After you have become familiar with wearing your hearing aid, it becomes a critical element of your daily routine. The idea of it malfunctioning can be challenging, not only because of the hassle but also thanks to the potential expense of repairs or replacements.
How to properly care for your hearing aid
Recognizing what can damage your hearing aid and knowing how to maintain it correctly will help you maintain its functionality and ensure it continues to enhance your quality of life.
Proper battery maintenance
Your hearing aid’s performance is heavily dependent on its battery. Hence, it is important to pick the appropriate batteries for your device. 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. The natural oils, dirt, and moisture on your skin can transfer to the batteries and cause contamination, compromising their functionality and potentially causing damage.
Always wash your hands before changing the battery, and be certain they are completely dried to prevent introducing moisture into the device.
Adhere closely to the manufacturer’s instructions, particularly regarding battery maintenance. To increase the battery life of your hearing aid, be certain to power it off when not using it and keep it stored in a safe , dry spot. Familiarizing yourself with the battery’s typical lifespan is also beneficial.
Note on your calendar when you replace the battery, so you can anticipate when it needs to be replaced. To avoid being caught without power, always carry a spare battery with you, particularly when you’re away from home.
Guard against moisture
Hearing aids, being technological devices, are vulnerable to moisture. Even brief contact can bring about harm or complete failure of the device. Safeguard your hearing aid’s functionality by purchasing a specialized drying device to maintain its functionality by removing moisture. This unit provides a secure and dry environment for your hearing aid when not in use, safeguarding it from damage related to excessive moisture.
To protect your hearing aid from water damage, it’s a good idea to take it out before taking part in activities that make you perspire heavily. Consult taking off your hearing aid to exercise, particularly outdoors, with your hearing specialist, as doing so may jeopardize your safety by decreasing your recognition of important auditory cues, including traffic noises or warning 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 recommended to refrain from using spray deodorants, hairspray, and any other aerosol products when your hearing aid is in your ear. Extended exposure to these products can cause harm to the device, as the moisture and chemicals they contain can accumulate and lead to permanent deterioration over time. Apply these products before putting on your hearing aid to reduce exposure.
Avoid excessive ear wax accumulation
While earwax serves as a natural barrier, shielding your ears from debris, dirt, and tiny insects, it can also hamper the effective performance of your hearing aid. Earwax can accumulate in the device, causing it to malfunction. To control this, have your ears checked out by your hearing specialist or doctor to assess the level of earwax buildup and create an appropriate cleaning routine for both your ears and your hearing aid.
It is necessary to clean your ears carefully and never put anything foreign into your ear canal. Instead of that, let warm water go into your ears while you are showering. This can assist 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 minor concern in comparison to the frustration and complications that can occur from a hearing aid that’s not working properly as a result of 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 are uncertain about how to clean your hearing aid correctly, it is recommended to seek guidance from your hearing specialist or hearing aid manufacturer.
Basic steps for long-term dependability
After you’ve grown familiar with wearing your hearing aids, they become an essential part of your life, making it hard to conceive of managing without having them. By using a few easy precautions, you can avoid damage and ensure your hearing aids continue to be dependable for years to come. 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 fulfilling lifestyle.
If you are having difficulties with your hearing aid or need to schedule a routine maintenance appointment, please arrange for a visit.