Once you’ve adjusted to life with your hearing aid, it becomes an important part of your everyday regimen. The likelihood of a breakdown can be worrysome, as it causes not just a disruption to everyday life, but also a considerable monetary burden in the form of repair or replacement expenses.
How to properly take care of your hearing aid
By recognizing the potential threats that can harm your hearing aid and taking measures to maintain it correctly, you can protect its performance and continue to enjoy the improved quality of life it provides.
Practical care of batteries
The performance of your hearing aid depends substantially on its battery. Hence, it is important 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.
Prior to replacing the battery, ensure your hands are clean and totally dry to prevent any moisture from getting into the device.
Stick directly to the manufacturer’s instructions, particularly regarding battery upkeep. Power off your hearing aid when it’s not in use to preserve battery life and store it in a secure , dry place. Knowing the average lifespan of a battery can also be really helpful.
Note on your calendar when you change the battery, so you can anticipate when it needs to be switched out. To avoid being stuck without power, always carry a spare battery with you, especially when you’re away from home.
Minimize the risk of moisture damage
As electronic technology, hearing aids are susceptible to moisture. Even brief contact can cause harm or total failure of the device. To protect your hearing aid, think about investing in a dehumidifier developed specifically for hearing aids. This unit provides a safe and dry atmosphere for your hearing aid when not in use, safeguarding it from damage caused by excessive moisture.
When engaging in physical activities that cause sweating, you might think about taking out your hearing aid to prevent moisture damage. However, consult your hearing specialist first, as taking out your hearing aid during exercise, particularly outdoors, may pose safety concerns by limiting your ability to hear environmental sounds like traffic or alarms. If possible, opt to exercise indoors where it is safer to take out your hearing aid, and make sure to remove your device before bathing or swimming.
Also, avoid using hairspray, spray deodorants, and other aerosol products while wearing your hearing aid. Extended exposure to these products can cause harm to the device, as the moisture and chemicals they contain can build up and lead to lasting degredation over time. In order to minimize exposure, use these kinds of products before putting in your hearing aids.
Prevent excessive ear wax accumulation
Although earwax plays a protective role by keeping dust, insects, and other foreign particles out of your ears, it can pose a challenge for your hearing aid. Earwax can accumulate in the device, causing it to fail. To control this, have your ears checked out by your hearing specialist or doctor to evaluate the level of earwax buildup and create an appropriate cleaning routine for both your ears and your hearing aid.
Cleaning your ears safely is crucial– never insert any objects into your ear canal. As opposed to that, let warm water enter your ears while you shower. This can help in losening up and removing some of the earwax. Routine professional ear cleaning is also recommended. While this may seem inconvenient, it’s significantly less problematic 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.
Various kinds of hearing aids may need specific cleaning methods, and using an incorrect technique might damage 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.
Basic steps for continued dependability
Once you get used to wearing your hearing aids, they become a critical aspect of your day-to-day routine, making it difficult to envision life without them. By implementing a few simple safety measures, you can protect your hearing aids from harm and maintain their reliability over the long term. Regular maintenance, proper storage, and cautious handling are key to keeping your hearing aids in optimal condition, allowing you to keep enjoying the improved quality of life they provide.
If you are having problems with your hearing aid or need to book a routine maintenance appointment, please arrange for a visit.