After you have become accustomed to wearing your hearing aid, it becomes an important element of your daily schedule. The thought of it breaking down can be challenging, not only because of the hassle but also thanks to the potential expense of repairs or replacements.
Tips for maintaining and optimizing your hearing aid functionality
By being aware of the potential hazards that can harm your hearing aid and taking steps to maintain it properly, you can protect its performance and continue to enjoy the improved quality of life it provides.
Effective upkeep of batteries
Your hearing aid’s functionality is highly dependent on its battery. Thus, it is important to choose the correct batteries for your device. Discuss with your audiologist to find out which battery type is most suitable for your specific hearing aid model. Handling the batteries with care is equally important. Oils, dirt, and moisture from your hands can contaminate the batteries, resulting in 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 instructions diligently, especially regarding battery care. Turn off your hearing aid when it’s not being used to preserve battery life and store it in a safe, dry place. Familiarizing yourself with the battery’s typical lifespan is also helpful. Mark on your calendar when you change the battery, so you can prepare for when it needs to be replaced. It’s important to have a fresh battery with you at all times, particularly when you are not at home, in order to prevent being left without power all of a sudden.
Prevent moisture damage
As electronic technology, hearing aids are susceptible to moisture. Even minor exposure can result in damage or a total breakdown of the device. To protect your hearing aid, think about investing in a dehumidifier developed specifically for hearing aids. This unit provides a safe and dry environment for your hearing aid when not in use, protecting it from damage caused by unwanted moisture.
When participating in physical activities that trigger sweating, you might think about removing your hearing aid to prevent moisture damage. Consult taking off your hearing aid to exercise, especially outdoors, with your hearing specialist, as doing so may compromise your safety by reducing your awareness of important auditory cues, including traffic noises or warning alarms. If possible, opt to exercise indoors where it is safer to take out your hearing aid, and make sure to remove your device before bathing or swimming.
Also, avoid using hairspray, spray deodorants, and other aerosol products while wearing your hearing aid. Prolonged exposure to these products can cause harm to the device, as the moisture and chemicals they consist of can accumulate and result in lasting degredation over time. Apply these products before putting on your hearing aid to reduce exposure.
Manage earwax buildup
While earwax serves as a natural barrier, protecting your ears from debris, dirt, and tiny insects, it can also interfere with the proper functioning of your hearing aid. Earwax can build up in the device, causing it to malfunction. For correct maintenance, schedule 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 important to clean your ears carefully and never put anything foreign into your ear canal. Instead, allow warm water to flow into your ears during showers, which can help disperse and flush away some of the wax. It is also suggested to have your ears cleaned regularly by a professional. While this may seem inconvenient, it’s much less problematic than dealing with a malfunctioning hearing aid dued to excessive 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 techniques to ensure lasting dependability
Once you get used to using your hearing aids, they become a crucial facet of your day-to-day routine, making it hard to envision life without them. By using a few easy precautions, you can avoid damage and ensure your hearing aids continue to be reliable for years to come. Regular maintenance, appropriate storage, and careful handling are key to keeping your hearing aids in optimum condition, allowing you to continue enjoying the enhanced quality of life they supply.
If you are having troubles with your hearing aid or need to book a routine maintenance appointment, please arrange for a visit.