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Hearing Aid
Troubleshoot & Repairs
If your hearing aid has suddenly stopped working or isn’t functioning properly, you’re in the right place. Here, we provide videos to some of the most common issues that hearing aid users experience, as well as simple maintenance tips to keep your device performing at its best.
Common Hearing Aid Issues
Hearing Aid fixes usually take a few minutes, however they may be times where the slight adjustments do not help. Your hearing aid will need to be sent to the manufacturer by us for repair. Please give us a call.
No Sound or Weak Sound
If your hearing aid is producing no sound or the sound is faint, the issue may be caused by a blocked wax guard, a dead battery, or an issue with the receiver. Learn how to clean your hearing aids, change the battery, or replace the receiver below.
Whistling or Feedback
Annoying feedback or whistling can be caused by improper fitting or buildup of earwax. We explain how to adjust your hearing aid for a better fit and provide tips on ear care to reduce feedback.
Distorted or Intermittent Sound
When the sound quality is inconsistent or distorted, it could be due to moisture damage, debris, or a malfunctioning microphone. Discover cleaning methods, drying techniques, and how to test your hearing aid microphone.
Hearing Aid Won’t Turn On
If your hearing aid won’t power up, the most common issues include battery problems, debris in the battery compartment, problem with the charger, or a malfunctioning power switch. We’ll walk you through basic steps to troubleshoot and fix these problems.
Hearing Aid Troubleshoot Video's
Here are some of the most common symptoms of hearing loss.
1. Difficulty understanding speech, particularly in noisy environments.
2. Needing to turn up the volume of the television, radio, or other devices to hear them properly.
3. Frequently asking people to repeat themselves.
4. Feeling like people are mumbling or not speaking clearly.
5. Having trouble hearing high-pitched sounds, such as birds chirping or the beeps of a microwave.
6. Having trouble hearing sounds in the presence of background noise, such as in a restaurant or at a party.
7. Having difficulty following conversations when multiple people are speaking.
8. Avoiding social situations or conversations because of difficulty hearing or understanding.
9. Tinnitus, or ringing, buzzing, or other similar noises in the ears or head.
10. Feeling fatigued or stressed after prolonged periods of listening or straining to hear.
11. Finding clarity in loud environments
It is important to note that these symptoms can vary depending on the severity and type of hearing loss a person is experiencing, and that some people may not experience any symptoms at all. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or are concerned about your hearing, it is recommended to speak with an audiologist.
1. Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound is blocked from reaching the inner ear. This can be caused by earwax build-up, fluid in the middle ear, a perforated eardrum, or abnormal bone growth in the middle ear.
2. Sensorineural hearing loss is caused by damage to the hair cells in the inner ear or the auditory nerve. This can be caused by aging, exposure to loud noise, certain medications, or a hereditary condition.
3. Mixed hearing loss is a combination of both conductive and sensorineural hearing loss, meaning there is a problem in both the outer or middle ear and the inner ear.
1. Ageing: Age-related hearing loss, known as presbycusis, is a common cause of sensorineural hearing loss. As people get older, the hair cells in the inner ear that detect sound waves gradually become damaged or die, resulting in hearing loss.
2. Exposure to loud noise: Also known as noise induced hearing loss, such as at concerts, noise exposure at work such as drilling or loud machinery, or listening to music through headphones at high volumes. These exposures for extended periods of time can cause permanent damage to the hair cells in the inner ear.
3. Infections: Certain viral or bacterial infections, such as meningitis, mumps, or cytomegalovirus (CMV).
4. Genetics: Sensorineural hearing loss can be caused by genetic factors, including inherited hearing loss disorders such as Usher syndrome and otosclerosis.
5. Ototoxic drugs: Certain medications, such as some chemotherapy drugs, antibiotics, and paracetamol taken in high doses, can cause sensorineural hearing loss as a side effect.
6. Head injury: Traumatic head injuries can damage the auditory nerve or the hair cells in the inner ear, leading to hearing loss.
7. Meniere's disease: Meniere's disease is a condition that affects the inner ear and can cause vertigo, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), and hearing loss.
8. Acoustic neuroma: Acoustic neuroma is a rare non-cancerous tumour that develops on the auditory nerve, which can cause hearing loss.
Age-induced hearing loss, also known as presbycusis, is the gradual loss of hearing that occurs as people age.
Presbycusis typically affects the high-frequency range of sounds first, which can make it difficult to hear speech clearly, particularly in noisy environments.
As the hearing loss progresses, it can also affect the ability to hear lower frequency sounds.
