Summer, summer, summer time…who doesn’t love the summer months? There are so many wonderful things like warm weather, outdoor activities, barbeques, pools and holidays; but for people who wear hearing aids, summer means extra maintenance and care.
Breaking a sweat
As a hearing aid wearer, you know that moisture can wreak havoc on your devices. It just takes a few drops for your hearing aid to be affected. Perhaps you’ve noticed that you can’t hear clearly anymore, or your battery life is reduced. It’s possible your hearing has changed, but these problems are likely caused by water damage.
In summertime temperatures, one of the most common forms of moisture you’ll encounter is sweat. Whether going for a run, walking your dog, or hanging out in the back garden, you’re probably breaking a sweat more often than during the winter. If you’ve been perspiring heavily, take a minute to remove your hearing aids and dry them with a soft, damp cloth, checking for moisture build-up inside the battery door.
Fun by the water
Nothing screams summer like inflating the paddle pool for the kids, or heading to the nearest beach. If you’re planning a day around water, you may want to consider leaving your hearing aids behind. Moisture causes damage to microphones and receivers, and can even corrode the battery contact points, meaning you won’t be getting any power to your devices.
If you take your hearing aids with you, make sure you’re sitting somewhere you won’t get splashed, and be sure to take them out before jumping in. Leave them in a dry, shady place well out of reach of any children or pets.
To keep your ears dry while swimming, wear a bathing cap or ear plugs while in the water. Make sure you thoroughly dry your ears before putting your hearing aids back in.
If you’re lucky and likely to be around a lot of water this summer, you may want to consider investing in a hearing aid dehumidifier. They’re a real lifesaver when it comes to hearing aid maintenance. They will draw moisture out of your hearing aids during the night, so you’ll never experience damage due to summertime humidity, perspiration, or a pool-side splash.
Look out for sand
If you’re planning a beach holiday this summer, you’ll need to be vigilant when it comes to sand. Tiny grains of sand can clog your hearing aid microphones, receivers, or tubing, blocking the sound or causing permanent damage. If you’re at the beach, keep your hands away from your ears!
When you go for a dip, make sure you take out your devices and leave them in a dry, shady, sand-free spot. If you have a waterproof case or bag, this would be a good time to use it!
Also, apply sunscreen, lotions or sprays completely before putting in your hearing aids. The oils in these products can damage your hearing aids.
Don’t leave your devices in the car
Leaving your hearing aids in the car is never a great idea, but in the summer time it could spell the end of your devices. In the heat, the interior of your car turns into an oven. The outer casings of your hearing aids are made of plastic, so they will melt! Keep your hearing aids in your bag, and don’t leave them in the vehicle.
Be prepared!
Holiday get-togethers and high temperatures are things to celebrate, so make sure your hearing aids are ready for the festivities. Be sure to clean your hearing aids every day, using a soft, dry cloth to wipe away any moisture, dirt, dust, or debris that collects on your devices. Be sure to check the microphone, receiver, and tubing for any blockages. Moisture build up in warm environments are a breeding ground for bacteria.
If you have any questions, feel free to consult one of our professional audiologists for advice at any one of our clinics nationwide. Call 1800 501 501, or see www.audiologymedicalservices.ie/
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