When you buy a pair of jeans at Chilton Avenue, you might find that they’re a little tight or uncomfortable in certain places. Over time, those jeans will likely feel as comfortable as any other well-loved item in your closet. Buying a new set of hearing aids is not unlike buying a new sweater; you need to get used to how they feel.
For many people, that acclimation period includes a tinny, metallic quality to speech and other everyday noises. If your hearing aids make voices sound tinny, don’t panic. In many cases, your brain simply needs some time to adjust to hearing amplified sound at such a close range.
Why Do Things Sound Metallic?
Your hearing aids are designed to make sounds you’ve been missing easier to hear. But when your brain has become accustomed to hearing certain frequencies naturally, or missing certain frequencies altogether with untreated hearing loss, the introduction of technologically amplified sound can be odd.
The best way to help your brain adapt is to wear your hearing aids consistently throughout the day. Regular use gives your brain more opportunities to get accustomed to the new sound.
If the tinny quality doesn’t gradually improve or if it gets worse, it may be a sign that something else needs attention.
When Tinniness May Indicate a Problem
Not every unusual sound is part of the adjustment process. A prolonged metallic or distorted sound can sometimes be related to:
- Improper placement. If your hearing aids aren’t sitting correctly in your ears, the sound may not reach your ears as intended.
- Blocked or dirty components. Earwax, dust and other debris can interfere with microphones, speakers or tubing and affect sound quality.
- Moisture or physical damage. Moisture inside a device or damage to one of its components can cause muffled, distorted or inconsistent sound.
- Programming that needs adjustment. Your hearing aids are programmed around your individual hearing needs, but you may discover after wearing them in everyday situations that certain settings need fine-tuning.
If your hearing aids still sound metallic after a few weeks, try removing, reinserting and cleaning them using your cleaning kit. If you have a specialty hearing aid dehumidifier or drying jar, place your devices in the dehumidifier overnight.
Hearing aids that continue to sound tinny after a few weeks, and after you’ve tried a deep cleaning and dehumidifying, may need professional attention. Contact Today’s Hearing to schedule a service appointment with one of our specialists.