Once you’ve adapted to life with your hearing aid, it becomes an important part of your day-to-day regimen. The thought of it breaking down can be daunting, not just because of the inconvenience but also because of the potential cost of repairs or replacements.
How to properly maintain your hearing aid
Understanding what can damage your hearing aid and knowing how to care for it correctly will help you maintain its performance and ensure it continues to improve your quality of life.
Proper battery maintenance
The performance of your hearing aid relies considerably on its battery. As a result, selecting the correct batteries for your device is essential. Speak with your hearing specialist to figure out the best battery type for your model.
Handling the batteries with care is just as important. Oils, dirt, and moisture from your hands can contaminate the batteries, causing potential damage.
Always clean your hands before swapping out the battery, and make sure they are completely dried to avoid introducing moisture into the device.
Adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions diligently, especially concerning battery care. Turn off your hearing aid when it’s not being used to protect battery life and store it in a secure , dry place. Familiarizing yourself with the battery’s typical lifespan is also beneficial.
Make a note on your calendar each time you change the battery, so you can estimate 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
Hearing aids, being electronic devices, are vulnerable to moisture. Even nominal exposure can lead to damage or a complete malfunction of the device. To protect your hearing aid, think about purchasing a dehumidifier developed specifically for hearing aids. This device can securely store your hearing aid when it’s not being used, keeping it dry and free from moisture-related problems.
To safeguard your hearing aid from moisture damage, it’s a smart plan to take it out before taking part in activities that make you sweat heavily. Consult taking off your hearing aid to workout, particularly outdoors, with your hearing specialist, as doing so could compromise your safety by reducing your recognition of important auditory cues, including traffic noises or warning alarms. If possible, opt to exercise inside where it is safer to take out your hearing aid, and make sure to remove your device before bathing or swimming.
Furthermore, it is recommended to avoid using spray deodorants, hairspray, and any other aerosol products when your hearing aid is in use. These products consist of moisture and chemicals that can accumulate on the device, leading to long-term damage. Apply these products before putting on your hearing aid to minimize exposure.
Avoid excessive ear wax accumulation
Although earwax plays a protective role by keeping dust, insects, and other foreign debris out of your ears, it can pose a challenge for your hearing aid. The accumulation of earwax in the device can lead to it not working properly. To manage this, have your ears examined by your hearing specialist or doctor 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 vital– never insert foreign objects into your ear canal. Alternatively, allow warm water to flow 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 regularly by a professional. Even though this may be a bit of a hassle, it’s a minor concern compared to the disappointment and problems that can occur from a hearing aid that’s not working effectively as a result of a buildup of 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 dependability
Once you get used to wearing your hearing aids, they become a crucial facet of your daily routine, making it hard to envision life without them. By using a few easy precautions, you can prevent damage and ensure your hearing aids continue to be dependable for years to come. Routine upkeep, appropriate storage, and careful handling are essential to keeping your hearing aids in optimum condition, allowing you to continue enjoying the enhanced quality of life they provide.
If you are having troubles with your hearing aid or need to schedule a routine maintenance appointment, please arrange for a visit.