Waxing lyrical

Ear wax. We all have it, but it’s something we don’t like to talk about.

Ear wax actually does several very useful things. It protects the skin in the ear canal, acts as a defence against dirt and bacteria, and helps to clean and lubricate the ear. But you can have too much of a good thing and excess ear wax can prevent your hearing aids from working properly.

Ear wax build-up is one of the leading causes for hearing aid repair. It can make the sound coming through your hearing aids weak and distorted or non-existent.

To help prevent your hearing aid from breaking down, there are a few things you can do at home to keep your hearing aids clean.

Firstly take a close look at your hearing aids to see where wax is accumulating. Begin by wiping your hearing aids with a clean, dry cloth. If the wax is still visible, you can use the tools you’ll find in a cleaning kit to remove it safely. Hearing aid cleaning kits contain a variety of tools, such as a wax removal brush and pick, battery magnet, tube and vent cleaner, and battery door opener.

Filters and hearing aid wax guards

Most hearing aids today come with built-in wax protecting mechanisms, such as filters and wax guards. These parts are designed to be easily removed and replaced by the user. Hearing aid wax guards can do a very good job at making sure that earwax, dirt and moisture don't make their way into the sound outlet. The life of these filters and guards vary, as ear wax production alters from person to person. If your hearing aid has a filter or wax guard, inspect them daily for signs of debris.

Sound bores and hearing aid tips

Sound exits a hearing aid through the sound bore or tip. If this part becomes clogged with ear wax, use a small wax loop or brush to gently scoop the debris from the opening.

Tubing

If you wear a behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aid, be sure your inspection includes the tubing, which connects the hearing aid to the earmold or dome. Use a small, flexible wire or air blower to help dislodge the blockage.

Invest in a hearing aid dryer

Ear wax can also contribute to moisture-related problems with your hearing aids. After you inspect and clean your hearing aids, storing them in a hearing aid dryer overnight is a good way to safely keep your instruments dry and functional.

Your hearing aids are an investment – in better hearing as well as your quality of life. Studies show that individuals with hearing loss who wear hearing aids have less incidents of depression, anxiety and social depression than those who do not. When you take a few minutes each day to clean and dry them, you’ll be able to more fully enjoy the benefits they provide.

Buy your hearing aid accessories online

The Hearing Aid Repair Shop's online store stocks everything you need to keep your hearing aids clean and free of ear wax build-up. Buy online today.

Source: www.healthyhearing.com