Once you’ve adapted to life with your hearing aid, it becomes an important part of your everyday regimen. The thought of it malfunctioning can be challenging, not only because of the hassle but also due to the potential cost of repairs or replacements.
How to best take care of your hearing aid
Recognizing what can damage your hearing aid and learning how to care for it properly will help you maintain its functionality and ensure it continues to enhance your quality of life.
Proper battery care
The effectiveness of your hearing aid depends substantially on its battery. Hence, it is essential to select the right batteries for your device. Speak with your hearing specialist to figure out the best battery type for your model.
It is equally significant to handle the batteries with care. The natural oils, dirt, and moisture on your skin can pass on to the batteries and cause contamination, compromising their performance and potentially leading to damage.
Before switching out the battery, ensure your hands are clean and totally dry to prevent any moisture from entering the device.
Stick closely to the manufacturer’s instructions, particularly regarding battery maintenance. To prolong the battery life of your hearing aid, be certain to power it off when not wearing it and keep it stored in a secure, dry location. Knowing the typical lifespan of a battery can also be really helpful.
Mark on your calendar when you replace the battery, so you can prepare for when it needs to be replaced. It’s essential to have a fresh battery with you at all times, specifically when you are not at home, in order to prevent being stuck without power all of a sudden.
Prevent moisture damage
As electronic devices, hearing aids are susceptible to moisture. Even minor exposure can lead to damage or a total breakdown of the device. Safeguard your hearing aid’s functionality by purchasing a specialized drying device to preserve its functionality by removing moisture. This device can securely store your hearing aid when it’s not in use, keeping it dry and free from moisture-related issues.
When engaging in physical activities that cause sweating, you may think about removing your hearing aid to prevent moisture damage. Having said that, speak with your hearing specialist first, as taking out your hearing aid during exercise, particularly outdoors, may pose safety risks by reducing your ability to hear environmental sounds like traffic or alarms. If possible, choose to work out 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 refrain from using spray deodorants, hairspray, and any other aerosol products when your hearing aid is in your ear. Prolonged exposure to these products can lead to harm to the device, as the moisture and chemicals they consist of can accumulate and lead to permanent degredation over time. Apply these products before putting on your hearing aid to reduce exposure.
Control earwax buildup
While earwax serves as a natural shield, protecting your ears from debris, dirt, and tiny insects, it can also interfere with the proper functioning of your hearing aid. The accumulation of earwax in the device can result in it not functioning correctly. To manage this, have your ears checked out by your hearing specialist or physician to evaluate the level of earwax buildup and create an appropriate cleaning routine for both your ears and your hearing aid.
It is important to clean your ears carefully 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 flush 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 much less troublesome than managing a malfunctioning hearing aid caused by 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 are uncertain about how to clean your hearing aid correctly, it is recommended to seek guidance from your hearing specialist or hearing aid manufacturer.
Simple steps for long-term dependability
Once you get used to wearing your hearing aids, they become a crucial facet of your daily routine, making it hard to picture life without them. By taking a few basic precautions, you can prevent damage and ensure your hearing aids remain dependable for years to come. Regular maintenance, proper storage, and cautious handling are essential to keeping your hearing aids in optimum condition, allowing you to continue 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.