Some potential causes of age-induced hearing loss include the accumulative effects of noise exposure over time, genetics, and changes in the blood supply to the inner ear.
1. Age-related hearing loss is the most common type of hearing loss in the UK, affecting approximately 70% of adults over the age of 70.
2. The prevalence of age-related hearing loss increases with age, affecting approximately one in three adults over the age of 65.
3. Men are more likely to experience age-related hearing loss than women.
4. Common causes of age-related hearing loss include genetics, exposure to loud noise over time, and changes in the blood supply to the inner ear.
5. Early intervention and treatment with hearing aids can help to mitigate the effects of age-related hearing loss.
Noise-induced hearing loss is a type of sensorineural hearing loss that occurs as a result of exposure to loud noises over an extended period of time.
This can include work environment exposure to noise (such as working in a noisy factory), recreational exposure (such as attending concerts or using headphones at high volumes), or a single exposure to an extremely loud noise (such as an explosion).
Noise-induced hearing loss typically affects the high-frequency range of sounds first, which can make it difficult to hear consonants and understand speech. It can also cause tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, and can make it difficult to hear in noisy environments.
1. Noise-induced hearing loss is the second most common type of hearing loss in the UK, affecting approximately 20% of adults.
2. The prevalence of noise-induced hearing loss is highest among people who work in noisy environments, such as construction sites or factories.
3. Exposure to loud music through headphones or at concerts and festivals can also cause noise-induced hearing loss.
4. Common symptoms of noise-induced hearing loss include difficulty understanding speech, tinnitus, and an increased sensitivity to noise.
5. Noise-induced hearing loss is preventable through the use of hearing protection, such as earplugs or earmuffs, and by limiting exposure to loud noise.
We have solutions to bring your hearing back and provide clarity in loud environments.
Recent research has uncovered a strong correlation between hearing loss and dementia.
A study published in the Journal of the Medical Association (JAMA) found that people with moderate hearing loss are three times more likely to develop dementia than those with normal hearing.
Another study in The Lancet reported that addressing hearing loss early on could prevent up to 9% of dementia cases.
The reasons for this connection is that hearing loss can lead to changes in the brain. When hearing is impaired, the brain has to work harder to process sounds, which can lead to cognitive decline over time.
Untreated hearing loss can also lead to social isolation, which has been shown to increase the risk of developing dementia by up to 50%.
Moreover, hearing loss and dementia share many common risk factors, including age, genetics, and exposure to loud noises. Both conditions are also more prevalent among older adults.
Around 466 million people worldwide have a degree of hearing loss, with the majority of cases occurring in people over the age of 65.
Addressing hearing loss early on could have a significant impact on reducing the risk of developing dementia. Regular hearing tests and appropriate interventions, such as hearing aids, can help to maintain cognitive function and reduce the risk of social isolation, depression, and other factors that contribute to dementia.
Hearing loss can have correlations with other health problems, such as:
1. Cognitive decline and dementia: Studies have found a strong correlation between hearing loss and cognitive decline, as well as dementia. This could be because the brain has to work harder to process sounds when hearing is impaired, which can lead to cognitive decline over time. Additionally, social isolation due to hearing loss has been shown to increase the risk of developing dementia.
2. Cardiovascular disease: There is some evidence that suggests a link between hearing loss and cardiovascular disease. Research suggests that the same factors that contribute to cardiovascular disease, such as poor circulation and damage to blood vessels, can also contribute to hearing loss.
3. Diabetes: Hearing loss has been linked to diabetes, with studies showing that people with diabetes are more likely to have hearing loss than those without the condition. It's thought that high blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in the inner ear, leading to hearing loss.
4. Depression and anxiety: Social isolation and communication difficulties due to hearing loss can lead to feelings of depression and anxiety, which can have negative impacts on mental health and well-being.
5. Falls and balance problems: Hearing loss has been associated with an increased risk of falls and balance problems, likely due to difficulties with spatial awareness and maintaining balance.
It's worth noting that while these correlations exist, they don't necessarily mean that hearing loss directly causes these health problems. Rather, they may share common risk factors or an increase risk with a hearing loss.
Hearing aids are small electronic devices designed to amplify sound for people with hearing loss.
The basic function of hearing aids is to capture sounds through a microphone, process them with a digital signal processor, and transmit them through a speaker to the ear canal. This allows people with hearing loss to hear sounds that they might not otherwise be able to detect.
1. Earache or pain: If the earwax buildup becomes too much, it can cause pressure in the ear canal leading to discomfort or pain.
