After you have become familiar with using your hearing aid, it becomes an essential element of your day-to-day routine. The prospect of a malfunction can be distressing, as it causes not only a disruption to daily life, but also a significant financial burden in the form of repair or replacement costs.
Tips for caring for and optimizing your hearing aid performance
By being aware of the prospective hazards that can damage your hearing aid and taking steps to care for it properly, you can preserve its effectiveness and continue to appreciate the improved quality of life it provides.
Proper battery maintenance
The performance of your hearing aid depends considerably on its battery. Therefore, selecting the correct batteries for your device is essential. Consult with your hearing specialist to figure out the best battery variety for your model.
Handling the batteries with care is equally important. Oils, dirt, and moisture from your hands can contaminate the batteries, causing potential damage.
Before switching out the battery, ensure your hands are clean and thoroughly dry to keep any moisture from getting into the device.
Adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions diligently, especially concerning battery care. To extend the battery life of your hearing aid, be certain to power it down when not using it and keep it stored in a secure, dry spot. Knowing the typical lifespan of a battery can also be very handy.
Mark on your calendar when you replace 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.
Minimize the risk of moisture damage
As electronic devices, hearing aids are susceptible to moisture. Even minimal exposure can result in damage or a total malfunction of the device. To safeguard your hearing aid, consider purchasing a dehumidifier developed specifically for hearing aids. This device can safely store your hearing aid when it’s not being used, keeping it dry and free from moisture-related problems.
When participating in physical activities that cause sweating, you might consider taking out your hearing aid to prevent moisture damage. Having said that, speak with your hearing specialist first, as removing your hearing aid during exercise, particularly outdoors, might pose safety concerns by limiting your ability to hear environmental 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 remove your device before showering or swimming.
Furthermore, it is recommended to avoid using spray deodorants, hairspray, and any other aerosol products when your hearing aid is in use. Extended exposure to these products can cause harm to the device, as the moisture and chemicals they contain can build up and lead to lasting deterioration over time. In order to reduce exposure, use these kinds of products before putting in your hearing aids.
Avoid excessive ear wax accumulation
Although earwax serves as a natural barrier, protecting your ears from debris, dirt, and tiny insects, it can also interfere with the effective functioning of your hearing aid. Earwax can build up in the device, causing it to breakdown. For proper maintenance, schedule an appointment with your audiologist or doctor to evaluate the amount of earwax build-up and develop a personalized cleaning plan suited to your ears and hearing device.
Cleaning your ears safely is crucial– never insert any objects into your ear canal. As opposed to that, let warm water enter your ears while you are showering. This can assist in breaking down and eliminating some of the earwax. Routine professional ear cleaning is also advisable. Even though this may be a bit of a hassle, it’s a minor problem compared to the frustration and complications that can occur from a hearing aid that’s not functioning properly as a result of a buildup of 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 steps for continued reliability
After you’ve become accustomed to wearing your hearing aids, they become an essential part of your life, making it difficult to envision managing without having them. By implementing a few basic safety measures, you can safeguard your hearing aids from damage and maintain their reliability over the long run. Prioritize routine maintenance, store them properly, and handle them with care, ensuring you can continue to reap the benefits of improved communication and a more satisfying lifestyle.
Schedule an appointment if you’re experiencing problems with your hearing aid or need to schedule a regular maintenance appointment.