After you have become accustomed to wearing your hearing aid, it becomes an important element of your daily schedule. The thought of it malfunctioning can be daunting, not only because of the hassle but also because of the prospective cost of repairs or replacements.
How to best care for your hearing aid
By understanding the potential hazards that can damage your hearing aid and taking measures to care for it properly, you can preserve its effectiveness and continue to enjoy the increased quality of life it provides.
Practical care of batteries
The effectiveness of your hearing aid depends substantially on its battery. Hence, it is important to pick the appropriate batteries for your device. Consult with your audiologist to find out which battery type is most suitable for your specific hearing aid model.
Handling the batteries with care is just as important. Oils, dirt, and moisture from your hands can contaminate the batteries, causing potential damage.
Prior to switching out the battery, make sure your hands are clean and thoroughly dry to prevent any moisture from entering the device.
Adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions diligently, particularly concerning battery care. To extend the battery life of your hearing aid, be certain to power it off when not wearing it and keep it stored in a secure, dry spot. Familiarizing yourself with the battery’s normal lifespan is also beneficial.
Make a note on your calendar every time you replace the battery, so you can estimate when it will require changing again. To avoid being caught without power, always carry a spare battery with you, particularly when you’re away from home.
Protect against moisture
As electronic devices, hearing aids are vulnerable to moisture. Even brief contact can bring about harm or total failure of the device. Protect your hearing aid’s functionality by purchasing a specialized drying device to preserve its functionality by getting rid of moisture. This device can safely store your hearing aid when it’s not being used, keeping it dry and free from moisture-related problems.
When participating in physical activities that cause sweating, you may consider removing your hearing aid to prevent moisture damage. However, consult your hearing specialist first, as taking out your hearing aid during exercise, especially outdoors, may pose safety concerns by reducing your ability to hear external sounds like traffic or alarms. If possible, choose to exercise indoors where it is safer to take out your hearing aid, and make sure to remove your device before bathing or swimming.
Additionally, avoid utilizing hairspray, spray deodorants, and other aerosol products while using your hearing aid. Extended exposure to these products can cause harm to the device, as the moisture and chemicals they contain can build up and lead to irreversible deterioration over time. Use these products before putting on your hearing aid to decrease exposure.
Manage earwax buildup
Although earwax plays a defensive role by keeping dust, insects, and other foreign particles out of your ears, it can pose a challenge for your hearing aid. Earwax can build up in the device, causing it to fail. For correct maintenance, schedule an appointment with your audiologist or doctor to evaluate the amount of earwax accumulation and establish a personalized cleaning plan tailored to your ears and hearing device.
Cleaning your ears safely is essential– never insert any objects into your ear canal. Instead of that, let warm water go into your ears while you shower. This can assist in losening up and removing some of the earwax. Routine professional ear cleaning is also advisable. Even though this may be a bit of a hassle, it’s a trivial concern in comparison to the frustration and problems that can occur from a hearing aid that’s not functioning properly due to a buildup of earwax.
When it comes to cleaning your hearing aid, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Various kinds of hearing aids may need specific cleaning methods, and using an incorrect technique might damage your device. If you’re unsure about the proper cleaning method, consult your hearing specialist or hearing aid provider to ensure you’re taking the correct steps to protect your device from earwax damage.
Simple methods to ensure lasting dependability
After you’ve grown familiar with wearing your hearing aids, they become an essential part of your life, making it hard to conceive of managing without having them. By using a few easy safety measures, you can avoid damage and ensure your hearing aids remain reliable for years to come. Prioritize routine maintenance, store them safely, and handle them with care, ensuring you can continue to reap the benefits of enhanced communication and a more fulfilling lifestyle.
If you are having difficulties with your hearing aid or need to schedule a routine maintenance appointment, please arrange for a visit.