Hearing aids & main related problems

The ear is a delicate organ and the insertion of a foreign body can be uncomfortable at first.

Over time, any initial inconvenience typically fades away, leading to a comfortable routine where the hearing aid becomes an integral part of our daily lives. Today's hearing aids are designed to be increasingly compact, discreet, and comfortable. However, if you ever have any doubts or concerns, you can always schedule an additional consultation at one of our Amplifon centers. Our specialists will address all your inquiries and conduct any necessary further assessments.

Nowadays, the majority of modern hearing aids come equipped with an automatic acoustic feedback cancellation system. This feature serves as an anti-whistling mechanism, effectively eliminating any bothersome whistling that may be triggered through various means.

The whistling, often referred to as the 'Larsen effect,' occurs due to a lack of proper sealing between the hearing aid and the ear. In this situation, sound can escape from the ear and re-enter the hearing aid, resulting in the whistling noise.

In general, whistling can be eliminated by taking a few small precautions: 

• Ensuring the proper insertion of the hearing aid into the ear canal to prevent sound from reverting to the microphone.
• Avoiding covering the hearing aid with hats or scarves.
• Refraining from pressing your ear against a pillow as this could create a barrier that traps the sound and causes it to return into the microphone.

A consultation with a hearing specialist can help resolve doubts and, if necessary, check for earwax plugs obstructing the ear canal.

Experiencing high, low, or unusual sounds does not necessarily indicate a malfunction of the hearing aid, particularly if these issues arise in the initial days of use.

It's essential to understand that when someone with a hearing impairment starts using a hearing aid, their ears need time to readjust to the world of sounds. The adaptation process occurs gradually, as they become acclimated to the device and learn how to maximize its benefits.

So, if you happen to hear any unexpected noises during the first few days, there's no need to panic. However, if you have concerns, it can be helpful to have a conversation with your hearing care professional or an expert in audiology.

It's not uncommon for the sound from the hearing aid to initially seem too low, resulting in an apparent absence of sound while wearing it.

This is a normal part of the process. Hearing care professionals calibrate the sound conservatively to allow the ear to readjust to hearing gradually, rather than overwhelming it with excessive volume. Therefore, the first step is to permit the ear to acclimate to hearing once more, and as always, seeking guidance from experts can provide reassurance.

Many hearing aids are water-resistant; you can easily confirm this by reviewing the product data sheet.

Water-resistant devices are designed to withstand daily exposure to sweat and rain, protecting them from incidental drops and splashes. However, it's important to note that these devices are not impervious to all conditions. They should not be used while swimming, particularly in saltwater, as it can cause irreversible damage to the device.

In general, it is a good idea to avoid using hearing aids in the shower, in the swimming pool, or generally exposing them to water as well as storing them in damp places. A hearing aid that is excessively wet may stop working altogether or require the replacement of important parts, if not a complete replacement. Hearing aids are durable, but safeguarding the components is crucial to hearing crystal-clear and using them for a long time.

A good practice to prevent hearing aids from malfunctioning is not to wear them when using a hair dryer or when going to the hairdresser. Any water splashes as well as the heat produced by the hairdryer can damage the parts, not only spoiling the quality of the sound produced but also the device itself.

Lacquers, perfumes and sprays in general are no friends of hearing aids: the products can cause problems to both the external parts and the internal structure. Therefore, it's advisable to take precautions, such as removing your hearing aids when using hair sprays or being mindful to ensure that sprays do not come into contact with them.

Although it might seem convenient, making a habit of sleeping with hearing aids is not advisable. For one, the ear also requires rest to facilitate the natural cleaning process of its inner parts. Moreover, contact with a pillow can lead to whistling and bothersome noises. It's beneficial to establish a brief cleaning routine for the device before bedtime, including leaving the battery compartment open to prevent unnecessary drainage and to deter moisture buildup.

In exceptional circumstances or during emergencies, sleeping with hearing aids might be necessary. However, the key is to avoid making it a regular, long-term practice.

In case the device does not work, it's crucial to refrain from attempting do-it-yourself repairs. Even the most robust devices are quite delicate and, in inexperienced hands, can suffer irreparable damage. Therefore, in the event of problems or malfunctions, it is important to go to your local shop and consult a specialist. Amplifon centres are scattered all over the country, so even on holiday you can find one around you.