2. Reduced hearing: A buildup of earwax can block the ear canal and cause temporary hearing loss.
3. Tinnitus: Tinnitus refers to a ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in the ear. In some cases, excessive earwax can lead to tinnitus.
4. Dizziness or vertigo: In rare cases, earwax buildup can cause dizziness or vertigo due to the pressure it places on the ear canal.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is recommended that you schedule an appointment with our audiologist for an earwax examination and potential removal. It is important not to attempt to remove earwax on your own using cotton swabs or other objects, as this can push the wax further into the ear canal and potentially cause damage.
Preparing for an earwax removal is simple and easy, we recommend using natural olive oil drops or spray 1-3 days prior, this softens the wax for removal - this will prevent you from coming back for follow up appointments.
Each ear should be oiled every morning and evening 2-3 drops, this may feel a little more blocked at first as the wax is expanding and softening but not to worry as this is completely normal.
You may usually be told that earwax will come out by itself with olive oil, however this can usually cause a further blockage, earwax should only be removed by an ear specialist as the eardrum is very delicate.
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1. Earwax, also known as cerumen, is a natural substance that helps to protect the ear canal from dirt, bacteria, and other foreign particles.
2. In the UK, it is estimated that around 1 in 10 people experience problems with earwax buildup at some point in their lives.
3. Earwax buildup can cause symptoms such as earache, tinnitus, dizziness, and temporary hearing loss.
4. Using cotton swabs or other objects to clean the ear canal can push earwax further into the ear which can cause more problems.
5. The most common treatment for earwax buildup in the UK is ear drops, which can soften the wax and make it easier for an audiologist to remove.
6. In some cases, water irrigation may be recommended by a healthcare professional to remove excessive earwax which is stubborn and hard to move.
7. Certain factors, such as wearing hearing aids, earphones or using earplugs regularly, may increase the risk of earwax buildup.
8. People with narrow or curvy ear canals may be more prone to earwax buildup.
9. In rare cases, earwax buildup may be a sign of an underlying condition, such as a perforated eardrum.
10. Regular cleaning of the outer ear with a damp cloth or tissue is usually sufficient to prevent excessive earwax buildup in most people.
Earwax, also known as cerumen, is naturally produced in the ear canal. It is a combination of secretions of the glands in the skin along with dead skin cells, hair, and dust.
Earwax serves an important purpose in the ear:
1. Protection: Earwax acts as a protective barrier for the delicate skin of the ear canal. It helps to keep the skin moisturised and prevents water, bacteria, and other foreign particles from entering the ear.
2. Lubrication: The oily consistency of earwax helps to keep the ear canal lubricated and prevents it from becoming dry and itchy.
3. Antibacterial properties: Earwax contains lysozyme, an enzyme that has antibacterial properties and helps to protect the ear against infection.
In most cases, the body is able to produce the right amount of earwax to keep the ear canal healthy and clean. However, in some cases, excessive earwax can accumulate and cause symptoms
Removing earwax at home can be dangerous and should not be attempted:
1. Risk of injury: using cotton swabs, bobby pins, or other objects can push the wax further into the ear canal. Often objects can get stuck in the ear canal, we have successfully removed cotton buds and headphone buds.
2. Ineffective: Cotton swabs and other objects may not be effective at removing earwax, and can instead pack the wax deeper into the ear canal, leading to further complications.
3. Masking underlying conditions: Some earwax removal methods, such as ear candles, can actually mask underlying conditions by removing only superficial wax and not addressing more serious issues that may be causing symptoms.
4. Unsanitary: Using unsanitary objects to remove earwax can introduce bacteria into the ear, potentially leading to infection.
If you are experiencing symptoms of excessive earwax, such as an earache, reduced hearing, tinnitus, or dizziness, it is important to seek professional earwax removal from an audiologist or ear specialist. They will be able to examine your ears and determine the best course of treatment to safely and effectively remove the wax.
Improper earwax removal can lead to a number of potential risks and complications. This can include pushing the earwax further into the ear canal, causing blockage and potential damage to the ear drum. It can also lead to infections, inflammation, and other discomforts such as pain, dizziness, and ringing in the ears.
Yes, there are several ways to prevent earwax build-up. This includes avoiding using cotton swabs or other objects to clean the ear canal, as this can push the earwax further in and cause blockage. Regularly cleaning the outer ear with a damp cloth can also help to prevent build-up. Additionally, avoiding exposure to loud noises and keeping the ears dry can help to reduce the risk of developing excessive earwax.
The frequency of professional ear cleaning can vary depending on individual needs and lifestyle.
