After you have become accustomed to using your hearing aid, it becomes a crucial element of your everyday schedule. The thought of it breaking down can be daunting, not only because of the hassle but also because of the potential cost of repairs or replacements.
How to best take care of your hearing aid
Understanding what can damage your hearing aid and learning how to care for it properly will help you maintain its performance and ensure it continues to enrich your quality of life.
Practical care of batteries
Your hearing aid’s performance is heavily dependent on its battery. Therefore, picking the correct batteries for your hearing aid is crucial. Discuss with your audiologist to find out which battery type is most suitable for your specific hearing aid model.
It is just as 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 functionality and potentially causing damage.
Always clean your hands before changing the battery, and be certain they are thoroughly dried to avoid introducing moisture into the device.
Adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions meticulously, especially regarding battery care. Power off your hearing aid when it’s not being used to preserve battery life and store it in a safe, dry place. Knowing the typical lifespan of a battery can also be very handy.
Make a note on your calendar each time you change the battery, so you can predict when it will need changing again. To avoid being caught without power, always carry a spare battery with you, especially when you’re away from home.
Prevent moisture damage
Hearing aids, being electronic devices, are susceptible to moisture. Even slight contact can cause harm or total failure of the device. To safeguard your hearing aid, think about investing in a dehumidifier designed specifically for hearing aids. This device provides a secure and dry atmosphere for your hearing aid when not in use, protecting it from damage related to excessive moisture.
To safeguard your hearing aid from moisture damage, it’s a good idea to take it out before participating in activities that make you sweat heavily. Having said that, speak with your hearing specialist first, as taking out your hearing aid during exercise, particularly outdoors, might pose safety risks by limiting your ability to hear environmental sounds like traffic or alarms. If possible, choose to work out inside where it is safer to remove your hearing aid, and make sure to remove your device before bathing 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. Prolonged exposure to these products can cause harm to the device, as the moisture and chemicals they consist of can accumulate and result in long-term degredation over time. Apply these products before mounting your hearing aid to reduce exposure.
Control earwax buildup
Although earwax plays a defensive role by keeping dust, insects, and other foreign particles out of your ears, it can present a challenge for your hearing aid. The accumulation of earwax in the device can lead to it not working properly. For correct maintenance, make an appointment with your audiologist or doctor to evaluate the amount of earwax accumulation and establish an individualized cleaning plan tailored to your ears and hearing device.
It is necessary to clean your ears safely 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 removing some of the earwax. It is also suggested to have your ears cleaned routinely by a professional. Though this might be a bit of a hassle, it’s a trivial concern in comparison to the frustration and complications that can arise from a hearing aid that’s not working 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’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.
Basic steps for long-term dependability
After you’ve become accustomed to wearing your hearing aids, they become an integral part of your life, making it difficult to conceive of managing without them. By implementing a few basic safety measures, you can protect your hearing aids from damage and maintain their reliability over the long run. Prioritize regular maintenance, store them safely, and handle them with care, ensuring you can continue to reap the benefits of enhanced communication and a more satisfying lifestyle.
If you are having problems with your hearing aid or need to schedule a routine maintenance appointment, please arrange for a visit.