Once you’ve adjusted to life with your hearing aid, it becomes an important part of your everyday regimen. The thought of it malfunctioning can be challenging, not just because of the hassle but also due to the potential cost of repairs or replacements.
How to best care for your hearing aid
Recognizing what can damage your hearing aid and learning how to care for it correctly will help you maintain its performance and ensure it continues to enhance your quality of life.
Effective upkeep of batteries
Your hearing aid’s functionality is heavily dependent on its battery. Thus, it is important to pick the correct batteries for your device. Consult 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 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.
Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines diligently, especially regarding battery care. To prolong the battery life of your hearing aid, be certain to power it off when not using it and keep it stored in a secure, dry spot. Familiarizing yourself with the battery’s typical lifespan is also worthwhile.
Make a note on your calendar each time you change the battery, so you can predict when it will require changing again. To avoid being stuck without power, always bring a spare battery with you, particularly when you’re away from home.
Guard against moisture
As electronic devices, hearing aids are vulnerable to moisture. Even minor exposure can lead to damage or a complete breakdown of the device. Protect your hearing aid’s functionality by acquiring a specialized drying device to maintain its functionality by removing moisture. This device can safely store your hearing aid when it’s not in use, keeping it dry and free from moisture-related issues.
When participating in physical activities that trigger sweating, you might think about removing your hearing aid to prevent moisture damage. However, consult your hearing specialist first, as removing your hearing aid during exercise, particularly outdoors, might pose safety concerns by limiting 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.
Furthermore, it is suggested to refrain from using spray deodorants, hairspray, and any other aerosol products when your hearing aid is in use. Extended exposure to these products can lead to harm to the device, as the moisture and chemicals they contain can build up and lead to permanent deterioration over time. Apply these products before mounting your hearing aid to decrease exposure.
Manage earwax buildup
Though earwax plays a protective role by keeping dust, insects, and other foreign particles out of your ears, it can present a problem for your hearing aid. The accumulation of earwax in the device can lead to it not functioning properly. For proper maintenance, make an appointment with your audiologist or doctor to assess the amount of earwax accumulation and develop an individualized cleaning plan tailored to your ears and hearing device.
Cleaning your ears safely is crucial– never insert foreign objects into your ear canal. Instead, allow warm water to stream into your ears in the course of showers, which can help disperse and wash away some of the wax. Routine professional ear cleaning is also recommended. While this may seem inconvenient, it’s far less problematic than dealing with 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’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.
Easy methods to ensure lasting reliability
Once you get used to using your hearing aids, they become a critical aspect of your day-to-day routine, making it hard to envision life without them. By taking a few simple safety measures, you can prevent damage and ensure your hearing aids remain reliable for years to come. Routine upkeep, appropriate storage, and careful handling are essential to keeping your hearing aids in optimal condition, allowing you to continue enjoying the enhanced quality of life they provide.
Schedule an appointment if you’re experiencing problems with your hearing aid or need to schedule a regular maintenance appointment.
