Hearing Aid Checks You Can Do Yourself

If your hearing aid has stopped working on you, your first point of call would be to get in contact with either the audiology department or hearing specialist that provided the aid. However, before you spend time waiting for an appointment and money on travel arrangements getting there, here are a couple of checks that it is worth doing before:

1. Has the battery died? Try a battery from a new packet is always a good starting point. 

2. Is the battery in the correct way? It may seem a bit obvious but in a busy hectic lifestyle this can be easily done. 

3. Is there any wax blocking any part of the tubing, microphones? Give the hearing aid a wipe with a damp cloth or if any wax noted in the tubing, you will need to visit someone who can retube this for you i.e. your hearing specialist, your hearing specialist could also show you how to do this yourself. If reoocuring wax blocking the aid is occuring visit your GP to check for blockage of wax to your ear canal. 

4. Has the aid build up with condesation? This can easily happen as you prespire, give your aid a gentle shake wrapped in a tissue and leave it in a dry place. 

5. Do you have your hearing aid on the loop (T) setting? The loop setting is generally designed for public buildings or if you have had the loop setting specifically fitted at home for your television. If you press your hearing aid onto the loop setting while you are in an area with NO loop system your hearing aid may appear dead, try pressing the button or switch to make sure you are on your normal hearing program.