After you have become familiar with using your hearing aid, it becomes an essential element of your day-to-day schedule. The prospect of a breakdown can be unsettling, as it presents not just a disruption to everyday life, but also a significant financial burden in the form of repair or replacement costs.
Tips for maintaining and maximizing your hearing aid functionality
Understanding what can damage your hearing aid and knowing how to maintain it properly will help you maintain its performance and ensure it continues to enrich your quality of life.
Proper battery care
The effectiveness of your hearing aid depends considerably on its battery. Hence, it is essential to select the right batteries for your device. Consult with your hearing specialist to figure out the best battery type for your model.
Handling the batteries with care is equally important. Oils, dirt, and moisture from your hands can contaminate the batteries, resulting in potential damage.
Always wash your hands before swapping out the battery, and make sure they are thoroughly dried to prevent introducing moisture into the device.
Adhere closely to the manufacturer’s directions, particularly pertaining to battery upkeep. Turn off your hearing aid when it’s not in use to preserve battery life and keep it in a secure , dry place. Familiarizing yourself with the battery’s normal lifespan is also beneficial.
Mark 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 carry a spare battery with you, particularly when you’re away from home.
Minimize the risk of moisture damage
Hearing aids, being electronic devices, are vulnerable to moisture. Even nominal exposure can result in damage or a complete breakdown of the device. To protect your hearing aid, think about purchasing a dehumidifier developed specifically for hearing aids. This device can securely store your hearing aid when it’s not in use, keeping it dry and free from moisture-related problems.
When participating in physical activities that cause sweating, you might consider removing your hearing aid to stop moisture damage. However, 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 necessary, go with 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.
Furthermore, it is suggested to refrain from 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 accumulate on the device, resulting in long-term damage. Use these products before mounting your hearing aid to minimize exposure.
Manage earwax buildup
Although earwax serves as a natural shield, shielding your ears from debris, dirt, and small insects, it can also hamper the proper functioning of your hearing aid. The accumulation of earwax in the device can lead to it not working properly. To control this, have your ears checked out by your hearing specialist or physician to assess the level of earwax buildup and create an appropriate cleaning routine for both your ears and your hearing aid.
It is important to clean your ears safely and never put anything foreign into your ear canal. Instead of that, let warm water enter your ears while you are showering. This can assist in breaking down and removing some of the earwax. It is also recommended to have your ears cleaned regularly by a professional. Though this might be a bit of a hassle, it’s a minor problem compared to the disappointment and problems that can occur from a hearing aid that’s not functioning effectively due to a buildup of 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 methods to ensure lasting reliability
Once you get used to using your hearing aids, they become a critical aspect of your daily routine, making it difficult to envision life without them. By using a few easy safety measures, you can avoid damage and ensure your hearing aids continue to be dependable for years to come. Prioritize regular maintenance, 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.
