After you have become familiar with using your hearing aid, it becomes a vital element of your day-to-day routine. The idea of it breaking down can be intimidating, not only because of the inconvenience but also due to the potential expense of repairs or replacements.

How to best care for your hearing aid

By recognizing the prospective threats that can damage your hearing aid and taking measures to maintain it properly, you can preserve its effectiveness and continue to appreciate the improved quality of life it provides.

Proper battery upkeep

Your hearing aid’s performance is highly dependent on its battery. Thus, it is important to choose the appropriate batteries for your device. Discuss with your audiologist to find out which battery type is most suitable for your specific hearing aid model.
Handling the batteries with care is just as important. The natural oils, dirt, and moisture on your skin can transfer to the batteries and cause contamination, jeopardizing their functionality and potentially leading to damage.

Before switching out the battery, make sure your hands are clean and completely dry to keep any moisture from getting into the device.

Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines diligently, particularly regarding battery care. Power off your hearing aid when it’s not being used to protect battery life and keep it in a secure , dry place. Familiarizing yourself with the battery’s typical lifespan is also worthwhile.
Mark on your calendar when you change the battery, so you can prepare for when it needs to be switched out. To avoid being stuck without power, always carry a spare battery with you, especially when you’re away from home.

Minimize the risk of moisture damage

Hearing aids, being technological devices, are vulnerable to moisture. Even slight contact can bring about harm or total failure of the device. Safeguard your hearing aid’s functionality by acquiring a specialized drying device to preserve its functionality by getting rid of moisture. This unit supplies a safe and dry environment for your hearing aid when not in use, safeguarding it from damage related to excessive moisture.

When engaging in physical activities that cause sweating, you may think about taking out your hearing aid to stop moisture damage. Having said that, speak with your hearing specialist first, as taking out your hearing aid during exercise, particularly outdoors, might pose safety concerns by reducing your ability to hear environmental sounds like traffic or alarms. If necessary, opt for indoor exercise where it’s safer to be without your hearing aid, and always remember to take out your device before showering or going for a swim.

Furthermore, it is recommended to refrain from using spray deodorants, hairspray, and any other aerosol products when your hearing aid is in your ear. Prolonged exposure to these products can cause harm to the device, as the moisture and chemicals they contain can accumulate and lead to irreversible deterioration over time. Apply these products before putting on your hearing aid to reduce exposure.

Manage earwax buildup

Although earwax serves as a natural barrier, shielding your ears from debris, dirt, and small insects, it can also hamper the effective functioning of your hearing aid. Earwax can build up in the device, causing it to fail. To manage this, have your ears examined by your hearing specialist or doctor to assess the level of earwax buildup and create an appropriate cleaning routine for both your ears and your hearing aid.

Cleaning your ears safely is vital– never insert any objects into your ear canal. Alternatively, allow warm water to stream into your ears during showers, which can help break up and wash away some of the wax. Routine professional ear cleaning is also recommended. Even though this might be a bit of a hassle, it’s a trivial concern in comparison to the frustration and problems that can arise from a hearing aid that’s not functioning effectively due to a buildup of earwax.

To properly clean your hearing aid, carefully adhere to the guidelines provided by the manufacturer.
Various kinds of hearing aids may need specific cleaning methods, and using an incorrect technique might damage your device. If you are uncertain about how to clean your hearing aid correctly, it is recommended to seek guidance from your hearing specialist or hearing aid manufacturer.

Simple techniques to ensure lasting dependability

Once you get used to using your hearing aids, they become a critical facet of your daily routine, making it hard to picture life without them. By taking a few basic precautions, you can prevent damage and ensure your hearing aids remain reliable for years to come. Prioritize regular maintenance, store them safely, and handle them with care, ensuring you can continue to reap the benefits of improved communication and a more satisfying lifestyle.

Make an appointment if you’re experiencing problems with your hearing aid or need to set up a regular maintenance appointment.