As an audiologist and blogger, I often receive questions from Phonak hearing aid users. In this blog post, I will answer some of the most common questions I receive, so that you can have a better understanding of your hearing aids and how to get the most out of them.
What are common hearing aid problems?
Hearing aids are complex devices that can sometimes encounter problems. Common issues include feedback (whistling), static noise, poor sound quality, difficulty adjusting volume, discomfort, and reduced battery life. If you experience any of these problems, it’s important to consult your audiologist, who can help you troubleshoot the issue and make necessary adjustments.
What is the life of a Phonak hearing aid?
The lifespan of a Phonak hearing aid varies based on usage and the type of hearing aid you have. On average, Phonak hearing aids can last anywhere from 2-7 years, with regular maintenance and battery replacement. If you take good care of your hearing aids, they should provide you with many years of excellent sound quality. See our other article Do Hearing Aids Wear Out?
How do you do a hard reset on a rechargeable Phonak hearing aid?
To perform a hard reset on a Phonak hearing aid press and hold the on/off button (volume down) for 10 seconds. After 10 seconds, release the button and insert the batteries again. This will reset the hearing aid to its factory settings.
What should you do if a hearing aid does not seem to work properly?
If your hearing aid does not seem to be working properly, the first step is to consult your audiologist (find a new one at ZipHearing if needed). They can perform a hearing test and troubleshoot the issue. In some cases, the problem may be something simple like a dead battery or clogged speaker. In other cases, the issue may require a more extensive repair or adjustment.
How do I know if my hearing aid is in properly?
A properly fitted hearing aid should sit snugly in your ear without causing discomfort or pain. You should be able to hear sound clearly and without any static noise or whistling. If you’re having trouble with your hearing aid, consult your audiologist, who can adjust the fit and make necessary adjustments.
Can hearing get worse with a hearing aid?
Hearing aids are designed to amplify sounds so that you can hear better. However, if you have progressive hearing loss, your hearing may continue to decline over time, even with the use of a hearing aid. In these cases, you may need to have your hearing aids adjusted or upgraded to a more advanced model.
What is the average lifespan of a hearing aid?
The average lifespan of a hearing aid is around 5 years. However, the lifespan of a hearing aid can vary based on usage and the type of hearing aid you have. With regular maintenance and battery replacement, your hearing aids should provide you with many years of excellent sound quality. See our article about hearing aids wearing out.
How long does it take for your brain to adjust to a hearing aid?
It can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks for your brain to fully adjust to a hearing aid. During this time, you may experience a period of adjustment, where you may feel like sounds are too loud or uncomfortable. This is normal and should go away as your brain becomes used to the amplified sound.
