Once you’ve adjusted to life with your hearing aid, it becomes an indispensable part of your daily routine. The idea of it breaking down can be challenging, not only because of the inconvenience but also thanks to the prospective expense of repairs or replacements.
Tips for maintaining and maximizing your hearing aid functionality
Understanding what can damage your hearing aid and knowing how to care for it properly will help you maintain its performance and ensure it continues to enrich your quality of life.
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 figure out the best battery variety for your model.
It is equally significant to handle the batteries carefully. The natural oils, dirt, and moisture on your skin can transfer to the batteries and result in contamination, compromising their functionality and potentially leading to damage.
Before replacing the battery, ensure your hands are clean and totally dry to keep any moisture from getting into the device.
Stick directly to the manufacturer’s directions, especially regarding battery maintenance. To extend the battery life of your hearing aid, be certain to power it off when not using it and keep it stored in a safe , dry spot. Familiarizing yourself with the battery’s typical lifespan is also helpful.
Make a note on your calendar each time you change the battery, so you can predict when it will need changing again. It’s essential to have a fresh battery with you at all times, particularly when you are not at home, in order to prevent being stuck without power unexpectedly.
Minimize the risk of 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 purchasing a dehumidifier developed specifically for hearing aids. This unit provides a safe and dry environment for your hearing aid when not in use, protecting it from damage related to excessive moisture.
To protect your hearing aid from water damage, it’s a good plan to take it out before taking part in activities that make you perspire heavily. Consult taking off your hearing aid to workout, particularly outside, with your hearing specialist, as doing so may compromise your safety by decreasing your awareness of essential 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 showering or swimming.
Also, avoid utilizing hairspray, spray deodorants, and other aerosol items while wearing your hearing aid. These products contain moisture and chemicals that can accumulate on the device, causing long-term damage. Use these products before putting on your hearing aid to reduce 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 accumulation of earwax in the device can result in it not working properly. For correct maintenance, make an appointment with your audiologist or doctor to assess the amount of earwax accumulation and develop a customized cleaning plan suited to your ears and hearing device.
Cleaning your ears safely is essential– never insert any objects into your ear canal. Instead of that, let warm water enter your ears while you shower. This can assist in breaking down and eliminating some of the earwax. It is also recommended to have your ears cleaned routinely 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.
Various kinds of hearing aids may need specific cleaning methods, and using an incorrect technique might damage 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.
Simple methods to ensure lasting dependability
After you’ve grown familiar with wearing your hearing aids, they become an integral part of your life, making it hard to conceive of managing without them. By taking a few basic precautions, you can prevent damage and ensure your hearing aids remain dependable for years to come. Prioritize routine maintenance, store them safely, and handle them with care, ensuring you can continue to reap the benefits of improved communication and a more fulfilling lifestyle.
Make an appointment if you’re experiencing issues with your hearing aid or need to set up a regular maintenance appointment.