Hearing aids are an essential tool for the 30 million people over 12 who suffer from hearing loss in the U.S. There are a variety of different types of hearing aids that work in different ways, but most function by receiving sound through a microphone and amplifying it for the wearer. Though modern technology has made these devices incredibly durable, they are still vulnerable to moisture damage — in fact, this is one of the most common reasons why hearing aids need to be repaired. If you wear hearing aids and have plans to swim or engage in any other water activities, it’s important to protect your ears from trapping moisture — especially if you use hearing aids with ear molds.
Keep Hearing Aids Safe from Damage
Hearing-impaired people deserve to enjoy swimming just like anybody else. As you’re planning your trip to the beach or a day spent by the pool, you may wonder how to deal with your hearing aids when you enter the water. Though there are some hearing aids that purport to be completely waterproof, in most cases, moisture and hearing aids are simply incompatible. This means you’ll need to take yours out before you go for a dip. If you’re in an environment where water is likely to be splashed around, it’s important that you bring a safe storage option to place them in. A zippered plastic sandwich bag can work, but you’ll get the best results from a special hearing aid container that’s waterproof.
Prevent Trapped Water in Your Ears
Once you’ve removed your hearing aids and stored them safely, you can rest assured that they’re protected from water damage…but what about your ears? How can you protect your ears from damage when you’re swimming? Any time you’re submerged underwater, your ears are at risk of injury. Water can quickly accumulate in the middle ear and become trapped, which makes ear infections and hearing loss far more likely. For a person who’s already experiencing hearing loss, this can be a particularly dangerous risk to take. Ear moisture damage and injury can be avoided by keeping your ears as dry as you can. Wearing a swimmer’s ear band or inserting ear plugs can massively reduce the likelihood of damage.
Enjoy Water Without Worry
Water can wreak havoc on your ears and your hearing aids, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy it. Swimming can be safe if you remove your hearing aids and use a protective barrier to prevent water from entering your inner ear. After you’ve enjoyed some time in the water, you should ensure that no water has entered your ear by gently tipping your head to each side and allowing any fluid to drain out. You may also use over-the-counter drying drops that help to mitigate moisture trapped in the ear. If you have ear tubes, though — or if you’re unsure about the safety of using ear drops — consult with your doctor or audiologist first.
Enjoy the Freedom of Hearing Clearly
Hearing loss can be stressful, confusing, and socially isolating. If you’re experiencing symptoms, but aren’t sure what to do, HEAR Center can help. We partner with major hearing aid manufacturers to make these devices accessible to all.
Contact us today to learn more about our services or to make an appointment:
Call or text: (626) 734-6555
Email us at: appointments@hearcenter.org
Chat us: https://direct.lc.chat/13342371/
Also, for more information about hearing aids please visit our webpage: https://www.hearcenter.org/services/hearing-aids/