Hearing aids can harbor excess flora and not the kind you might find at Corona Heights Park. Rather excess bacteria can alter the flora in your ear canal and increase the risk of irritation and infection in your ear.
For some users, this irritation can cause them to not wear their hearing aids as much or at all, which means they won’t get to experience all the benefits that can come from regularly using the device.
Thankfully, by adopting a proper cleaning routine complete with the right tools, you can remove irritating debris from your hearing aids and keep them functioning at their highest level.
Maintenance Kit Tools
In addition to bacteria, moisture and earwax can also build up on your device causing both irritation and problems in functionality. Consider adding these tools to your maintenance kit to help you avoid problems.
- Soft-bristled cleaning brushes can remove debris from the outer shell and get inside the holes of your device for a thorough clean.
- Ventilation cleaners can help remove any moisture or earwax present in models that have vents. These are long, thin cleaning wires that can move through the tubes to push out debris.
- Wax guards or filters are small plastic screens that attach to your hearing aid and prevents wax from building up on the device. They need to be replaced every 1-2 months for best results.
- Drying stations or drying boxes are small containers that can store and dry your hearing aids. They use air and heat to remove moisture from your device. Some use UV light which removes bacteria as well.
Care for Your Hearing Aids to Enjoy the Benefits
By properly caring for your device, you will:
- Help avoid the need for frequent repairs
- Reduce the risk of irritation caused by bacteria on your device
- Maximize the benefits you get from using hearing aids
People who treat their hearing loss with hearing aids report better physical health and lower levels of anxiety and depression. They also have more confidence interacting with people at work or during social gatherings and experience less isolation.
To learn more about how to properly care for your hearing aids or to schedule an appointment with one of our experts, call San Francisco Audiology today.