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?
Nobody wants that to happen! Your hearing aids are an important investment in your hearing, happiness, and general health. You will get the greatest possible advantage from your hearing aids if you keep them working at maximum condition.
The following are 7 tips to help you correctly care for your hearing aids and keep them performing at peak condition.
1. Become Familiar With The Instruction Manual
The most beneficial results will be attained when you use 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 functioning correctly, always check the manual first.
Any issues associated with the performance of your hearing aid should be covered in the manual. Newer hearing aids function differently than the older models so even if you’ve had hearing aids before this is important. After all, there have been many changes in hearing aid technology in the last few 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 lead to an infection.
Further hearing issues can be the outcome of an ear infection. Most go away quickly, but some can cause lasting damage.
Bacteria prefer moist surfaces, so wipe each hearing aid with a dry cloth before and after each use. Water can ruin your hearing aid so keep them out of water. Disinfect them often with an alcohol-free wipe, being cautious 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. Keep Your Hearing Aids Dry
Most hearing aids are not designed to get wet. They can even be damaged by high humidity. Don’t put them on the nightstand after cleaning.
Hearing aids lying on a surface in your home will collect dust that carries bacteria.
Keep your hearing aids in a cool, dry place according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Before you go into the shower or take a bath, be sure you take them out. Keep your hearing aids out of the bathroom when you shower because there will be moisture in the air.
When it’s raining, carry an umbrella.
Your battery may die faster because it needs to use more energy in a moist environment, so you should always bring your charger with you.
Don’t allow your hearing aid to be exposed to extreme heat, such as a blow dryer or sauna, as that can also damage them.
4. Keep The Battery Charged
Don’t get caught without a backup battery at your nephew’s piano recital.
Turn your hearing aids completely off before you go to sleep. If you’re not going to wear them for an extended amount of time, 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. Get a Hearing Professional to Clean Your Ears
Anytime you’re putting something in your ear, it will push a small amount of earwax into the canal. If this earwax is allowed to build up, it might eventually cause voices to sound distorted. Schedule an appointment for a cleaning with your hearing professional if your hearing seems dull and muted.
The removal process is simple with the correct tools. It should only be performed by a trained professional with the expertise to service and care for your hearing aids.
6. When You’re Inserting Your Hearing Aids, do it Over a Soft Surface
Don’t chance dropping your hearing aids in the toilet or sink. Dropping and breaking your hearing aid becomes a substantial possibility in this scenario. Over a couch, bed, or soft folded towel would be a suitable place to put them in.
7. Consult a Specialist if You’re Not Experiencing Better Hearing
If you aren’t having the best experience with your hearing aids, don’t discontinue wearing them. There are solutions. Schedule an appointment to come see us for a hearing test.