In general, it is recommended to have a professional ear cleaning performed once every 6 to 12 months. However, those with excessive earwax build-up or other ear-related issues may require more frequent cleanings.
During a professional earwax removal, firstly an audiologist or ear specialists will examine the ear canal using specialised equipment .
They will then use a gentle suction through our microsuction method to remove excess earwax or other build-up from the ear canal. This process is typically quick and painless and should only take up to 20 minutes.
Yes, earwax buildup can potentially cause vertigo in some cases. Earwax can lead to a range of symptoms such as hearing loss, tinnitus, and dizziness or vertigo.
This occurs when the earwax blocks the ear canal and interferes with the normal functioning of the inner ear, which is responsible for maintaining balance and spatial orientation.
Additionally, an earwax impaction can create pressure on the eardrum, which can also affect balance and cause vertigo. If you are experiencing vertigo or other symptoms related to earwax buildup, it is important to see an audiologist for a diagnosis and treatment plan.
This may involve earwax removal by a trained professional, our audiologist can make this procedure quick and pain-free.
1. Tinnitus is often associated with hearing loss, and approximately 80% of people with tinnitus also have some degree of hearing loss.
2. Hearing loss can cause changes in the brain that lead to tinnitus.
3. Age-related hearing loss, also known as presbycusis, is a common cause of tinnitus in older adults.
4. Exposure to loud noise, such as from music, machinery, or firearms, can cause both hearing loss and tinnitus.
5. Certain medications, such as certain antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, and loop diuretics, can cause both hearing loss and tinnitus as side effects.
1. Hearing aids: For people with hearing loss, hearing aids can help to amplify external sounds and reduce the need for the brain to make up it's own sounds.
2. Sound therapy: This can involve using a white noise machine or other device that produces calming sounds to mask or reduce the perception of tinnitus.
3. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT): This is a type of therapy that helps people learn how to manage the emotional and psychological impact of tinnitus, and can help to reduce stress and anxiety related to the condition.
4. Medications: Some medications may be prescribed to manage the symptoms of tinnitus, such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications.
5. Tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT): This is a type of therapy that involves a combination of sound therapy and counseling to help people learn to habituate to the sound of tinnitus and reduce its impact on their daily lives.
6. Lifestyle changes: Reducing exposure to loud noise, avoiding stimulants such as caffeine and nicotine, and managing stress can help to reduce the severity of tinnitus.
It is important to note that there is no single "cure" for tinnitus, and that the most effective treatment will vary depending on the individual and the underlying cause of the condition. It is recommended to speak with an audiologist to determine the most appropriate treatment options for your specific situation.
1. Reduced perception of tinnitus: Hearing aids can help to amplify external sounds and reduce tinnitus, making it easier to cope with the condition on a daily basis.
2. Improved hearing: For people with hearing loss, hearing aids can improve the ability to hear speech and other sounds, which can reduce the impact of tinnitus on communication and social interactions.
3. Customisable settings: Many hearing aids come with customisable settings that allow users to adjust the volume, frequency, and other parameters to better manage their tinnitus symptoms.
4. Increased comfort: Some hearing aids come with additional features that can help to reduce discomfort associated with tinnitus, such as noise reduction, sound masking, or built-in tinnitus therapy programs.
5. Improved quality of life: By reducing the impact of tinnitus on daily activities and social interactions, hearing aids can improve overall quality of life and reduce feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression associated with the condition.
It is important to note that not all hearing aids are created equal, and that the most effective treatment will depend on the individual and the underlying cause of the tinnitus. It is recommended to consult with an audiologist to determine the most appropriate treatment options for your specific situation.
1. It is estimated that around 6 million people in the UK experience tinnitus to some degree.
2. Tinnitus can affect people of all ages, but it is more common in adults over 50 years old.
3. Exposure to loud noises is the most common cause of tinnitus in the UK, with approximately 75% of cases being caused by noise exposure.
4. Other causes of tinnitus in the UK include ear infections, certain medications, and underlying health conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes.
5. In the UK, tinnitus is the most common service-related injury reported by military personnel.
6. People with tinnitus in the UK may also experience hearing loss or hyperacusis (sensitivity to loud sounds).
7. While there is no cure for tinnitus, the British Tinnitus Association recommends several management techniques, including sound therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, and relaxation techniques.
8. Tinnitus can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life, and may lead to depression, anxiety, or sleep disturbances.
9. In some cases, tinnitus can be a sign of a more serious underlying condition, such as a tumour or aneurysm, although this is rare.
