Hearing aids are essential devices to enhance communication and overall quality of life. To ensure you have the best experience, it is important to understand how to properly use, maintain, and troubleshoot your device. This guide provides practical information to help you get the most out of your hearing aids.
Types of Hearing Aids
First, our audiologist in Westchester administers a series of tests to properly diagnose the type, cause and severity of one's hearing impairment. If a permanent hearing loss is present, the audiologist will discuss the significance of your hearing loss as well as determine if further testing is necessary. If there is a presence of any of the following conditions or symptoms, it is strongly recommended to be referred to a medical physician for further testing before receiving any treatment:
Sits behind the ear and is connected to either an earmold or dome.
Smaller than a BTE, with the speaker placed inside the ear canal that allows for ventilation providing a more natural sound.
Custom devices that fit within the ear that come in a selection of sizes depending on the degree of hearing loss.
Components of Your Device
Most hearing aids contain the following key components:
Captures sound and transmits it to the processor.
Enhances the sound signals for better clarity.
Delivers the processed sound into the ear.
Houses the power source, which may be disposable or rechargeable.
Each hearing aid should have a red marker for the right ear and a blue marker for the left ear. To ensure comfort and effectiveness, follow these steps:
Hearing aids should be professionally fitted and programmed to provide the best results for your specific hearing needs. In the beginning, your brain will need to re-identify what is important to you. Certain unwanted sounds can be somewhat overwhelming, such as footsteps, water running, and newspapers. It can also be normal for your voice or the physical fit of the hearing aids to be unusually noticeable to you. It will become more comfortable as you continue to wear the hearing aids.
Professional adjustments can be made to enhance clarity and comfort in various listening environments, however there is also a period of adjustment for your brain to hear differently through the hearing aid.
▶ Most hearing aids turn on automatically when the battery compartment is closed or when removed from a charging case.
▶ To turn off your hearing aid, open the battery door or place the device back in its charging unit. For alternate options, ask your audiologist or consult the instructions that came with your hearing aid.
Proper battery care is crucial for maintaining reliable performance:
▶ Disposable Batteries: Open battery door when not using hearing aids. Replace as needed, typically every 5-14 days depending on usage.
▶ Rechargeable Batteries: Charge overnight for all-day performance. Direct streaming your hearing aids to another device will affect battery life.
Regular cleaning extends the life of your hearing aid and ensures optimal performance. Hearing aid care best practices include:
▶ Wiping the microphone and speaker daily with a soft cloth or tissue
▶ Using a hearing aid brush to remove any wax and debris.
▶ Storing the hearing aids in its charger or a dry, protective case when not in use.
▶ Make sure that you remove your aids when you wash your face, take a shower, or go swimming. Hearing aids may be water resistant but should not be immersed in liquid.
▶ Do not expose your hearing aids to excessive heat (above 120°F), such as the oven, microwave or leave them in your car during the summer.
▶ Do not use aerosol spray (hair sprays, etc.) on your hair with the aids in your ears. The spray may discolor the plastic and/or plug the microphone.
Many hearing aids connect to smartphones, TVs, or other devices via Bluetooth. If experiencing issues:
If your hearing aid continues to experience issues despite troubleshooting, schedule an appointment with your audiologist for a professional evaluation.
Additional assistive listening devices and accessories, some including Bluetooth features, can improve hearing aid functionality, including:
Annual evaluations along with routine follow-ups and cleanings with a qualified audiologist will help your hearing aids maintain optimal performance. Additional adjustments, repairs, and hearing evaluations should be scheduled as needed.
Proper use and maintenance of your hearing aids are essential for achieving the best possible hearing experience. By following our guidance, you can maximize the performance, comfort, and longevity of your device. However, if you encounter any persistent issues or need adjustments, professional support is just a call or click away.
Listen Hear Diagnostics provides the best hearing care services, hearing loss treatment and hearing aids to improve your overall hearing health.
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