Once you’ve adjusted to life with your hearing aid, it becomes an important part of your day-to-day routine. The thought of it malfunctioning can be challenging, not simply because of the hassle but also due to the prospective expense of repairs or replacements.
Tips for caring for and optimizing your hearing aid functionality
By being aware of the prospective hazards that can damage your hearing aid and taking measures to care for it properly, you can protect its performance and continue to appreciate the improved quality of life it offers.
Proper battery care
The performance of your hearing aid depends substantially on its battery. As a result, picking the appropriate batteries for your device is crucial. Discuss with your audiologist to find out which battery type is most suitable for your specific hearing aid model.
It is equally important to handle the batteries carefully. The natural oils, dirt, and moisture on your skin can pass on to the batteries and result in contamination, jeopardizing their performance and potentially leading to damage.
Prior to replacing the battery, make sure your hands are clean and completely dry to prevent any moisture from entering the device.
Adhere closely to the manufacturer’s directions, especially pertaining to battery upkeep. Power off your hearing aid when it’s not being used to preserve battery life and store it in a secure , dry place. Knowing the typical lifespan of a battery can also be really handy.
Make a note on your calendar each time you replace the battery, so you can predict when it will require changing again. It’s important to have a spare battery with you at all times, specifically when you are not at home, in order to prevent being left without power all of a sudden.
Protect against moisture
Hearing aids, being technological devices, are susceptible to moisture. Even minor exposure can lead to damage or a total malfunction of the device. To safeguard your hearing aid, think about purchasing a dehumidifier developed specifically for hearing aids. This device can securely store your hearing aid when it’s not in use, keeping it dry and free from moisture-related issues.
When participating in physical activities that cause sweating, you may think about taking out your hearing aid to stop moisture damage. Consult taking off your hearing aid to workout, particularly outdoors, with your hearing specialist, as doing so could jeopardize your safety by reducing your awareness of essential auditory cues, including traffic noises or warning alarms. If necessary, opt for indoor exercise where it’s safer to be without your hearing aid, and always remember to take out your device before showering or swimming.
Furthermore, it is suggested to refrain from using spray deodorants, hairspray, and any other aerosol products when your hearing aid is in your ear. These products consist of moisture and chemicals that can build up on the device, resulting in long-term damage. Apply these products before mounting your hearing aid to minimize exposure.
Avoid excessive ear wax accumulation
Although earwax plays a protective role by keeping dust, insects, and other foreign particles out of your ears, it can pose a problem for your hearing aid. Earwax can accumulate in the device, causing it to breakdown. To control this, have your ears checked out by your hearing specialist or physician to evaluate the level of earwax buildup and create an appropriate cleaning routine for both your ears and your hearing aid.
Cleaning your ears safely is essential– never insert any objects into your ear canal. Alternatively, allow warm water to flow into your ears during showers, which can help break up and flush away some of the wax. Routine professional ear cleaning is also advisable. Even though this might be a bit of a hassle, it’s a minor issue in comparison to the frustration and complications that can occur from a hearing aid that’s not functioning effectively due to a buildup of earwax.
When it comes to cleaning your hearing aid, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Different types of hearing aids may require different cleaning techniques, and using the wrong method could cause harm to your device. If you are uncertain about how to clean your hearing aid correctly, it is recommended to seek guidance from your hearing specialist or hearing aid manufacturer.
Simple steps for continued reliability
Once you get used to wearing your hearing aids, they become a crucial facet of your day-to-day routine, making it hard to picture life without them. By incorporating a few simple safety strategies, you can safeguard your hearing aids from harm and maintain their reliability over the long term. Prioritize regular upkeep, store them properly, and handle them with care, ensuring you can continue to reap the benefits of improved communication and a more fulfilling lifestyle.
If you are having difficulties with your hearing aid or need to book a routine maintenance appointment, please arrange for a visit.