10. The economic cost of tinnitus in the UK is estimated to be around £750 million per year, including healthcare costs and lost productivity.
Making certain lifestyle changes can help manage tinnitus symptoms.
These may include avoiding exposure to loud noises, getting regular exercise, and reducing stress. A healthy diet and regular sleep schedule can also be beneficial. However, if tinnitus is due to hearing loss, it can get worse overtime so it is important to get an initial hearing test.
Yes, there can be a link between tinnitus and vertigo, although not everyone with tinnitus experiences vertigo, and vice versa.
Vertigo is a type of dizziness characterised by a sense of spinning or movement, often accompanied by nausea and loss of balance.
The underlying causes of both conditions can overlap, such as inner ear disorders or neurological conditions. For example, Meniere's disease, a disorder of the inner ear that can cause vertigo and hearing loss, is often associated with tinnitus.
In some cases, the symptoms of tinnitus and vertigo can be treated together using similar approaches, such as vestibular rehabilitation therapy or cognitive behavioural therapy. If you are experiencing tinnitus or vertigo, it is important to see an audiologist or medical consultant for a diagnosis and treatment plan.
Hearing aids are small electronic devices designed to amplify sound for people with hearing loss.
The basic function of hearing aids is to capture sounds through a microphone, process them with a digital signal processor, and transmit them through a speaker to the ear canal. This allows people with hearing loss to hear sounds that they might not otherwise be able to detect.
There are several types of hearing aids available on the market, including:
• Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids: These hearing aids sit behind the ear and are connected to a custom ear mold by a tube. They are suitable for all degrees of hearing loss.
• In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids: These hearing aids sit inside the ear and are custom-made to fit the shape of the ear. They are suitable for mild to severe hearing loss.
• Receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aids: These hearing aids are similar to BTE hearing aids, but the speaker is located inside the ear canal. They are suitable for mild to severe hearing loss.
• Completely-in-canal (CIC) hearing aids: These hearing aids are small and fit entirely inside the ear canal. They are suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss.
You may need a hearing aid if you experience any of the following symptoms:
• Difficulty understanding speech, particularly in noisy environments
• Frequently asking others to repeat themselves
• Turning up the volume on the TV or radio
• Avoiding social situations because of difficulty hearing
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should consult an audiologist to have an initial hearing test.
When choosing a hearing aid, there are several factors to consider, including:
• Degree and type of hearing loss
• Lifestyle and communication needs
• Comfort and fit
• Features and technology, such as Bluetooth connectivity and directional microphones
• Price and insurance coverage
Our audiologist would be able to recommend the best hearing aid for your specific needs and hearing loss after conducting a hearing test.
The price of a hearing aid can vary depending on various factors, such as the degree and type of hearing loss, the level of technology and features required, and personal lifestyle choices and budget.
For example, someone with mild hearing loss may require a basic hearing aid, while someone with severe hearing loss and an active lifestyle may benefit from a more advanced device with wireless connectivity and noise reduction features.
At our audiology clinic, we offer a range of hearing aids from various manufacturers at different price points to suit different needs and budgets.
Our hearing aid prices include a comprehensive hearing assessment, customised fitting and programming of the device, and a 8 week trial period to ensure the hearing aid meets your expectations. All future hearing test, programming and unlimited home visits will also be included.
We also provide ongoing support and maintenance services to ensure your hearing aids continue to function optimally. Please contact us to schedule a consultation and learn more about our hearing aid options and pricing.
Regular cleaning of your custom ear moulds is important to maintain their effectiveness and prolong their lifespan. Use a mild soap and warm water to clean the moulds, and avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
Our audiologists can provide more detailed instructions for cleaning and maintenance.
Ear moulds can help prevent both temporary and permanent hearing loss. Temporary hearing loss, also known as noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), can occur after exposure to loud noises and is usually reversible. Permanent hearing loss can occur after prolonged exposure to loud noises and is usually irreversible.
Signs of hearing loss can include difficulty understanding conversations, ringing (tinnitus) or buzzing in the ears, and asking others to repeat themselves frequently.
Our audiologists can perform a hearing assessment to determine the extent of any hearing loss and recommend appropriate treatment and protection.
Hearing Aid Still Not Working?
Your hearing aid may need to be sent to the manufacturer for repair.
Please send your hearing aid to our office below:
The Hearing World
75 Tottenham Lane
London, N8 9BE.
United Kingdom
Please include your full name and details of the patient.
Hearing Aids should always be sent on a tracked service - We are not responsible for any lost hearing aids shipped to us.
Please let us know via email to expect your hearing aids:
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