Most people who wear hearing aids were never told that they could expect a breakdown at least once a year. It is very important that you request a three-year warranty and insist on a loaner if your hearing aid has to be sent back to the manufacturer for repair. Depending on the manufacturer, it could take up to three weeks to receive your hearing aid back from repair.
The most common cause of hearing aid breakdown is wax. Most hearing aid patients are given a tiny wax pick, which may have a small brush on one end of it. This small instrument is not effective in cleaning wax out of the receiver bore. What I recommend is the use of a soft toothbrush. You should briskly brush the two holes of your hearing aid every day.
Another common cause of hearing aid breakdown is moisture. It is important that you open the battery door every night to dry out your hearing aid. If your hearing aid continues to intermittently work, you should request a dry aid kit or an electronic dehumidifier from your dispensing audiologist.
The third most common cause of hearing aid breakdown is your batteries. Make sure that the batteries that you purchase have a freshness date. Ask your dispensing audiologist for a battery tester if you are unsure if your battery is working or not. Almost every day a patient will come into my office complaining that their hearing aid is dead. The problem, in most instances, is a dead battery. I suggest purchasing either Rayovac, Energizer or Power One batteries.
Finally, it is important that you have your hearing aid serviced by your dispensing audiologist at least two times a year. These tips should certainly prolong the life of your hearing aid.
Dr. Izzy and his staff are always available to answer your questions about hearing care. Feel free to visit our website at www.gardenstatehearing.com
