If you have hearing aids, you should be capable of hearing, right? When your hearing aid stops doing its job, it can be extremely frustrating. The good news is, with regular upkeep, your hearing aids should be up to the job.
Consider this list before you do anything hasty. If it’s not one of these common issues, it may be time to schedule an appointment with us to ensure there isn’t a larger problem. For instance, your hearing aids might need recalibration, or your hearing could have changed.
Potential Pitfall: Low Batteries
While hearing aid batteries have gotten dramatically smaller and lifespans are getting better, the batteries still have to be occasionally replaced or recharged. So staying on top of charging your batteries is important. The first thing you need to do if your hearing aid starts to falter or cut in and out is check the battery.
The fix: Keep ‘em Fresh
Purchasing a battery tester, especially if you like to stock up, is a worthwhile idea. Even if you keep batteries sealed until you need to use them, always a good plan, they have a limited shelf life, and so the last batteries in that giant pack you purchased months ago most likely won’t maintain a charge as long as the first few did. Another trick: When you unpack new batteries, wait 5 minutes before putting them in. This gives the zinc time to become active, and can possibly extend the life of the batteries.
Potential Pitfall: Gross Things Like Wax And Grime
Your hearing aids will accumulate dirt and debris regardless of how clean you keep your ears and if you have problems hearing you’re probably more conscientious about earwax. You may find yourself with a dirt problem if sounds seem a bit off or distorted.
The fix: Clean Them Out—And Keep Them Clean!
There are plenty of products on the market specifically for cleaning hearing aids, but you can DIY it with things you already have around the house. Once you’ve taken apart your hearing aids, use a soft, microfiber cloth (like you’d use to clean the screen of a computer or smartphone) to wipe down the hardware.
You can help keep your hearing aids from gathering excess filth by practicing simple hygiene habits. Wash and dry your hands before you handle your hearing aids, and take them out while you’re doing things, like washing up, styling your hair, or even shaving, that might put them at risk of being spritzed, sprayed, or splashed.
Potential Pitfall: Trapped Moisture
Moisture can be a real problem for hearing aids, and it doesn’t take much to do so (think working up a sweat, not deep-sea diving). Even humidity in the air can be an issue, blocking up the hearing aid’s air vents or causing batteries to drain faster. Issues ranging from distortion to static or even crackling may happen depending on how much moisture is inside. They may even seem to shut down.
The fix: Keep Them Dry
Leave the battery door open when you store your hearing aid overnight and any longer than that, take the battery out. Any trapped moisture will be able to evaporate and air will be able to flow with very little effort on your part.
A cool, dry place is the best spot to keep your hearing aids. Don’t keep them in the bathroom or kitchen. Keeping them in the bathroom might seem convenient but there’s just too much moisture. If you live in a humid climate, you may want to consider purchasing a hearing aid storage box. Most versions use a desiccant in the form of a small moisture absorbing packet, but some more costly versions eliminate moisture with electronics.
None of the above are working? It might be time to talk to us.
