What would you do if your hearing aids stopped working at a time when you most needed them. Such as in the middle of a phone call?
That’s not something anyone wants! Your hearing aids are a significant investment in your hearing, happiness, and overall health. You will get the greatest possible benefit from your hearing aids if you keep them functioning in peak condition.
You can properly care for your hearing aids and keep them functioning in top condition by following these 7 tips.
1. Understand The Instructions
The most beneficial results will be attained when you use the manual that was included with your hearing aids. These manuals normally come with troubleshooting guides that will help you solve many technical difficulties.
If something isn’t functioning 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 may not function the same way. After all, there have been many advances in hearing aid technology in the last few years.
2. Clean Your Hearing Aids
Hearing aids can provide a breeding ground for bacteria.
If you fail to clean and disinfect your hearing aids and wash your hands before you use them, an ear infection can occur.
Ear infections can lead to further hearing issues. 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 faster on moist surfaces. Never put your hearing aids in water. Disinfect them regularly with an alcohol-free wipe, being mindful not to get it too wet.
Once every week, clean the hearing aid and any custom mold pieces thoroughly.
Regularly cleaning your hearing aids will help prevent wax buildup on the earpiece.
3. Keep Your Hearing Aids Dry
Getting wet is not something that most hearing aids are designed to do. Even high humidity can damage them. Don’t keep them on the nightstand after cleaning.
Hearing aids resting on a surface in your home will collect dust that contains bacteria.
Stay within the recommendations of the manufacturer and store them in a cool dry place. Before you go into the shower or bathe, make sure you take them out. Leave your hearing aids out of the bathroom when you shower because there will be moisture in the air.
Take an umbrella with you if there’s rain in the forecast.
Your battery may die faster because it needs to use more energy in a moist environment, so you should always carry 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 do damage to them.
4. Avoid Draining The Battery
Don’t get caught without a backup battery at your nephew’s concert.
Turn your hearing aids completely off before you go to bed. Remove the batteries if you’re going to go for a long time without using your hearing aids. You’ll get more life out of the battery this way, and you’ll avoid the chance of battery acid damaging the hearing aid’s sensitive electronics.
You can substantially extend the life of your batteries with this advice but always carry a spare battery, just in case.
5. Have Your Ears Cleaned Professionally
Anytime you’re inserting something into your ear, it will push a little bit of earwax into the canal. Voices will eventually begin to sound muted as this earwax builds up. Make an appointment for a cleaning with your hearing specialist if your hearing seems dull and muted.
The removal process is simple with the right tools. A hearing professional should be the only person who performs this procedure.
6. Insert Your Hearing Aids 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 breaking it. Over a bed, couch, or soft folded towel would be a suitable place to put them in.
7. Talk to a Specialist if You Aren’t Experiencing Improved Hearing
You need to keep wearing your hearing aids even if you’re not currently having the best success. There are answers. Schedule an appointment to come see us.