How To Take Care Of Hearing Aids
Hearing aids are after all machines. If anyone wears any type of hearing aid, it becomes important for the wearer to keep it safe and working effectively all the year round. In order to do that it’s important to take care of the hearing aids like any other machines that are frequently used. As hearing aids can’t take care of themselves, improperly handled hearing aids may stop working forcing you to buy a new one every now and then. Hearing aids are not like low-cost eye glass frames, it is essential to take care of it. If you are buying a reputed hearing aid, for instance like Phonak, Signia, or Resound (any type); it is essential to take care of these devices, as these hearing aids are actually an investment that need to be handled carefully. Here are some tips that you can use to keep your hearing aids working properly and fine for a long time.
1. Keep hearing aids away from heat and moisture
Hearing aids, are just like any other electronic item, and their performance can be affected by moisture. So, it’s important to keep them away from moisture. Even exposure to heat, can create problems, so, keep your hearing aid away from heat and direct sunlight also. Other causes of malfunction include regular exposure to water, high temperature or physical damage. Always store your hearing aids in the open air overnight, and leave battery doors open to avoid moisture build up.
2. Clean your hearing aid regularly
You keep hearing aids in your ear most of the time, so it’s important to clean them regularly. Hearing aids worn for a long period of time are subjected to moisture and earwax. Cleaning them regularly ensures they work properly. There are several types of hearing aid cleaning kits that are available for sale at the hearing aid clinics either separately or with hearing aids. Also regularly replace the wax filter. Remember earwax or cerumen plays important role in keeping your ear healthy, but it doesn’t work well with hearing aids. Also, it’s important to you get the hearing aid cleaned after 4 to 6 months by professional.
3. When not using digital hearing aids turn it off
There is misconception that if one has invested in high-quality expensive hearing aids, they can take care of themselves and even there is no need to turn them off. Fact is when not in use, turning off a hearing aid (most are digital today) is important to keep their performance at optimum level, especially when it is the first year of use of a hearing aid. It is important that you remind yourself of it daily. Eventually, it will become a habit and you will incorporate it into your daily routine.
4. Check hearing aid batteries regularly
Your hearing aids are as good as its batteries. If you don’t pay attention to your hearing aid batteries, hearing aids won’t work properly. You will not hear properly even with hearing aid. Always keep the batteries at room temperature; as cold drains them faster. When not using your hearing aids for a few days, remove the batteries during that period. If the batteries are dead, replace them immediately with new ones. Always clean the hearing aid battery contacts with a dry cotton swab.
5. Things to avoid in your hearing aid
Hearing aids are durable items and can be used in certain harsh conditions. But that doesn’t mean they are not indestructible, so it’s important to handle them with care, like avoid accidently dropping them. Even the so called expensive sturdy hearing aid can get damaged if handled carelessly. Always handle them gently, always store hearing aids in a safe, dry place away from kids/pets. Don't wet hearing aids and always remove them before going for a swimming or shower; don’t use harsh cleaners like alcohol, solvents; or apply hairspray or hair dye while wearing them.
AudiZone Speech & Hearing Clinic with its pan India presence with 16 branches can always help you keep your ear safe and healthy.
