After you have become accustomed to wearing your hearing aid, it becomes an essential element of your day-to-day schedule. The likelihood of a breakdown can be distressing, as it poses not only a disturbance to daily life, but also a substantial financial burden in the form of repair or replacement costs.
How to best take care of your hearing aid
By being aware of the prospective threats that can harm your hearing aid and taking steps to care for it properly, you can preserve its performance and continue to appreciate the improved quality of life it offers.
Effective upkeep of batteries
Your hearing aid’s functionality is highly dependent on its battery. As a result, selecting the correct batteries for your hearing aid is essential. Consult with your hearing specialist to figure out the ideal battery type for your model.
Handling the batteries with care is equally important. Oils, dirt, and moisture from your hands can contaminate the batteries, causing potential damage.
Always wash your hands before swapping out the battery, and make sure they are completely dried to prevent introducing moisture into the device.
Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines diligently, especially concerning battery care. Turn off your hearing aid when it’s not being used to preserve battery life and store it in a secure , dry place. Knowing the average lifespan of a battery can also be quite helpful.
Mark on your calendar when you replace the battery, so you can prepare for when it needs to be replaced. To avoid being caught without power, always bring a spare battery with you, especially when you’re away from home.
Guard against moisture
As electronic technology, hearing aids are susceptible to moisture. Even minor exposure can lead to damage or a total malfunction of the device. To protect your hearing aid, think about purchasing a dehumidifier developed specifically for hearing aids. This unit supplies a safe and dry atmosphere for your hearing aid when not in use, safeguarding it from damage caused by excessive moisture.
To protect your hearing aid from moisture damage, it’s a smart idea to take it out before participating in activities that make you perspire heavily. However, speak with your hearing specialist first, as taking out your hearing aid during exercise, particularly outdoors, might pose safety concerns by limiting your ability to hear external sounds like traffic or 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 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, leading to long-term damage. Apply these products before putting on your hearing aid to minimize exposure.
Manage earwax buildup
While earwax serves as a natural barrier, protecting your ears from debris, dirt, and small insects, it can also hamper the proper performance of your hearing aid. Earwax can accumulate in the device, causing it to malfunction. For proper maintenance, schedule an appointment with your audiologist or doctor to assess the amount of earwax accumulation and establish a customized cleaning plan tailored to your ears and hearing device.
It is important to clean your ears safely and never put anything foreign into your ear canal. Alternatively, allow warm water to stream into your ears during showers, which can help disperse and flush away some of the wax. Regular professional ear cleaning is also recommended. Though this might be a bit of a hassle, it’s a minor concern in comparison to the frustration and complications that can arise from a hearing aid that’s not working properly as a result of a buildup of 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’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.
Simple techniques to ensure lasting dependability
Once you get used to wearing your hearing aids, they become a critical facet of your daily routine, making it difficult to picture life without them. By taking a few easy safety measures, you can prevent 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 satisfying lifestyle.
Schedule an appointment if you’re experiencing issues with your hearing aid or need to schedule a regular maintenance appointment.