What would you do if your hearing aids quit working at a time when you most needed them. 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 total 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 operating in peak condition.
1. Understand The Instructions
The most beneficial results will be attained when you make use of the manual that came with your hearing aids. These manuals normally come with troubleshooting guides that will help you solve many technical challenges.
If something isn’t functioning correctly, always check the manual first.
Any issues involving the performance of your hearing aid should be addressed in the manual. Modern hearing aids function differently than the older models so even if you’ve had hearing aids before this is important. Obviously, hearing aid technology has progressed considerably in recent years.
2. Clean Your Hearing Aids
Bacteria like to use hearing aids as a breeding ground.
If you don’t clean and disinfect your hearing aids and wash your hands before you handle them, an ear infection can be the result.
Ear infections can trigger further hearing trouble. Most are temporary, but some can cause permanent damage.
After each use, wipe your hearing aids down with a dry cloth because bacteria bread faster on moist surfaces. You should never put your hearing aids in water. Disinfect them frequently 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.
The earpiece will remain free of any wax accumulation with frequent cleaning.
3. Keep Your Hearing Aids Dry
Most hearing aids are not made to get wet. They can even be damaged by high humidity. Don’t leave them on the nightstand after cleaning.
Hearing aids will gather dust which contains bacteria if they are left resting on an exposed surface.
Store your devices in a cool, dry place in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines. Don’t forget 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 when getting ready.
Take an umbrella with you if there’s rain in the forecast.
Your battery may die faster because it has to make use of 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 intense heat, like a blow dryer or sauna, because that can also damage them.
4. Avoid Draining The Battery
Don’t get caught without a backup battery at your child’s piano recital.
When you take your hearing aids off to go to sleep, turn them all the way off. Take out the batteries if you’re going to go for a long time period 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 delicate electronics.
The life of your battery can be significantly extended by following these recommendations but it doesn’t hurt to bring a spare along, just in case.
5. Have Your Ears Cleaned Professionally
A little bit of wax is pushed into your ear canal every time you put your hearing aid in. If this earwax is allowed to build up, it might eventually cause voices to sound muffled. If your hearing experience doesn’t seem correct, make an appointment with a hearing specialist to check for excessive earwax accumulation.
With the right tools and know-how, it’s a simple process. It should only be done by a trained professional with the expertise to take care of and service your hearing aids.
6. Insert Your Hearing Aids Over a Soft Surface
Don’t chance dropping your hearing aids in the sink or toilet. Dropping and breaking your hearing aid becomes a real possibility in this scenario. Always put in your devices over a soft surface such as a bed, sofa, or a folded towel placed on a table or counter.
7. If You’re Not Experiencing Improved Hearing, Speak to a Specialist
You need to continue to wear your hearing aids even if you aren’t currently having the best success. Your situation can be enhanced. Schedule an appointment for a consultation.