After you have become familiar with using your hearing aid, it becomes a crucial element of your everyday schedule. The thought of it breaking down can be daunting, not only because of the inconvenience but also due to the prospective cost of repairs or replacements.
How to properly care for your hearing aid
By understanding the prospective threats that can harm your hearing aid and taking steps to maintain it correctly, you can protect its performance and continue to enjoy the increased quality of life it offers.
Effective care of batteries
Your hearing aid’s functionality is heavily dependent on its battery. As a result, picking the appropriate batteries for your device is essential. Consult with your hearing specialist to determine the ideal battery variety for your model.
It is just as important to handle the batteries carefully. The natural oils, dirt, and moisture on your skin can transfer to the batteries and cause contamination, jeopardizing their performance and potentially causing damage.
Always clean your hands before changing the battery, and be certain they are completely dried to avoid introducing moisture into the device.
Stick directly to the manufacturer’s directions, particularly pertaining to battery upkeep. Power off your hearing aid when it’s not in use to protect battery life and keep it in a safe, dry place. Knowing the typical lifespan of a battery can also be quite handy.
Note on your calendar when you change the battery, so you can prepare for when it needs to be switched out. To avoid being stuck without power, always bring a spare battery with you, particularly when you’re away from home.
Minimize the risk of moisture damage
Hearing aids, being technological devices, are susceptible to moisture. Even slight contact can cause harm or complete failure of the device. Protect your hearing aid’s functionality by acquiring a specialized drying device to maintain its functionality by getting rid of moisture. This device can securely store your hearing aid when it’s not in use, keeping it dry and free from moisture-related problems.
When engaging in physical activities that cause sweating, you may think about taking out 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, may pose safety concerns by reducing your ability to hear environmental sounds like traffic or alarms. If necessary, opt for indoor exercise where it’s safer to be without your hearing aid, and always remember to remove your device before showering or swimming.
Moreover, it is recommended to avoid using spray deodorants, hairspray, and any other aerosol products when your hearing aid is in use. Prolonged exposure to these products can lead to harm to the device, as the moisture and chemicals they consist of can accumulate and lead to irreversible deterioration over time. In order to minimize exposure, use these types of products before putting in your hearing aids.
Manage earwax buildup
While earwax serves as a natural barrier, shielding your ears from debris, dirt, and small insects, it can also hamper the proper performance of your hearing aid. Earwax can build up in the device, causing it to breakdown. To manage this, have your ears checked out by your hearing specialist or physician 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 enter your ears while you shower. This can assist in breaking down and eliminating some of the earwax. It is also suggested to have your ears cleaned regularly by a professional. While this may seem inconvenient, it’s far less troublesome than dealing with a malfunctioning hearing aid caused by 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.
Basic steps for long-term reliability
Once you get used to using your hearing aids, they become a crucial aspect of your daily routine, making it hard to envision life without them. By implementing a few basic safety measures, you can protect your hearing aids from damage and preserve their reliability over the long run. 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 satisfying lifestyle.
If you are having problems with your hearing aid or need to book a routine maintenance appointment, please arrange for a visit.