After you have become accustomed to using your hearing aid, it becomes an essential element of your day-to-day routine. The prospect of a breakdown can be distressing, as it causes not only a disruption to everyday life, but also a significant monetary burden in the form of repair or replacement costs.
How to best maintain your hearing aid
Understanding 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 upkeep
The performance of your hearing aid relies considerably on its battery. Therefore, 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 equally 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 changing the battery, and be certain they are completely dried to prevent introducing moisture into the device.
Adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines diligently, especially concerning battery care. Turn off your hearing aid when it’s not being used to protect battery life and store it in a safe, dry place. Familiarizing yourself with the battery’s normal lifespan is also worthwhile.
Make a note on your calendar each time you change the battery, so you can estimate when it will require changing again. It’s crucial to have a spare battery with you at all times, specifically when you are not at home, in order to avoid being left without power unexpectedly.
Protect against moisture
As electronic devices, hearing aids are vulnerable to moisture. Even brief contact can bring about harm or complete failure of the device. Protect 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 problems.
To safeguard your hearing aid from moisture damage, it’s a good idea to take it out before taking part in activities that make you sweat heavily. Consult taking off your hearing aid to workout, especially outside, with your hearing specialist, as doing so may compromise your safety by reducing your recognition of essential 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.
Moreover, it is suggested 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 consist of can build up and result in irreversible deterioration over time. In order to minimize exposure, use these kinds of products before putting in your hearing aids.
Control earwax buildup
While earwax serves as a natural barrier, shielding your ears from debris, dirt, and small insects, it can also interfere with the proper performance of your hearing aid. Earwax can accumulate in the device, causing it to malfunction. For correct maintenance, schedule an appointment with your audiologist or doctor to assess the amount of earwax accumulation and develop a personalized cleaning plan suited to your ears and hearing device.
Cleaning your ears safely is vital– never insert any objects into your ear canal. Alternatively, allow warm water to stream into your ears in the course of showers, which can help break up and wash away some of the wax. Routine professional ear cleaning is also recommended. Even though this may be a bit of a hassle, it’s a minor concern compared to the frustration and problems that can arise from a hearing aid that’s not working properly due to a buildup of earwax.
When it comes to cleaning your hearing aid, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Different types of hearing aids may require different cleaning techniques, and using the wrong method could cause harm to 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.
Basic steps for long-term reliability
After you’ve become familiar with wearing your hearing aids, they become an indispensable part of your life, making it hard to conceive of managing without them. By using a few easy safety measures, you can prevent damage and ensure your hearing aids remain dependable for years to come. Prioritize regular upkeep, store them properly, and handle them with care, ensuring you can continue to reap the benefits of improved communication and a more satisfying lifestyle.
If you are having problems with your hearing aid or need to schedule a routine maintenance appointment, please arrange for a visit.