How Does an Audiologist Help with Hearing Aid Repairs?

Audiologists specialize in diagnosing and treating hearing loss and other ear conditions. They may work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, schools, or private practice. Audiologists are trained to help with a variety of situations, from hearing loss treatment to the maintenance and repair of hearing aids. You may wonder, how do audiologists help with hearing aid repairs? Let’s take a look!

Hearing Aid Styles

Picking the right hearing aid style is the first step to treating your hearing loss. Repairs and maintenance will vary based on the style you select, including these five common options:

• In the ear (ITE): The most common type of hearing aid, it is worn in the ear and fits snugly against the canal.
• Behind the ear (BTE): A larger style of hearing aid that sits behind the ear and is attached to a custom-made earmold that fits in the outer ear bowl.
• In the canal (ITC): A smaller style of hearing aid that is worn in the ear canal.
• Completely in canal (CIC): The smallest type of hearing aid, it is worn completely in the ear canal and is not visible once it is inserted.
• Invisible in canal (IIC): A barely visible hearing aid that is inserted into the ear canal and fits completely inside the ear. It is typically used for mild-to-moderate hearing loss.

If you’re not sure which type of hearing aid is right for you, your audiologist can help you decide. They will also be able to recommend a good brand and style of hearing aid that will work well for your needs.

Hearing Aid Repairs

If you need to have your hearing aids repaired, your best bet is to go to an audiologist. Audiologists have the training and expertise to properly fix most hearing aids. They can also help you troubleshoot any issues you’re having with your hearing aids and make recommendations for adjusting the settings or changing the type of hearing aid you’re using.

If you’re not sure whether you need to see an audiologist for your hearing aid repairs, here are a few scenarios where it would be a good idea:

• Your hearing aids are more than a year old, and you’ve never had them serviced.
• You’re having trouble understanding people when they talk to you.
• The sound quality from your hearing aids has deteriorated since you first got them.
• You’re experiencing feedback (whistling or ringing in your ears) when you use your hearing aids.
• Your hearing aids keep falling out of your ears.
• You’re not sure how to change the batteries or adjust the settings on your hearing aids.

Hearing Aid Cleaning

Like any other piece of electronic equipment, hearing aids need to be cleaned regularly. Audiologists can teach you how to clean your hearing aids properly so that they function optimally and last longer.

If any of these issues sound familiar, it’s probably time to see an audiologist. Audiologists can help you get your hearing aids working properly again and teach you how to use them effectively.