10 Tips for Maintaining Your Behind the Ear Hearing Aid

Introduction Hey there, fellow behind the ear hearing aid wearer! If you’re like me, you know the value of these little devices in enhancing your hearing and improving your quality of life. But to keep them working at their best, they need some TLC. Let’s dive into some helpful tips for maintaining your behind the ear hearing aid.

1. Clean Your Hearing Aid Regularly Keeping your hearing aid clean is crucial for optimal performance. Personally, I make it a habit to clean mine every day. It’s amazing how much earwax and debris can accumulate in just a short time! Use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe down the exterior of the hearing aid, and use a brush or pick to carefully clean any vents or openings.

2. Store Your Hearing Aid Properly When you’re not wearing your hearing aid, it’s important to store it properly to protect it from damage. I always make sure to store mine in a dry, cool place, away from moisture and extreme temperatures. A hearing aid case or drying kit can also be a great investment for keeping your device safe and secure when not in use.

3. Avoid Moisture Exposure Moisture is the enemy of hearing aids, especially behind the ear models. I learned this the hard way when I accidentally wore mine in the shower once – not a good idea! Now, I always make sure to remove my hearing aid before swimming, showering, or engaging in any water-related activities. Investing in a hearing aid sweatband can also help protect your device during exercise or hot weather.

4. Change Batteries Regularly There’s nothing worse than having your hearing aid die unexpectedly due to a dead battery. To avoid this inconvenience, I make it a habit to change my batteries regularly, usually once a week or whenever I notice a decrease in power. Keeping a stash of fresh batteries on hand is also a good idea so you’re never caught without spares.

5. Check for Wax Buildup Earwax is a natural part of life, but it can wreak havoc on your hearing aid if allowed to build up. I’ve had my fair share of issues with wax getting stuck in the tubing or vents of my hearing aid, so now I make sure to check for buildup regularly. If I notice any wax accumulation, I use a specialized wax pick or brush to carefully remove it, being careful not to damage the device.

6. Schedule Professional Cleanings While regular at-home cleanings are important, nothing beats a professional cleaning by an audiologist. I try to schedule a cleaning appointment at least once a year to ensure that my hearing aid is in top-notch condition. During these appointments, the audiologist can also check for any issues or adjustments that may be needed to keep my device working effectively.

7. Inspect for Damage Just like any other electronic device, hearing aids can be prone to damage if not handled carefully. I’ve learned the hard way that dropping your hearing aid on a hard surface can result in cracks or other damage that affects performance. That’s why I always make sure to inspect my hearing aid regularly for any signs of damage, such as cracks, loose parts, or scratches.

8. Keep Away from Extreme Temperatures Extreme temperatures can be harmful to your hearing aid, so it’s important to avoid exposing it to heat or cold whenever possible. I make sure to remove my hearing aid before using hairdryers, curling irons, or other heat-producing devices, and I never leave it in a hot car or near a radiator. Similarly, I avoid exposing my hearing aid to extreme cold temperatures, such as leaving it outside in freezing weather.

9. Follow Manufacturer Guidelines Every hearing aid is different, so it’s important to follow the specific maintenance guidelines provided by the manufacturer. I always make sure to read the instruction manual that came with my hearing aid and follow any recommendations for cleaning, storage, or battery replacement. Following these guidelines ensures that I’m taking the best possible care of my device.

10. Conclusion Maintaining your behind the ear hearing aid doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require some effort and attention to detail. By following these simple tips, you can keep your hearing aid in top-notch condition and enjoy clear, crisp sound for years to come. Remember, a little maintenance goes a long way when it comes to preserving your hearing health!

FAQs

1. How often should I clean my behind the ear hearing aid? Ideally, you should clean your behind the ear hearing aid daily to prevent wax buildup and maintain optimal performance. However, if you notice any debris or buildup, it’s essential to clean it immediately to avoid any issues.

2. Can I use water to clean my behind the ear hearing aid? It’s generally not recommended to use water to clean your behind the ear hearing aid, as moisture can damage the delicate components. Instead, use a dry, soft cloth or a specialized hearing aid cleaning tool to remove any dirt or debris.

3. How do I know when it’s time to change the batteries in my hearing aid? You should change the batteries in your behind the ear hearing aid regularly, typically once a week or whenever you notice a decrease in power. Some hearing aids also have low battery warning indicators to alert you when it’s time for a change.

4. Can I repair my behind the ear hearing aid if it’s damaged? Typically, it’s advisable to entrust repairs to trained professionals. If you notice any damage to your behind the ear hearing aid, such as cracks, loose parts, or other issues, contact your audiologist or hearing healthcare provider for assistance.

5. How should I store my behind the ear hearing aid when I’m not using it? When you’re not wearing your behind the ear hearing aid, store it in a dry, cool place away from moisture and extreme temperatures. Using a hearing aid case or drying kit can help protect your device from damage while it’s not in use.

6. Can I use alcohol or cleaning solutions to clean my hearing aid? It’s best to avoid using alcohol or cleaning solutions on your behind the ear hearing aid, as these can damage the device’s components. Stick to using a dry, soft cloth or specialized cleaning tools recommended by your audiologist.

7. How often should I schedule professional cleanings for my behind the ear hearing aid? It’s recommended to schedule professional cleanings for your behind the ear hearing aid at least once a year. During these appointments, your audiologist can thoroughly clean your device and check for any issues or adjustments that may be needed.

8. What should I do if I accidentally get my behind the ear hearing aid wet? If your behind the ear hearing aid gets wet, remove the battery immediately and dry the device thoroughly with a soft cloth. You can also use a hearing aid drying kit or a dehumidifier to help remove any moisture trapped inside the device.

9. Can I use my behind the ear hearing aid while exercising or participating in physical activities? It’s generally safe to use your behind the ear hearing aid while exercising or participating in physical activities, but it’s essential to take precautions to protect it from sweat and moisture. Consider using a hearing aid sweatband or removing your hearing aid during particularly intense activities.

10. How long do behind the ear hearing aids typically last? The lifespan of a behind the ear hearing aid can vary depending on factors such as usage, maintenance, and technological advancements. However, with proper care and maintenance, most behind the ear hearing aids can last several years before needing to be replaced.