After you have become familiar with wearing your hearing aid, it becomes an important element of your day-to-day schedule. The prospect of a breakdown can be distressing, as it causes not only a disturbance to everyday life, but also a significant monetary burden in the form of repair or replacement expenses.
Tips for caring for and maximizing your hearing aid functionality
Recognizing what can damage your hearing aid and learning how to maintain it properly will help you maintain its functionality and ensure it continues to enhance your quality of life.
Proper battery care
The effectiveness of your hearing aid relies considerably on its battery. Thus, it is essential to pick the appropriate batteries for your device. Consult with your hearing specialist to figure out the best battery type for your model.
Handling the batteries with care is just as important. The natural oils, dirt, and moisture on your skin can transfer to the batteries and cause contamination, jeopardizing their functionality and potentially leading to damage.
Prior to replacing the battery, make sure your hands are clean and thoroughly dry to keep any moisture from entering the device.
Adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions meticulously, especially regarding battery care. To prolong the battery life of your hearing aid, be certain to power it down when not using it and keep it stored in a secure, dry spot. Familiarizing yourself with the battery’s typical lifespan is also beneficial.
Note on your calendar when you change the battery, so you can anticipate when it needs to be replaced. It’s crucial to have a fresh battery with you at all times, specifically when you are not at home, in order to prevent being left without power unexpectedly.
Prevent moisture damage
Hearing aids, being technological devices, are vulnerable to moisture. Even minimal exposure can lead to damage or a complete malfunction of the device. To safeguard your hearing aid, consider investing in a dehumidifier designed 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 might think about taking out your hearing aid to prevent moisture damage. However, consult your hearing specialist first, as removing your hearing aid during exercise, particularly outdoors, may pose safety concerns by limiting your ability to hear external 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 going for a swim.
Moreover, it is recommended to avoid using spray deodorants, hairspray, and any other aerosol products when your hearing aid is in your ear. These products contain moisture and chemicals that can build up on the device, leading to long-term damage. In order to minimize exposure, use these kinds of products before putting in your hearing aids.
Prevent excessive ear wax accumulation
Though earwax plays a protective role by keeping dust, insects, and other foreign debris out of your ears, it can present a challenge for your hearing aid. The buildup of earwax in the device can result in it not functioning correctly. To manage this, have your ears examined 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 crucial– never insert any objects into your ear canal. Alternatively, allow warm water to stream into your ears in the course of showers, which can help break up and wash away some of the wax. It is also recommended to have your ears cleaned routinely by a professional. While this may seem inconvenient, it’s much less troublesome than managing a malfunctioning hearing aid dued to excessive 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 methods to ensure lasting reliability
After you’ve become familiar with wearing your hearing aids, they become an indispensable part of your life, making it difficult to imagine managing without having them. By taking a few easy precautions, you can prevent damage and ensure your hearing aids continue to be reliable for years to come. Regular upkeep, appropriate storage, and cautious handling are essential to keeping your hearing aids in optimal condition, allowing you to keep enjoying the improved quality of life they supply.
If you are having problems with your hearing aid or need to book a routine maintenance appointment, please arrange for a visit.