Beverly Hills Hearing Center was founded in 1983 by Bonnie Baehr. Prior to that, Dr. Baehr practiced at the House Ear Clinic in Los Angeles as a staff audiologist for seven years. She was involved with diagnostic testing, hearing aid evaluations, research and rehabilitation. Dr. Baehr did her clinical fellowship training at the Veterans Administration Outpatient Clinic in downtown Los Angeles. She is a member of the American Academy of Audiology, American Speech Language and Hearing Association, California Academy of Audiology and Academy of Doctors of Audiology.
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When hearing aids malfunction, it can be frustrating and affect communication, relationships, and overall quality of life. Recognizing the signs that indicate hearing aid repair is necessary can help prevent unnecessary disruptions.
When a hearing aid starts producing muffled or distorted sound, it often signals an internal problem. This could stem from a damaged microphone, receiver, or wiring within the device. While cleaning and maintenance can sometimes resolve minor issues, persistent sound quality problems may indicate the need for repair. Seeking expert assistance can help restore clarity and ensure the device performs optimally.
Frequent Whistling or Feedback
Feedback, such as high-pitched whistling, is a common issue with hearing aids. While this might occur occasionally during insertion or adjustment, frequent feedback can point to a malfunction. Damaged tubing, poor fit, or internal component failures can cause this problem. A hearing health professional can evaluate the device, identify the root cause, and make necessary repairs.
Frequent Battery Drain and Visible Physical Damage
A sudden increase in how often a hearing aid requires new batteries can indicate a problem with its power management system. Corroded battery contacts, damaged circuits, or software glitches might be the underlying cause. While replacing batteries more frequently can temporarily solve the issue, repair is often necessary for a lasting fix.
Cracks, broken battery doors, or other visible damage are clear signs that a hearing aid may need repair. Even small cracks can allow moisture or debris to enter, potentially causing further harm to the internal components. Ignoring these issues could worsen the damage, making timely attention important for maintaining the device’s longevity.
Unresponsive to Adjustments and Inconsistent Performance
Hearing aids often come with volume controls or settings that can be adjusted to suit different environments. Professional repair services can diagnose and fix these malfunctions, ensuring the hearing aid operates effectively in various situations. Hearing aids that work intermittently, turning on and off without warning, often signal deeper issues. These inconsistencies might be caused by moisture buildup, faulty wiring, or sensor problems.
Moisture and Dirt Buildup
Hearing aids are exposed to various environmental factors, including sweat, humidity, and dust. Over time, these elements can accumulate and impact the device’s functionality. Even with regular cleaning, professional maintenance may be necessary to address buildup that affects sound quality or performance. Routine inspections can prevent long-term damage.
Preserving Longevity Through Repairs
Timely repairs are critical in extending the lifespan of hearing aids. Ignoring small issues can lead to more significant problems, potentially requiring a full replacement. Professional repairs save money in the long run and ensure consistent performance and comfort.
Regular Maintenance is Key
To prevent hearing aids from malfunctioning and to ensure optimal performance, regular maintenance is important. This includes cleaning the hearing aid regularly, checking and replacing batteries, and storing the device in a cool, dry place. Also, scheduling regular hearing health exams can help identify potential issues before they become major problems.