After you have become familiar with wearing your hearing aid, it becomes a vital element of your daily schedule. The thought 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 best care for your hearing aid
Being aware of what can damage your hearing aid and learning how to maintain it properly will help you maintain its functionality and ensure it continues to improve your quality of life.
Proper battery maintenance
Your hearing aid’s functionality is heavily dependent on its battery. As a result, picking the correct batteries for your device is crucial. Consult with your audiologist to find out which battery type is most suitable for your specific hearing aid model.
Handling the batteries with care is just as important. The natural oils, dirt, and moisture on your skin can transfer to the batteries and cause contamination, compromising their performance and potentially causing damage.
Always wash your hands before changing the battery, and be certain they are thoroughly dried to avoid introducing moisture into the device.
Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines diligently, especially regarding battery care. To prolong the battery life of your hearing aid, make sure to power it down when not using it and keep it stored in a safe , dry location. Knowing the average lifespan of a battery can also be very helpful.
Note on your calendar when you change the battery, so you can prepare for when it needs to be replaced. To avoid being stuck without power, always carry a spare battery with you, particularly when you’re away from home.
Prevent moisture damage
Hearing aids, being technological devices, are vulnerable to moisture. Even minor exposure can lead to damage or a total breakdown of the device. To safeguard your hearing aid, consider investing in 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.
To safeguard your hearing aid from moisture damage, it’s a smart idea to take it out before taking part in activities that make you sweat heavily. Having said that, speak with your hearing specialist first, as removing your hearing aid during exercise, particularly outdoors, might pose safety concerns by reducing your ability to hear external sounds like traffic or alarms. If necessary, opt for indoor exercise where it’s safer to be without your hearing aid, and always remember to take out your device before showering or going for a swim.
Furthermore, it is suggested 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 accumulate on the device, leading to long-term damage. Use these products before mounting your hearing aid to minimize exposure.
Avoid excessive ear wax accumulation
Though earwax plays a protective role by keeping dust, insects, and other foreign particles out of your ears, it can pose a problem for your hearing aid. The buildup of earwax in the device can result in it not working properly. For proper maintenance, schedule an appointment with your audiologist or doctor to assess the amount of earwax build-up and develop a personalized cleaning plan tailored to your ears and hearing device.
It is necessary to clean your ears carefully and never put anything foreign into your ear canal. Instead of that, let warm water enter your ears while you are showering. This can assist in losening up and removing some of the earwax. It is also recommended to have your ears cleaned regularly by a professional. While this may seem inconvenient, it’s far less problematic 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.
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 facet of your day-to-day routine, making it difficult to picture life without them. By implementing a few simple safety measures, you can safeguard your hearing aids from harm and preserve their reliability over the long term. Prioritize routine upkeep, store them safely, and handle them with care, ensuring you can continue to reap the benefits of enhanced communication and a more satisfying lifestyle.
If you are having difficulties with your hearing aid or need to book a routine maintenance appointment, please arrange for a visit.