After you have become familiar with wearing your hearing aid, it becomes a critical element of your everyday routine. The thought of it breaking down can be challenging, not only because of the hassle but also because of the potential expense of repairs or replacements.
How to best care for your hearing aid
By recognizing the potential threats that can harm your hearing aid and taking measures to maintain it correctly, you can protect its performance and continue to enjoy the increased quality of life it offers.
Practical upkeep of batteries
Your hearing aid’s functionality is heavily dependent on its battery. Hence, it is essential to pick the correct batteries for your device. Discuss with your audiologist to find out which battery type is most suitable for your specific hearing aid model.
It is just as significant to handle the batteries with care. 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.
Always clean your hands before changing the battery, and be certain they are completely dried to avoid introducing moisture into the device.
Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines meticulously, particularly regarding battery care. To prolong the battery life of your hearing aid, make sure to power it off when not wearing it and keep it stored in a secure, dry location. Knowing the average lifespan of a battery can also be very helpful.
Note on your calendar when you change the battery, so you can anticipate when it needs to be switched out. To avoid being caught without power, always bring a spare battery with you, particularly when you’re away from home.
Minimize the risk of moisture damage
As electronic devices, hearing aids are susceptible to moisture. Even minimal exposure can lead to damage or a complete 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 engaging in physical activities that cause sweating, you may think about removing your hearing aid to prevent moisture damage. Having said that, speak with your hearing specialist first, as taking out your hearing aid during exercise, especially outdoors, may pose safety concerns by reducing your ability to hear environmental sounds like traffic or alarms. If necessary, opt for indoor exercise where it’s safer to be without your hearing aid, and always remember to remove your device before showering or swimming.
Also, avoid using hairspray, spray deodorants, and other aerosol items while using your hearing aid. Prolonged exposure to these products can cause harm to the device, as the moisture and chemicals they consist of can build up and result in long-term deterioration over time. Use these products before putting on your hearing aid to decrease exposure.
Manage earwax buildup
While earwax serves as a natural shield, protecting your ears from debris, dirt, and tiny insects, it can also hamper the effective functioning of your hearing aid. Earwax can build up in the device, causing it to breakdown. For correct maintenance, schedule an appointment with your audiologist or doctor to evaluate the amount of earwax accumulation and develop a customized cleaning plan suited to your ears and hearing device.
Cleaning your ears safely is crucial– never insert any objects into your ear canal. Instead, allow warm water to flow into your ears in the course of showers, which can help disperse and flush away some of the wax. It is also suggested to have your ears cleaned regularly by a professional. Even though this may be a bit of a hassle, it’s a minor issue compared to the frustration and problems that can occur from a hearing aid that’s not working 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 become familiar with wearing your hearing aids, they become an essential part of your life, making it difficult to imagine managing without having them. By taking a few simple precautions, you can prevent damage and ensure your hearing aids continue to be reliable for years to come. Routine maintenance, proper storage, and cautious handling are key to keeping your hearing aids in optimal condition, allowing you to keep enjoying the improved quality of life they supply.
Schedule an appointment if you’re experiencing problems with your hearing aid or need to schedule a regular maintenance appointment.