One of the biggest threats to hearing aids is one they share with a lot of other sensitive electronics—moisture. You should be every bit as concerne
We’ve all seen the damage water can do when it’s left to sit where it doesn’t belong. In the case of a hearing aid, moisture that isn’t removed can drastically reduce performance. The hearing aids may work only intermittently, the sound quality may become rough and the tiny circuits that power the device may even short out.
Over the years, manufacturers have come a long way in developing various levels of water resistance for hearing aids, but moisture still remains a danger. You can only close off so much of a hearing aid; at some point sound needs a way to get in and out.
That said, it’s important to take precautions. The most sensible precaution is to give your hearing aids some time off. If you’re going to be in a situation where your hearing aids are likely to get wet, consider putting them in a protective case and leaving them home, or in another cool, dry place.
Here’s why:
- Water and snow are fun but dangerous.Be especially careful about your hearing aids when you’re going swimming or enjoying watersports. That goes especially for saltwater activities. Even if you get ocean moisture out your hearing aids, the tiny particles of salt left behind can do a lot of damage. In winter, even though water has turned to ice and snow, the same advice applies while enjoying snow sports and even the occasional snowball fight.
- Sweat is a natural enemy.If you absolutely have to wear your hearing aids while exerting yourself in warm weather, look into getting a specially-designed headband that keeps perspiration from reaching your hearing aids. The same goes for winter; think about how much perspiration you can generate around your hearing aids by wearing them underneath a heavy hat or earmuffs while shoveling snow.
It’s almost impossible to keep every drop of moisture away from your hearing aids. So, if your hearing aids do get wet or damp, wipe them with a soft, dry cloth; take out the batteries and wipe the battery compartment, as well.
Your next step should be to give your hearing aids a thorough, overnight drying with a hearing aid drying kit. There are a range of options and prices available, so come in and talk to us about your specific lifestyle, so we can recommend an option for you.
And whatever you do, please do not get creative about drying your hearing aids. For instance, do not put them near or in a home heat source; that isn’t good for them. And do not attempt to dry them with same unit you use to dry your hair. The intense heart of a hair dryer can be very harmful.
If you’d like to know more about protecting your hearing aids from moisture, please contact us.
