Any time you try something new – especially something you will rely on every day – it can take some time to get used to how it feels. Hearing aids are no exception. Hearing aids may quickly become something that you hardly even think about. As you become more comfortable with your hearing aids, here are some tips to help make the transition easier.
In the beginning, don’t wear them all the time
If you’re nervous about your hearing aids but know you should use them, try wearing them for only an hour or two at a time. Slowly increase the duration and frequency. Before you know it, you may hardly notice that you have them on. This approach allows you to gradually get used to how hearing aids feel and work.
Give yourself time to adjust to the changes in sound
According to HI Health Innovations, when hearing aids are first worn things will sound different. You might feel that your voice is extremely loud and booming, sounds might seem sharp or screechy and you may notice some sounds that you didn’t before you wore hearing aids, such as when you swallow. With hearing aids, some of the sounds you’ll hear are just things you were missing, but others can be reduced by adjusting the hearing aid to better fit your ear. If you think something isn’t right, talk with your audiologist. They will be able to help you adjust your hearing aids and get accustomed to the new sounds.
Clean hearing aids regularly
If you don’t clean your hearing aids regularly, you’re putting yourself at risk for potential ear aches. Wax buildup on hearing aids can also impact their effectiveness. Keeping your ears clean will help reduce the possibility of wax buildup, but you still need to take the time to clean hearing aids regularly.
Don’t put up with pain
Hearing aids shouldn’t hurt. While some minor discomfort may be common at the onset, hearing aids should never hurt your ears or give you headaches. If they do, contact your audiologist who may make adjustments to ensure a more comfortable fit for your ears.
Watch out for moisture
Moisture can wreak havoc on hearing aids and potentially cause malfunctions. It can come from common things such as rain, sweat or humidity. To combat moisture, remember to dry out the hearing aids whenever you’re not wearing them. Specially-designed devices are available that will dry out hearing aids, but in many cases, all you have to do is open the battery door and let them air dry. As always, follow your audiologist’s directions or any instructions that you received with your hearing aids.
