How would you deal with it if your hearing aid stopped working at the worst possible time. Like in the middle of a phone call?
That’s not something anyone wants! It’s important to invest in hearing aids for your hearing, your happiness, and your general health. You will get the greatest possible benefit from your hearing aids if you keep them working at maximum condition.
You can properly care for your hearing aids and keep them working in top condition by implementing these 7 tips.
1. Understand The Instructions
Your hearing aids came with a manual outlining how to take care of them so that you can get the best results. Many technical problems you might be having can be solved by the trouble-shooting guides that are included with these manuals.
If something isn’t functioning properly, always consult the manual first.
Any problems associated with the performance of your hearing aid should be covered in the manual. Modern hearing aids function differently than the older models so even if you’ve used hearing aids before this is important. After all, there have been many changes in hearing aid technology in the past few years.
2. Clean Your Hearing Aids
Hearing aids can provide a breeding ground for bacteria.
While there’s normally some harmless bacteria on your skin, if you don’t wash your hands or thoroughly clean the hearing aids, it can cause an infection.
Ear infections can lead to further hearing concerns. Most go away quickly, but some can cause irreversible damage.
After each use, wipe your hearing aids down with a dry cloth because bacteria bread faster on moist surfaces. Water can ruin your hearing aid so keep them out of water. Disinfect them often with an alcohol-free wipe, being careful not to get it too wet.
Clean them thoroughly once a week, including any custom mold pieces.
The earpiece will be free of any wax accumulation with frequent cleaning.
3. Keep Your Hearing Aids Dry
Most hearing aids are not designed to get wet. Even high humidity can cause damage. After cleaning, don’t leave them on the nightstand.
Hearing aids will accumulate dust which has bacteria if they are left resting on an open surface.
Keep your devices in a cool, dry place as outlined by the manufacturer’s recommendations. Before you go into the shower or bathe, be sure you take them out. Moisture is still present in the air when you shower, so don’t leave them on the bathroom counter when getting ready.
When it’s raining, bring an umbrella.
Always keep your charger with you because your battery may drain faster if there’s moisture in the air.
Heat can also damage hearing aids, so don’t expose them to a blow dryer, sauna, or other extreme heat.
4. Avoid Draining The Battery
Keep your battery charged and bring a backup when you go to a significant event.
Turn your hearing aids completely off before you go to sleep. If you plan on not wearing them for an extended period of time, always take out the battery. You’ll get more life out of the battery this way, and you’ll avoid the risk of battery acid damaging the hearing aid’s delicate electronics.
You can significantly prolong the life of your batteries with this guidance but always carry a spare battery, just in case.
5. Have Your Ears Cleaned Professionally
Anytime you’re inserting something in your ear, it will push a little bit of earwax inside the canal. Voices will eventually begin to sound muffled as this earwax accumulates. If your hearing experience doesn’t seem right, schedule an appointment with a hearing professional to check for excessive earwax buildup.
The removal procedure is simple with the correct tools. It should only be done by a trained professional with the expertise to take care of and service your hearing aids.
6. When You’re Putting in Your Hearing Aids, do it Above a Soft Surface
Don’t risk dropping your hearing aids in the toilet or sink. Dropping and breaking your hearing aid becomes a real possibility in this scenario. Always insert your devices over a soft surface such as a bed, sofa, or a folded towel placed on a table or counter.
7. Consult a Specialist if You Aren’t Experiencing Improved Hearing
If you aren’t having the best experience with your hearing aids, don’t discontinue wearing them. Your situation can be enhanced. Make an appointment to come see us for an exam.