After you have become familiar with using your hearing aid, it becomes an essential element of your daily schedule. The idea of it malfunctioning can be intimidating, not only because of the inconvenience but also due to the potential expense of repairs or replacements.
How to properly take care of your hearing aid
By understanding the potential hazards that can harm your hearing aid and taking steps to care for it properly, you can preserve its effectiveness and continue to enjoy the improved quality of life it provides.
Effective care of batteries
Your hearing aid’s performance is highly dependent on its battery. Thus, it is essential to select the appropriate batteries for your device. Talk to your hearing specialist to determine the ideal battery type for your model.
Handling the batteries with care is equally important. Oils, dirt, and moisture from your hands can contaminate the batteries, leading to potential damage.
Prior to switching out the battery, ensure your hands are clean and totally dry to keep any moisture from getting into the device.
Adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions diligently, particularly concerning battery care. To increase the battery life of your hearing aid, be certain to power it off when not wearing it and keep it stored in a safe , dry spot. Familiarizing yourself with the battery’s normal lifespan is also helpful.
Note on your calendar when you replace the battery, so you can prepare for when it needs to be replaced. It’s important to have a spare battery with you at all times, particularly when you are not at home, in order to avoid being left without power unexpectedly.
Minimize the risk of moisture damage
As electronic technology, hearing aids are vulnerable to moisture. Even minimal exposure can lead to damage or a total malfunction of the device. Safeguard your hearing aid’s performance by purchasing a specialized drying device to preserve its functionality by eliminating moisture. 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 water damage, it’s a smart plan to take it out before participating in activities that make you sweat 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 awareness of important auditory cues, such as traffic noises or warning alarms. If possible, opt to exercise indoors where it is safer to remove your hearing aid, and make sure to remove your device before bathing 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. These products contain moisture and chemicals that can build up on the device, leading to long-term damage. In order to reduce exposure, use these types of products before putting in your hearing aids.
Avoid excessive ear wax accumulation
Although 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. The buildup of earwax in the device can lead to it not working properly. For proper maintenance, make 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 safely and never put anything foreign into your ear canal. Alternatively, allow warm water to stream into your ears during 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 far less troublesome than dealing with a malfunctioning hearing aid caused by 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.
Basic steps for continued reliability
After you’ve grown familiar with wearing your hearing aids, they become an indispensable part of your life, making it difficult to envision managing without them. By taking a few easy safety measures, you can avoid damage and ensure your hearing aids remain reliable for years to come. Routine upkeep, proper storage, and cautious handling are key to keeping your hearing aids in optimal condition, allowing you to keep enjoying the improved quality of life they supply.
Schedule an appointment if you’re experiencing issues with your hearing aid or need to set up a regular maintenance appointment.