Once you’ve adapted to life with your hearing aid, it becomes an indispensable part of your day-to-day regimen. The prospect of a breakdown can be worrysome, as it causes not only a disruption to everyday life, but also a substantial financial burden in the form of repair or replacement expenses.
Tips for maintaining and maximizing your hearing aid performance
Understanding what can damage your hearing aid and knowing how to maintain it effectively will help you maintain its functionality and ensure it continues to improve your quality of life.
Practical care of batteries
Your hearing aid’s performance is heavily dependent on its battery. Hence, it is essential to select the right batteries for your device. Consult with your hearing specialist to determine the ideal battery type 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 cause contamination, compromising their performance and potentially causing damage.
Before replacing the battery, make sure your hands are clean and totally dry to keep any moisture from entering the device.
Adhere closely to the manufacturer’s directions, particularly regarding battery upkeep. To prolong the battery life of your hearing aid, be certain to power it off when not wearing it and keep it stored in a secure, dry location. Knowing the typical lifespan of a battery can also be very helpful.
Note on your calendar when you change the battery, so you can anticipate when it needs to be replaced. It’s crucial to have a fresh battery with you at all times, particularly when you are not at home, in order to avoid being left without power unexpectedly.
Protect against moisture
Hearing aids, being technological devices, are susceptible to moisture. Even slight contact can cause harm or complete failure of the device. Safeguard your hearing aid’s functionality by purchasing a specialized drying device to preserve its functionality by eliminating moisture. This unit supplies a secure and dry atmosphere for your hearing aid when not in use, protecting it from damage caused by unwanted moisture.
When participating in physical activities that cause sweating, you may think about taking out your hearing aid to stop moisture damage. Consult taking off your hearing aid to exercise, especially outside, with your hearing specialist, as doing so may jeopardize your safety by reducing your recognition of essential auditory cues, including traffic noises or warning alarms. If necessary, go with indoor exercise where it’s safer to be without your hearing aid, and always remember to remove your device before showering or going for a swim.
Furthermore, 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 contain can build up and lead to permanent deterioration over time. In order to reduce exposure, use these types of products before putting in your hearing aids.
Manage earwax buildup
Although earwax plays a defensive role by keeping dust, insects, and other foreign debris 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. To manage this, have your ears examined by your hearing specialist or doctor to evaluate the level of earwax buildup and create an appropriate cleaning routine for both your ears and your hearing aid.
It is necessary to clean your ears safely and never put anything foreign into your ear canal. Alternatively, allow warm water to flow into your ears during showers, which can help break up and wash away some of the wax. Regular professional ear cleaning is also recommended. While this might seem inconvenient, it’s significantly less troublesome than dealing with 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.
Basic steps for continued reliability
Once you get used to using your hearing aids, they become a critical facet of your daily routine, making it difficult to picture life without them. By taking a few simple safety measures, you can avoid damage and ensure your hearing aids remain dependable for years to come. Routine upkeep, proper storage, and careful handling are key to keeping your hearing aids in optimal condition, allowing you to continue enjoying the improved quality of life they supply.
Schedule an appointment if you’re experiencing issues with your hearing aid or need to schedule a regular maintenance appointment.
