Once you’ve adapted to life with your hearing aid, it becomes an indispensable part of your everyday regimen. The thought of it malfunctioning can be daunting, not only because of the hassle but also because of the prospective expense of repairs or replacements.
Tips for caring for and optimizing your hearing aid functionality
By recognizing the prospective threats that can damage your hearing aid and taking steps to care for it properly, you can preserve its performance and continue to appreciate the increased quality of life it offers.
Proper battery care
Your hearing aid’s functionality is highly dependent on its battery. Thus, it is essential to choose the right batteries for your device. Consult with your audiologist to find out which battery type is most suitable for your specific hearing aid model.
Handling the batteries with care is equally important. The natural oils, dirt, and moisture on your skin can pass on to the batteries and result in contamination, jeopardizing their performance and potentially causing damage.
Always wash your hands before swapping out the battery, and make sure they are completely dried to avoid introducing moisture into the device.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions meticulously, particularly regarding battery care. To extend the battery life of your hearing aid, be certain to power it off when not wearing it and keep it stored in a safe , dry location. Knowing the average lifespan of a battery can also be quite helpful.
Note on your calendar when you change the battery, so you can anticipate when it needs to be switched out. It’s essential to have a fresh battery with you at all times, specifically when you are not at home, in order to avoid being left without power unexpectedly.
Minimize the risk of moisture damage
As electronic technology, hearing aids are vulnerable to moisture. Even nominal exposure can lead to damage or a complete malfunction of the device. To protect your hearing aid, think about investing in a dehumidifier designed specifically for hearing aids. This device supplies a secure 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 trigger sweating, you may consider removing your hearing aid to stop moisture damage. Having said that, consult your hearing specialist first, as taking out your hearing aid during exercise, especially outdoors, might pose safety concerns by reducing your ability to hear environmental sounds like traffic or alarms. If possible, opt to exercise indoors where it is safer to take out your hearing aid, and make sure to remove your device before bathing or swimming.
Furthermore, it is recommended to avoid using spray deodorants, hairspray, and any other aerosol products when your hearing aid is in your ear. These products contain moisture and chemicals that can build up on the device, resulting in long-term damage. Use these products before mounting your hearing aid to reduce exposure.
Avoid excessive ear wax accumulation
Although earwax plays a protective role by keeping dust, insects, and other foreign particles out of your ears, it can pose a challenge for your hearing aid. Earwax can build up in the device, causing it to malfunction. To manage this, have your ears examined by your hearing specialist or physician to assess the level of earwax buildup and create an appropriate cleaning routine for both your ears and your hearing aid.
Cleaning your ears safely is vital– never insert any objects into your ear canal. Instead of that, let warm water go into your ears while you are showering. This can assist in losening up and removing some of the earwax. It is also suggested to have your ears cleaned regularly by a professional. While this may seem inconvenient, it’s significantly 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.
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.
Simple steps for long-term dependability
Once you get used to using your hearing aids, they become a crucial facet of your daily routine, making it hard to picture life without them. By using a few easy safety measures, you can avoid damage and ensure your hearing aids continue to be reliable for years to come. Prioritize regular maintenance, store them safely, and handle them with care, ensuring you can continue to reap the benefits of enhanced communication and a more fulfilling lifestyle.
If you are having problems with your hearing aid or need to book a routine maintenance appointment, please arrange for a visit.