How would you deal with it if your hearing aid quit working at the worst possible moment. Like in the middle of a phone call?
No one wants that to occur! Your hearing aids are a significant investment in your hearing, happiness, and general health. Keeping them working at maximum condition allows you to obtain the greatest possible benefits from them.
The following are 7 tips to help you properly care for your hearing aids and keep them performing at peak condition.
1. Get to Know The Instruction Manual
The most beneficial results will be attained when you make use of the manual that was included with your hearing aids. Many technical problems you may be experiencing can be solved by the trouble-shooting guides that are in these manuals.
If something isn’t working correctly, always check the manual first.
The manual should cover any problems related to the performance of your hearing aids. Newer hearing aids work differently than the older models so even if you’ve had hearing aids before this is important. Obviously, hearing aid technology has advanced considerably in recent years.
2. Keep Your Hearing Aids Clean
Bacteria often use hearing aids as a breeding ground.
If you don’t clean and disinfect your hearing aids and wash your hands before you use them, an ear infection can occur.
Additional hearing issues can be the result of an ear infection. Some of these issues are short lived but permanent damage can also occur.
After each use, wipe your hearing aids down with a dry cloth because bacteria bread more quickly on moist surfaces. 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 thoroughly.
The earpiece will remain free of any wax accumulation with regular cleaning.
3. Don’t Let Your Hearing Aids Get Wet
Getting wet is not something that most hearing aids are made to do. Even high humidity can cause damage. Don’t leave them on the nightstand after cleaning.
Hearing aids sitting on a surface in your house will accumulate dust that contains bacteria.
Keep your hearing aids in a cool, dry place according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Remember to take them out before you bathe or shower. Moisture is still present in the air when you shower, so don’t put them on the bathroom counter while getting ready.
When it rains, bring an umbrella.
Always keep your charger with you because your battery may drain faster if there’s moisture in the air.
Don’t allow your hearing aid to be exposed to intense heat, like a blow dryer or sauna, because that can also damage them.
4. Keep The Battery Charged
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 bed. If you plan on not wearing them for a prolonged length of time, always remove 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 fragile electronics.
You can significantly prolong the life of your batteries with this advice but always bring a spare battery, just in case.
5. Get a Hearing Professional to Clean Your Ears
A little bit of wax is pushed into your ear canal every time you insert your hearing aid. Voices will eventually begin to sound distorted as this earwax accumulates. If your hearing experience doesn’t seem right, make an appointment with a hearing specialist to check for abnormal earwax accumulation.
With the right tools and know-how, it’s a simple process. A hearing professional should be the only individual who conducts this procedure.
6. Put in Your Hearing Aids Above a Soft Surface
Taking the chance of dropping your hearing aid into the sink or toilet is really not worth it. This can definitely result in dropping the hearing aid and damaging it. Always put in your devices over a soft surface like a bed, sofa, or a folded towel placed on the kitchen table.
7. If You Aren’t Experiencing Improved Hearing, Speak to a Specialist
You need to continue to wear your hearing aids even if you’re not currently having the best success. Your situation can be improved. Make an appointment for a consultation.
