After you have become accustomed to wearing your hearing aid, it becomes a vital element of your day-to-day routine. The likelihood of a malfunction can be distressing, as it causes not only a disruption to daily life, but also a significant monetary burden in the form of repair or replacement costs.
Tips for caring for and maximizing your hearing aid functionality
By being aware of the prospective hazards that can harm your hearing aid and taking measures to maintain it correctly, you can protect its performance and continue to appreciate the improved quality of life it offers.
Proper battery care
Your hearing aid’s performance is heavily dependent on its battery. As a result, picking the correct batteries for your hearing aid is crucial. Consult with your audiologist to find out which battery type is most suitable for your specific hearing aid model.
It is just as significant to handle the batteries carefully. Oils, dirt, and moisture from your hands can contaminate the batteries, leading to potential damage.
Always clean your hands before swapping out the battery, and be certain they are thoroughly dried to avoid introducing moisture into the device.
Adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines diligently, especially regarding battery care. Power off your hearing aid when it’s not in use to protect battery life and keep it in a safe, dry place. Familiarizing yourself with the battery’s typical lifespan is also beneficial.
Make a note on your calendar every time you change the battery, so you can predict when it will need changing again. It’s essential to have a spare battery with you at all times, particularly when you are not at home, in order to prevent being left without power unexpectedly.
Prevent moisture damage
As electronic technology, hearing aids are susceptible to moisture. Even minimal exposure can result in damage or a complete breakdown of the device. To protect your hearing aid, think about purchasing a dehumidifier developed specifically for hearing aids. This device can safely store your hearing aid when it’s not in use, keeping it dry and free from moisture-related issues.
When participating in physical activities that cause sweating, you might think about taking out your hearing aid to prevent moisture damage. Consult taking off your hearing aid to exercise, especially outside, with your hearing specialist, as doing so could compromise your safety by reducing your awareness of important auditory cues, such as traffic noises or warning alarms. If possible, choose to exercise inside 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 avoid 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 contain can build up and lead to irreversible deterioration over time. In order to reduce exposure, use these kinds of products before putting in your hearing aids.
Prevent excessive ear wax accumulation
Although earwax plays a defensive role by keeping dust, insects, and other foreign particles out of your ears, it can pose a problem for your hearing aid. Earwax can build up in the device, causing it to breakdown. 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 safely and never put anything foreign into your ear canal. As opposed to that, let warm water go into your ears while you are showering. This can assist in breaking down and eliminating some of the earwax. Regular professional ear cleaning is also advisable. While this might seem inconvenient, it’s far less troublesome 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.
Different types of hearing aids may require different cleaning techniques, and using the wrong method could cause harm to 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.
Easy methods to ensure lasting reliability
Once you get used to using your hearing aids, they become a critical aspect of your daily routine, making it hard to picture life without them. By taking a few easy safety measures, you can prevent damage and ensure your hearing aids continue to be dependable for years to come. Regular upkeep, appropriate storage, and careful handling are essential to keeping your hearing aids in optimum condition, allowing you to continue enjoying the improved quality of life they supply.
If you are having difficulties with your hearing aid or need to schedule a routine maintenance appointment, please arrange for a visit.
