Once you’ve adapted to life with your hearing aid, it becomes an important part of your day-to-day regimen. The idea of it breaking down can be intimidating, not only because of the hassle but also thanks to the potential cost of repairs or replacements.
How to best maintain your hearing aid
Being aware of what can damage your hearing aid and learning how to maintain it correctly will help you maintain its functionality and ensure it continues to improve your quality of life.
Proper battery care
The effectiveness of your hearing aid relies considerably on its battery. As a result, selecting the correct batteries for your hearing aid is crucial. Talk to your hearing specialist to determine the best battery type for your model.
It is equally important to handle the batteries with care. The natural oils, dirt, and moisture on your skin can transfer to the batteries and cause contamination, compromising their performance and potentially leading to damage.
Prior to switching out the battery, make sure your hands are clean and totally dry to keep any moisture from getting into the device.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions diligently, especially concerning 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 secure, dry location. Familiarizing yourself with the battery’s normal lifespan is also helpful.
Mark on your calendar when you replace the battery, so you can prepare for when it needs to be replaced. It’s crucial to have a fresh battery with you at all times, specifically when you are not at home, in order to prevent being left without power all of a sudden.
Prevent moisture damage
Hearing aids, being technological devices, are vulnerable to moisture. Even brief contact can bring about harm or complete failure of the device. To safeguard your hearing aid, consider purchasing a dehumidifier designed specifically for hearing aids. This device supplies a safe and dry environment for your hearing aid when not in use, safeguarding it from damage related to unwanted moisture.
To protect your hearing aid from moisture damage, it’s a good idea to take it out before participating in activities that make you perspire heavily. Consult taking off your hearing aid to exercise, particularly outdoors, with your hearing specialist, as doing so may jeopardize your safety by reducing your recognition of important auditory cues, such as traffic noises or warning alarms. If possible, opt to work out indoors where it is safer to remove your hearing aid, and make sure to remove your device before showering or swimming.
Additionally, avoid using hairspray, spray deodorants, and other aerosol items while using your hearing aid. These products consist of moisture and chemicals that can build up on the device, leading to long-term damage. Apply these products before putting on your hearing aid to minimize exposure.
Manage earwax buildup
Though earwax plays a protective role by keeping dust, insects, and other foreign particles out of your ears, it can present a challenge for your hearing aid. The buildup of earwax in the device can result in it not working correctly. For proper maintenance, schedule an appointment with your audiologist or doctor to evaluate the amount of earwax build-up and develop an individualized cleaning plan tailored to your ears and hearing device.
Cleaning your ears safely is vital– never insert any objects into your ear canal. As opposed to that, let warm water enter your ears while you shower. This can assist in breaking down and removing some of the earwax. It is also recommended to have your ears cleaned regularly by a professional. While this might seem inconvenient, it’s much less problematic than dealing with a malfunctioning hearing aid dued to excessive 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.
Simple methods to ensure lasting dependability
After you’ve grown accustomed to wearing your hearing aids, they become an indispensable part of your life, making it hard to envision managing without them. By taking a few basic precautions, you can avoid damage and ensure your hearing aids remain dependable for years to come. 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.
If you are having troubles with your hearing aid or need to schedule a routine maintenance appointment, please arrange for a visit.