for a loud concert at the St. Francis Auditorium. However, if you notice erratic volume changes this may signal the need for reprogramming.
In addition to erratic volume changes, if your hearing aids consistently produce low volume levels, it could suggest that your hearing loss has progressed beyond the devices’ current capabilities. In such cases, consulting your hearing aid specialist to explore alternative options is advisable.
Lifestyle Changes
As life evolves, so do our hearing needs and preferences. If you’ve recently encountered shifts in your lifestyle or hearing requirements—like embarking on a new job in a bustling environment or exploring hobbies that introduce you to fresh sounds, it’s crucial that your hearing aids keep pace with these changes. Collaborating with your audiologist to reprogram your hearing aids ensures they remain tailored to your evolving needs.
Hearing aids are an excellent option for the nearly 20% of the global population living with hearing loss. If your hearing aids aren’t providing the same level of assistance as they used to, reach out to Southwestern Hearing & Balance today. Our specialists are ready to help with adjustments or cleanings to ensure your devices continue to improve your life.