Once you’ve adjusted to life with your hearing aid, it becomes an indispensable part of your day-to-day routine. The likelihood of a breakdown can be unsettling, as it poses not just a disruption to daily life, but also a considerable financial burden in the form of repair or replacement costs.
How to properly take care of your hearing aid
By recognizing the prospective hazards that can damage your hearing aid and taking steps to maintain it properly, you can preserve its performance and continue to appreciate the increased quality of life it provides.
Practical upkeep of batteries
Your hearing aid’s functionality is heavily dependent on its battery. Thus, it is essential to select the correct batteries for your device. Consult with your audiologist to find out which battery type is most suitable for your specific hearing aid model.
It is equally significant to handle the batteries carefully. The natural oils, dirt, and moisture on your skin can transfer to the batteries and result in contamination, compromising their functionality and potentially causing damage.
Always wash your hands before swapping out the battery, and be certain they are thoroughly dried to prevent introducing moisture into the device.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions meticulously, particularly regarding battery care. To prolong the battery life of your hearing aid, make sure to power it down when not wearing it and keep it stored in a safe , dry location. Familiarizing yourself with the battery’s typical lifespan is also beneficial.
Note on your calendar when you change the battery, so you can prepare for when it needs to be replaced. To avoid being caught without power, always carry a spare battery with you, particularly when you’re away from home.
Guard against moisture
As electronic technology, hearing aids are susceptible to moisture. Even nominal exposure can lead to damage or a complete breakdown of the device. Protect your hearing aid’s functionality by purchasing a specialized drying device to preserve its functionality by removing moisture. This device can securely store your hearing aid when it’s not being used, keeping it dry and free from moisture-related issues.
To protect your hearing aid from water damage, it’s a smart plan to take it out before participating in activities that make you sweat heavily. However, speak with your hearing specialist first, as removing your hearing aid during exercise, particularly outdoors, may pose safety risks by limiting your ability to hear external 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 take out your device before showering or going for a swim.
Also, avoid utilizing hairspray, spray deodorants, and other aerosol items while using your hearing aid. These products contain moisture and chemicals that can build up on the device, causing long-term damage. In order to minimize exposure, use these types of products before putting in your hearing aids.
Control earwax buildup
Though earwax plays a defensive role by keeping dust, insects, and other foreign debris out of your ears, it can present a challenge for your hearing aid. Earwax can build up in the device, causing it to breakdown. For proper maintenance, make an appointment with your audiologist or doctor to assess the amount of earwax accumulation and establish an individualized cleaning plan tailored to your ears and hearing device.
It is important to clean your ears carefully and never put anything foreign into your ear canal. Alternatively, allow warm water to flow into your ears in the course of showers, which can help disperse and wash away some of the wax. It is also suggested to have your ears cleaned routinely by a professional. While this might seem inconvenient, it’s much less troublesome than dealing with a malfunctioning hearing aid caused by excessive earwax.
To properly clean your hearing aid, carefully adhere to the guidelines provided by the manufacturer.
Various kinds of hearing aids may need specific cleaning methods, and using an incorrect technique might damage 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 steps for long-term reliability
Once you get used to using your hearing aids, they become a critical facet of your daily routine, making it difficult to picture 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 run. Prioritize routine upkeep, 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 difficulties with your hearing aid or need to schedule a routine maintenance appointment, please arrange for a visit.