Hearing aids are excellent devices used to aid people struggling with hearing to hear better. However, since people wear them almost all day long, the devices are prone to damage brought upon by ear wax. Although it is a natural occurrence, ear wax is a substance that can damage or impair hearing aids. In the long run, they might even destroy the device. But why should people clean the ear wax from their hearing aids? Here are some ideas.
1. Blocks Hearing Aid Speakers
Ear wax is a substance characterised by sticky, thick, and gooey texture which can easily block any opening it occupies. Like it can block the ear canal, the ear wax can also block the speakers on the hearing aid used to amplify the sounds to its wearer.
Ear wax that gets into hearing aids can block the device’s speakers. The speakers are vital in producing sounds that help people hear better. When they are obstructed, hearing aids will fail to function correctly. Therefore, ensuring no debris blocks the speakers should help people hear clearer with their hearing aids.
2. Builds Up Moisture
Excess wax in hearing aids can also make the devices more susceptible to moisture. Earwax contains oils that attract water. When the oils build up, it can damage the parts inside the hearing aid. The humidity can cause hearing aids to malfunction and break, resulting in an unusable hearing device.
3. Causes Corrosion
Earwax can also damage hearing aid batteries. Hearing aid batteries are made of zinc and air, both reactive to moisture. Moisture can cause the zinc to corrode and the air to react with the zinc.
The moisture can also cause the hearing aid batteries to leak and corrode the hearing aid. Overall, water and devices like the hearing aid shouldn’t mix. Therefore, besides keeping the hearing aids from getting wet, users should also keep them clean.
How to Clean Hearing Aids
Removing wax buildup from hearing aids is essential for several reasons. For one, wax congestion can lead to hearing loss. Second, the wax buildup can damage the hearing aid. Cleaning the hearing aid is a simple process. Users can start by using a soft, dry cloth to wipe the hearing aid.
Next, they can use a soft brush to remove any wax buildup. After completing that, users can use a cotton swab to remove any wax buildup in the hearing aid’s sound bore. After cleaning the hearing aid, users should remove the batteries and store the hearing aid in a dry place.
How Often Should Users Clean Their Hearing Aid
The hearing aid should be cleaned at least once a week. Some manufacturers recommend rinsing the hearing aid with warm water to remove any wax buildup. However, it’s important to note that manufacturers don’t recommend immersing the hearing device in water.
Keeping the hearing aid free of dirt and dust is also essential. Users can use a soft brush or a dry cloth to remove any dirt or dust from the hearing aid. If the hearing aid has a vent, users should also make sure that the vent is clean. It will prevent any dirt or dust from entering the hearing aid and damaging it.
Users should also regularly inspect the hearing aid for wear and tear. If the hearing aid is damaged, it’s essential to take it in for repair. Failing to do so could lead to hearing loss.
Conclusion
Users should clean their hearing aids daily by wiping them down with a clean, soft cloth. If the hearing aid has been used in water, it should be dried immediately and placed in the drying chamber. If you can’t clean the hearing aid, it’s best to take it in for repair. Wearing a dirty hearing aid can lead to poor hearing and inconvenience.
Country Hearing Care offers industrial hearing services, helping clients get a better shot at hearing clearer and better. We aim to provide the hearing test in Mildura, which can be used to give expert hearing care. Inquire about our services today or book an appointment from our website today.
