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! Your hearing aids are an important investment in your hearing, happiness, and general health. You will get the greatest possible benefit from your hearing aids if you keep them functioning at maximum condition.
You can properly take care of your hearing aids and keep them functioning in peak condition by following these 7 tips.
1. Get to Know The Instruction Manual
Your hearing aids came with a manual explaining how to take care of them to get the best results. These manuals normally come with troubleshooting guides that will help you solve many technical challenges.
If something isn’t working properly, always check the manual first.
The manual should address any issues related to the performance of your hearing aids. This is important even if you’ve had hearing aids before because your new devices might not work in the same manner. Obviously, hearing aid technology has progressed significantly in recent years.
2. Keep Your Hearing Aids Clean
Hearing aids can be 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.
Further hearing problems can be the consequence of an ear infection. Most are temporary, but some can cause lasting damage.
After every use, wipe your hearing aids down with a dry cloth because bacteria bread more quickly on moist surfaces. Water can ruin your hearing aid so keep them out of water. Disinfect them regularly with an alcohol-free wipe, being mindful not to get it too wet.
Clean them carefully once a week, including any custom mold pieces.
Routinely cleaning your hearing aids will help stop wax buildup on the earpiece.
3. Keep Your Hearing Aids Dry
Most hearing aids are not made to get wet. Even high humidity can cause damage. Don’t put them on the nightstand after cleaning.
Hearing aids resting on a surface in your house will accumulate dust that carries bacteria.
Stay within the recommendations of the manufacturer and store them in a cool dry place. Remember to take them out before you bathe or shower. Moisture is still present in the air when you shower, so don’t leave them on the bathroom counter when getting ready.
Take an umbrella with you if there’s rain in the forecast.
Your battery might drain faster because it needs to make use of more energy in a moist environment, so you should always carry your charger with you.
Heat can also damage hearing aids, so don’t expose them to a blow dryer, sauna, or other intense heat.
4. Keep The Battery Charged
Don’t get caught without a backup battery at your nephew’s concert.
Turn your hearing aids completely off before you go to sleep. If you plan on not wearing them for an extended duration, always remove the battery. You’ll get more life from the battery this way, and you’ll avoid the risk of battery acid damaging the hearing aid’s sensitive electronics.
The life of your battery can be substantially lengthened by following 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 insert your hearing aid. Voices will eventually start to sound muffled as this earwax builds up. Make an appointment for a cleaning with your hearing specialist if your hearing seems dull and muted.
The removal procedure is simple with the right tools. It should only be conducted by a trained professional with the expertise to service and care for your hearing aids.
6. When You’re Putting in Your Hearing Aids, do it Above a Soft Surface
Taking the chance 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 breaking it. Over a bed, couch, or soft folded towel would be a suitable place to insert them.
7. If You’re Not Experiencing Improved Hearing, Talk To a Specialist
If you’re not having the best experience with your hearing aids, don’t stop wearing them. Your situation can be improved. Schedule an appointment to come see us for a hearing test.