What would you do if your hearing aids stopped working at a time when you needed them most. Such as in the middle of a phone call?
No one wants that to happen! It’s important to invest in hearing aids for your hearing, your happiness, and your overall health. You will get the greatest possible advantage from your hearing aids if you keep them working in peak condition.
The following are 7 tips to help you correctly care for your hearing aids and keep them working at peak condition.
1. Get to Know The Instruction Manual
Your hearing aids came with a manual describing how to maintain them so that you can experience the best results. Many technical problems you may be having can be resolved by the trouble-shooting guides that are in these manuals.
Always go to the manual first if something isn’t working properly.
Any problems involving the performance of your hearing aid should be covered in the manual. Newer hearing aids work 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. Clean Your Hearing Aids
Hearing aids can provide a breeding ground for bacteria.
If you don’t clean and disinfect your hearing aids and wash your hands before you use them, an ear infection can occur.
Further hearing problems can be the outcome of an ear infection. Most are temporary, but some can cause irreversible damage.
After each use, wipe your hearing aids down with a dry cloth because bacteria bread faster on moist surfaces. Water can damage your hearing aid so keep them out of water. Disinfect them frequently with an alcohol-free wipe, being mindful not to get it too wet.
Clean them carefully once a week, including any custom mold pieces.
The earpiece will be free of any wax accumulation with frequent cleaning.
3. Don’t Let Your Hearing Aids Get Wet
Most hearing aids are not made to get wet. Even high humidity can damage them. After cleaning, don’t keep them on the nightstand.
Hearing aids will gather dust which has bacteria if they are left resting on an open surface.
Store your hearing aids in a cool, dry place in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines. Don’t forget to take them out before you shower or take a bath. Moisture is still present in the air when you shower, so don’t leave them on the bathroom counter while getting ready.
Take an umbrella with you if it’s raining.
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, as that can also damage them.
4. Keep The Battery Charged
Don’t get caught without a backup battery at your child’s piano recital.
When you take your hearing aids off to go to bed, turn them all the way off. If you’re not going to wear them for an extended duration, always remove the battery. You’ll get more life from the battery this way, and you’ll avoid the chance of battery acid damaging the hearing aid’s delicate 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 Professionally Cleaned
Anytime you’re inserting something into your ear, it will push a little bit of earwax inside the canal. If this earwax is allowed to build up, it may 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. An expert in hearing should be the only person who performs this procedure.
6. When You’re Putting in Your Hearing Aids, do it Above a Soft Surface
Don’t risk dropping your hearing aids in the toilet or sink. This can definitely lead to dropping the hearing aid and damaging it. Always put in your devices over a soft surface such as a bed, sofa, or a folded towel placed on the kitchen table.
7. Consult 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. Your situation can be enhanced. Make an appointment to come see us for an exam.