If you have hearing aids, you should be capable of hearing, right? When they aren’t working properly, it can be extremely infuriating, it’s a total “You had ONE job” situation. Here’s the good news, with regular upkeep, your hearing aids should continue to function efficiently.
Before you do anything extreme, consider this list. If it’s not one of these common problems, it might be time to pay us a visit to ensure there isn’t a more substantial problem. For example, your hearing aids may need recalibration, or your hearing may have changed.
Potential Pitfall: Low Batteries
Hearing aid batteries, while improving in quality, still require recharging and replacing sometimes. That means that it’s essential to keep up with your hearing aids’ batteries. If it seems as if the sound is diminishing or cutting in and out, check your battery first.
The fix: Keep ‘em Fresh
Purchasing a battery tester, especially if you like to stock up, is a smart idea. Batteries have a shelf life so the last batteries in the pack may not have the same voltage as the first few even if you keep them sealed. Another trick: Wait five minutes after you open new batteries before you install them. This can help the batteries last longer by allowing the zinc to activate.
Potential Pitfall: Gross Things Like Wax And Grime
Regardless of how clean you keep your ears, and if you have a hard time hearing, you’re much more likely than the average individual to pay attention to earwax, your hearing aids will gather dirt and debris. You might find yourself with a dirt issue if sounds seem a little bit off or distorted.
The fix: Clean ‘em Out—And Keep Them Clean!
You can purchase a kit for cleaning your hearing aids or you can use items you already have around the house to clean them. You can use a microfiber cloth, like the kind you use to clean your computer screen or cellphone, to wipe your hearing aid down after disassembling it.
You can help keep your hearing aids from gathering excess grime by practicing simple hygiene practices. Whenever you do something that calls for liquid or dampness, such as washing your face or styling your hair, take your hearing aids out and make sure your hands aren’t wet when handling them.
Potential Pitfall: Trapped Moisture
Even a small amount of moisture can really harm your hearing aid (think working up a sweat, not snorkeling). The vent in the hearing aid and the battery can even be effected by humidity in the air. Issues ranging from distortion to static or even crackling might happen depending on how much moisture is inside. They may even seem to quit altogether.
The fix: Keep ‘em Dry
Make sure that when you store your hearing aids, you open the battery door; and if you’re storing them for longer than 24 hours, remove the batteries completely. It takes almost no effort and ensures that air can move, and any trapped moisture can get out.
Store hearing aids in a cool, dry spot. Don’t store them in the bathroom or kitchen. Keeping them in the bathroom may seem convenient but moisture is just too much. You will most likely want to purchase a hearing aid storage box if you live in a very humid climate. Most models use a desiccant in the form of a small moisture absorbing packet, but some more expensive models eliminate moisture with electronics.
None of the above are working out? It might be time to consult us.