Once you’ve adapted to life with your hearing aid, it becomes an important part of your daily routine. The likelihood of a breakdown can be unsettling, as it presents not only a disturbance to daily life, but also a considerable monetary burden in the form of repair or replacement expenses.
How to properly maintain your hearing aid
By understanding the prospective hazards that can harm your hearing aid and taking measures to maintain it correctly, you can preserve its effectiveness and continue to appreciate the increased quality of life it provides.
Effective care of batteries
The effectiveness of your hearing aid relies substantially on its battery. As a result, selecting the appropriate batteries for your hearing aid is crucial. Speak with your hearing specialist to figure out the ideal battery variety for your model.
It is equally important to handle the batteries carefully. Oils, dirt, and moisture from your hands can contaminate the batteries, causing potential damage.
Prior to switching out the battery, ensure your hands are clean and completely dry to prevent any moisture from getting into the device.
Stick closely to the manufacturer’s instructions, especially regarding battery maintenance. To increase the battery life of your hearing aid, be certain to power it down when not using it and keep it stored in a safe , dry spot. Familiarizing yourself with the battery’s typical lifespan is also beneficial.
Make a note on your calendar each time you replace the battery, so you can estimate when it will require changing again. To avoid being stuck without power, always carry a spare battery with you, especially when you’re away from home.
Protect against moisture
As electronic technology, hearing aids are vulnerable to moisture. Even minimal exposure can lead to damage or a complete breakdown of the device. To safeguard your hearing aid, consider purchasing a dehumidifier designed specifically for hearing aids. This device provides a safe and dry environment for your hearing aid when not in use, safeguarding it from damage caused by excessive moisture.
When participating in physical activities that cause sweating, you may consider removing your hearing aid to prevent moisture damage. Consult taking off your hearing aid to workout, especially outdoors, with your hearing specialist, as doing so may jeopardize your safety by reducing your recognition of important auditory cues, including traffic noises or warning alarms. If possible, opt to exercise inside where it is safer to take out your hearing aid, and make sure to remove your device before showering or swimming.
Also, avoid using 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. In order to decrease exposure, use these types of products before putting in your hearing aids.
Manage earwax buildup
Though earwax plays a defensive role by keeping dust, insects, and other foreign debris out of your ears, it can pose a challenge for your hearing aid. Earwax can build up in the device, causing it to fail. To manage this, have your ears examined 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 assist in breaking down and eliminating some of the earwax. It is also suggested to have your ears cleaned routinely by a professional. While this might seem inconvenient, it’s significantly less problematic than dealing with a malfunctioning hearing aid due to 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.
Simple techniques to ensure lasting 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 taking a few basic precautions, you can avoid damage and ensure your hearing aids continue to be dependable for years to come. 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 fulfilling lifestyle.
If you are having problems with your hearing aid or need to schedule a routine maintenance appointment, please arrange for a visit.