After you have become familiar with using your hearing aid, it becomes a crucial element of your everyday routine. The likelihood of a breakdown can be distressing, as it causes not just a disruption to daily life, but also a substantial monetary burden in the form of repair or replacement expenses.
Tips for maintaining and maximizing your hearing aid performance
By understanding the potential hazards that can damage your hearing aid and taking measures to care for it correctly, you can preserve its performance and continue to appreciate the increased quality of life it provides.
Proper battery maintenance
The performance of your hearing aid relies substantially on its battery. As a result, picking the correct batteries for your hearing aid is essential. Discuss 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. Oils, dirt, and moisture from your hands can contaminate the batteries, causing potential damage.
Prior to replacing the battery, make sure your hands are clean and thoroughly dry to keep any moisture from entering the device.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions meticulously, particularly concerning battery care. To prolong the battery life of your hearing aid, be certain to power it off when not using it and keep it stored in a secure, dry location. Familiarizing yourself with the battery’s normal lifespan is also worthwhile.
Mark on your calendar when you replace the battery, so you can anticipate when it needs to be replaced. To avoid being caught without power, always carry a spare battery with you, particularly when you’re away from home.
Guard against moisture
As electronic technology, hearing aids are susceptible to moisture. Even slight contact can bring about harm or complete failure of the device. To protect your hearing aid, consider investing in a dehumidifier developed specifically for hearing aids. This device provides a safe and dry environment for your hearing aid when not in use, safeguarding it from damage caused by excessive moisture.
When participating in physical activities that cause sweating, you may think about taking out your hearing aid to prevent moisture damage. Consult taking off your hearing aid to exercise, especially outside, with your hearing specialist, as doing so could jeopardize your safety by reducing your recognition of important auditory cues, including traffic noises or warning alarms. If possible, choose to exercise indoors where it is safer to take out your hearing aid, and make sure to remove your device before showering or swimming.
Additionally, avoid utilizing hairspray, spray deodorants, and other aerosol products while using your hearing aid. 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 permanent deterioration over time. Apply these products before putting on your hearing aid to minimize exposure.
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 functioning of your hearing aid. Earwax can build up in the device, causing it to fail. For correct maintenance, schedule an appointment with your audiologist or doctor to evaluate the amount of earwax accumulation and develop a customized cleaning plan tailored to your ears and hearing device.
Cleaning your ears safely is essential– never insert any objects into your ear canal. Alternatively, allow warm water to flow into your ears in the course of showers, which can help disperse and wash away some of the wax. Routine professional ear cleaning is also advisable. While this may seem inconvenient, it’s much less problematic than managing a malfunctioning hearing aid dued to 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.
Easy techniques to ensure lasting dependability
After you’ve become accustomed to wearing your hearing aids, they become an indispensable part of your life, making it hard to conceive of managing without them. By taking a few easy safety measures, you can avoid damage and ensure your hearing aids remain reliable for years to come. Prioritize routine upkeep, store them properly, and handle them with care, ensuring you can continue to reap the benefits of enhanced communication and a more fulfilling lifestyle.
Make an appointment if you’re experiencing issues with your hearing aid or need to schedule a regular maintenance appointment.