I'd certainly be a bit disappointed having a device just GO on me like that. Over time though for the price of a few packs of smokes a person can get good battery power for months? Meh? I prefer a year or more myself but after a few months I know the thing doesn't really Owe me anything. Not saying this is you OP but I see many folks (over) use a single battery having no other devices or batteries. When any battery is either in use or being charged constantly the lifespan will decrease. Batteries need a rest between use and charge and use cycles according to the battery gurus. If it does not get the rest it'll have a shorter life.
Like I said OP it may not be the cause of your specific problem, but thought I'd point it out. Cheers.