If you wear hearing aids to manage hearing loss, maintaining clean devices is essential for optimal hearing care. Earwax buildup can impact hearing aid performance and reduce clarity, so regular cleaning is key to maintaining your hearing health.
How Earwax Buildup Impacts Hearing Loss and Hearing Aid Performance
Earwax buildup can create multiple issues for those with hearing aids:
- Degrades hearing aid parts: Wax can corrode components over time.
- Blocks sound and clarity: Reduced clarity and volume.
- Causes feedback and other issues: Disrupts sound quality and can worsen hearing loss symptoms.
- Affects fit and comfort: Excess wax impacts comfort.
- Reduces hearing quality: Excessive wax can mask sounds, even with hearing aids.
Hearing aid users are particularly susceptible to earwax buildup because:
- Natural ear cleaning is blocked: Hearing aids prevent wax from drying and falling out naturally.
- Hearing devices increase earwax production: Foreign objects in the ear often stimulate wax production.
Hearing Aid Cleaning Tips for Better Hearing Care
Keep your hearing aids in top condition with these essential hearing care tips:
- Clean devices every night: Use a soft cloth or cleaning brush.
- Store in a dry, cool place: A dehumidifier or drying box reduces moisture.
- Turn off when not in use: Helps preserve battery life and reduces wax buildup.
- Open the battery door: Allows airflow and reduces internal moisture.
- Replace wax guards regularly: Helps prevent wax from reaching device components.
- Schedule regular cleanings with your Midwest Hearing specialist: Professional cleanings improve hearing aid performance and support hearing health.
Safe Earwax Removal Tips for Hearing Health
While it may be tempting to clean your ears frequently, avoid using Q-tips or cotton swabs, as they can push wax further into your ear canal, risking impaction and injury. For safer at-home options, consider using earwax removal kits, available at most pharmacies or at Midwest Hearing. If earwax continues to affect your hearing aids, contact your Midwest Hearing team or your primary care doctor for safe removal and guidance.
Need Help with Hearing Aids or Hearing Care?
If earwax buildup or other issues are affecting your hearing aids, call Midwest Hearing today at 651-770-1363. Our experienced Audiologists provide comprehensive support, from hearing aid maintenance to managing hearing loss, to ensure optimal hearing health.