Once you’ve adjusted to life with your hearing aid, it becomes an important part of your daily routine. The thought of it malfunctioning can be intimidating, not just because of the inconvenience but also because of the prospective expense of repairs or replacements.
How to best take care of your hearing aid
Recognizing what can damage your hearing aid and knowing how to care for it properly will help you maintain its functionality and ensure it continues to enrich your quality of life.
Proper battery care
Your hearing aid’s functionality is heavily dependent on its battery. Therefore, selecting the appropriate batteries for your hearing aid is crucial. Talk to your hearing specialist to figure out the ideal battery variety for your model.
It is just as important to handle the batteries carefully. Oils, dirt, and moisture from your hands can contaminate the batteries, causing potential damage.
Always wash your hands before changing the battery, and be certain they are thoroughly dried to prevent introducing moisture into the device.
Adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines diligently, especially regarding battery care. To extend the battery life of your hearing aid, make sure to power it off when not using it and keep it stored in a secure, dry spot. Knowing the average lifespan of a battery can also be quite handy.
Make a note on your calendar each time you replace the battery, so you can estimate when it will require changing again. To avoid being stuck without power, always carry a spare battery with you, especially when you’re away from home.
Minimize the risk of moisture damage
As electronic devices, hearing aids are susceptible to moisture. Even brief contact can bring about harm or total failure of the device. Protect your hearing aid’s performance by acquiring a specialized drying device to maintain its functionality by removing moisture. This device can securely store your hearing aid when it’s not being used, keeping it dry and free from moisture-related issues.
To safeguard your hearing aid from water damage, it’s a good plan to take it out before participating in activities that make you sweat heavily. Consult taking off your hearing aid to workout, especially outdoors, with your hearing specialist, as doing so could jeopardize your safety by decreasing your recognition of important auditory cues, such as traffic noises or warning alarms. If possible, opt to work out indoors where it is safer to remove your hearing aid, and make sure to remove your device before showering or swimming.
Additionally, avoid using hairspray, spray deodorants, and other aerosol products while using your hearing aid. These products consist of moisture and chemicals that can accumulate on the device, resulting in long-term damage. In order to reduce exposure, use these kinds of products before putting in your hearing aids.
Control earwax buildup
Although earwax serves as a natural shield, shielding your ears from debris, dirt, and tiny insects, it can also interfere with the proper performance of your hearing aid. The accumulation of earwax in the device can result in it not working properly. For correct maintenance, make an appointment with your audiologist or doctor to evaluate the amount of earwax accumulation and develop an individualized cleaning plan tailored to your ears and hearing device.
It is necessary to clean your ears carefully and never put anything foreign into your ear canal. As opposed to that, let warm water go into your ears while you are showering. This can help in losening up and eliminating some of the earwax. It is also suggested to have your ears cleaned regularly by a professional. Though this might be a bit of a hassle, it’s a trivial concern in comparison to the disappointment and complications that can arise from a hearing aid that’s not functioning properly due to a buildup of earwax.
To properly clean your hearing aid, carefully adhere to the guidelines provided by the manufacturer.
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 indispensable part of your life, making it hard to conceive of managing without them. By using a few simple safety measures, you can avoid damage and ensure your hearing aids remain 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 enhanced quality of life they provide.
Make an appointment if you’re experiencing issues with your hearing aid or need to schedule a regular maintenance appointment.