Once you’ve adapted to life with your hearing aid, it becomes an indispensable part of your daily routine. The idea of it breaking down can be challenging, not only because of the inconvenience but also thanks to the prospective expense of repairs or replacements.
How to properly take care of your hearing aid
Being aware of what can damage your hearing aid and knowing how to maintain it correctly will help you maintain its functionality and ensure it continues to enhance your quality of life.
Effective upkeep of batteries
The performance of your hearing aid depends considerably on its battery. Therefore, picking the appropriate batteries for your device is crucial. Talk to your hearing specialist to figure out the ideal battery type for your model.
It is just as significant to handle the batteries carefully. Oils, dirt, and moisture from your hands can contaminate the batteries, resulting in potential damage.
Before switching out the battery, make sure your hands are clean and totally dry to keep any moisture from getting into the device.
Stick closely to the manufacturer’s directions, especially pertaining to battery upkeep. Turn off your hearing aid when it’s not being used to preserve battery life and keep it in a secure , dry place. Knowing the typical lifespan of a battery can also be quite helpful.
Make a note on your calendar each time you change the battery, so you can estimate when it will require changing again. It’s crucial to have a spare battery with you at all times, specifically when you are not at home, in order to prevent being stuck without power all of a sudden.
Guard against moisture
Hearing aids, being technological devices, are susceptible to moisture. Even minor exposure can result in damage or a complete breakdown of the device. To protect your hearing aid, think about investing in a dehumidifier designed specifically for hearing aids. This unit supplies a safe and dry atmosphere for your hearing aid when not in use, protecting it from damage caused by unwanted moisture.
To safeguard your hearing aid from moisture damage, it’s a good idea to take it out before participating in activities that make you perspire heavily. However, consult your hearing specialist first, as taking out your hearing aid during exercise, especially outdoors, might pose safety risks 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 going for a swim.
Additionally, avoid utilizing hairspray, spray deodorants, and other aerosol products while wearing your hearing aid. 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 decrease exposure.
Prevent excessive ear wax accumulation
While earwax serves as a natural barrier, shielding your ears from debris, dirt, and tiny insects, it can also interfere with the effective performance of your hearing aid. Earwax can build up in the device, causing it to breakdown. For correct maintenance, make an appointment with your audiologist or doctor to assess the amount of earwax build-up and establish a personalized cleaning plan suited to your ears and hearing device.
Cleaning your ears safely is essential– never insert any objects into your ear canal. Instead of that, let warm water enter your ears while you shower. This can assist in losening up and eliminating some of the earwax. Regular professional ear cleaning is also advisable. Though this may be a bit of a hassle, it’s a trivial problem in comparison to the disappointment and complications that can occur from a hearing aid that’s not functioning effectively due to 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 methods to ensure lasting reliability
After you’ve become accustomed to wearing your hearing aids, they become an indispensable part of your life, making it difficult to envision managing without having them. By taking a few easy precautions, you can prevent damage and ensure your hearing aids continue to be 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 enhanced communication and a more fulfilling lifestyle.
Schedule an appointment if you’re experiencing problems with your hearing aid or need to schedule a regular maintenance appointment.