Once you’ve adapted to life with your hearing aid, it becomes an indispensable part of your day-to-day regimen. The thought of it malfunctioning can be challenging, not only because of the hassle but also due to the potential cost of repairs or replacements.
How to properly maintain your hearing aid
By being aware of the potential hazards that can damage your hearing aid and taking measures to maintain it properly, you can preserve its effectiveness and continue to appreciate the improved quality of life it offers.
Proper battery upkeep
The effectiveness of your hearing aid depends greatly on its battery. Hence, it is essential to select the right batteries for your device. Talk to your hearing specialist to determine the best battery type for your model.
It is just as important to handle the batteries with care. The natural oils, dirt, and moisture on your skin can pass on to the batteries and cause contamination, jeopardizing their functionality and potentially causing damage.
Always wash your hands before changing the battery, and be certain they are thoroughly dried to avoid introducing moisture into the device.
Adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines diligently, especially regarding battery care. Turn off your hearing aid when it’s not being used to protect battery life and store it in a secure , dry place. Knowing the typical lifespan of a battery can also be quite helpful.
Note on your calendar when you replace the battery, so you can prepare for 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 devices, hearing aids 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 removing moisture. This device can safely store your hearing aid when it’s not being used, keeping it dry and free from moisture-related problems.
When engaging in physical activities that trigger sweating, you might think about removing your hearing aid to prevent moisture damage. Having said that, speak with your hearing specialist first, as removing your hearing aid during exercise, particularly outdoors, might pose safety risks by reducing your ability to hear environmental sounds like traffic or alarms. If possible, choose to exercise inside where it is safer to take out your hearing aid, and make sure to remove your device before bathing or swimming.
Additionally, avoid utilizing hairspray, spray deodorants, and other aerosol items while using your hearing aid. Extended exposure to these products can lead to harm to the device, as the moisture and chemicals they consist of can accumulate and result in lasting deterioration over time. Apply these products before mounting your hearing aid to reduce exposure.
Manage earwax buildup
Although earwax serves as a natural barrier, protecting your ears from debris, dirt, and tiny insects, it can also interfere with the effective performance of your hearing aid. The accumulation of earwax in the device can result in it not functioning properly. To control this, have your ears checked out 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. As opposed to that, let warm water go into your ears while you shower. This can assist in losening up and eliminating some of the earwax. Regular professional ear cleaning is also recommended. Though this may be a bit of a hassle, it’s a minor concern compared to the disappointment and complications that can occur from a hearing aid that’s not functioning properly as a result of a buildup of 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’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 long-term dependability
Once you get used to using your hearing aids, they become a critical facet of your daily routine, making it hard to envision life without them. By implementing a few basic safety measures, you can safeguard your hearing aids from damage and preserve their reliability over the long term. Prioritize regular maintenance, store them properly, and handle them with care, ensuring you can continue to reap the benefits of improved communication and a more fulfilling lifestyle.
Schedule an appointment if you’re experiencing issues with your hearing aid or need to schedule a regular maintenance appointment.