How would you handle it if your hearing aid stopped working at the worst possible moment. Like when you’re in a crucial meeting.
That’s not something anyone wants! Your hearing aids are an important investment in your hearing, happiness, and overall health. You will get the greatest possible advantage from your hearing aids if you keep them functioning in peak condition.
You can properly care for your hearing aids and keep them working in top condition by following these 7 tips.
1. Understand The Instructions
Your hearing aids came with a manual describing how to maintain them so that you can get the best results. These manuals typically include troubleshooting guides that will help you address many technical challenges.
If something isn’t functioning properly, always consult the manual first.
The manual should address any problems pertaining to the performance of your hearing aids. Modern hearing aids work differently than the older models so even if you’ve used hearing aids before this is important. Obviously, hearing aid technology has advanced significantly in recent years.
2. Clean Your Hearing Aids
Hearing aids can be a breeding ground for bacteria.
If you don’t clean and disinfect your hearing aids and wash your hands before you handle them, an ear infection can be the result.
Additional hearing problems can be the result of an ear infection. Most are temporary, but some can cause irreversible damage.
Bacteria prefer damp surfaces, so clean each hearing aid with a dry cloth before and after each use. Water can damage your hearing aid so keep them out of water. Disinfect them frequently with an alcohol-free wipe, being careful not to get it too wet.
Once each week, clean the hearing aid and any custom mold pieces completely.
Regularly cleaning your hearing aids will help stop wax buildup on the earpiece.
3. Don’t Allow Your Hearing Aids Get Wet
Getting wet is not something that most hearing aids are made to do. They can even be damaged by high humidity. After cleaning, don’t put them on the nightstand.
Hearing aids will accumulate dust which contains bacteria if they are left lying on an open surface.
Adhere to the guidance of the manufacturer and store them in a cool dry place. Remember to take them out before you shower or take a bath. Leave your hearing aids in another room during your shower because there will be moisture in the air.
Take an umbrella with you if there’s rain in the forecast.
Always keep your charger with you because your battery could drain faster if the air has moisture.
Don’t allow your hearing aid to be exposed to extreme heat, like a blow dryer or sauna, because that can also do damage to them.
4. Keep The Battery Charged
Keep your battery charged and bring a backup when you attend a significant event.
Turn your hearing aids completely off before you go to bed. Take out the batteries if you’re going to go for a long time period without using your hearing aids. If you allow your hearing aids to sit for long periods of time with the battery in them, the life of the battery can be decreased and their delicate electronics can be harmed by battery acid.
The life of your battery can be substantially extended by adhering to these recommendations but it doesn’t hurt to bring a spare along, just in case.
5. Have Your Ears Cleaned Professionally
A small amount of wax is pushed into your ear canal each time you put your hearing aid in. Voices will eventually start to sound distorted as this earwax builds up. Set up an appointment for a cleaning with your hearing specialist if your hearing seems dull and muted.
The removal procedure is simple with the correct tools. It should only be conducted 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
Taking the risk of dropping your hearing aid into the sink or toilet is really not worth it. This can easily lead to dropping the hearing aid and damaging it. Always insert your devices over a soft surface such as a bed, sofa, or a folded towel placed on the kitchen table.
7. If You’re Not Experiencing Improved Hearing, Consult a Specialist
If you’re not having the best experience with your hearing aids, don’t discontinue wearing them. There are solutions. Schedule an appointment to come see us for an exam.