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hearing aids, hearing loss
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Caring for your behind-the-ear hearing aids
Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids, are a
style of hearing instrument that consists of
two main portions connected by a thin tube.
The external piece sits on top of the ear
connecting to the second piece by a thin
tube running along the front of the ear. The
second piece is a custom fit ear piece, called
an ear mold, made with a silicone impression of your ear.
The thin tubing that connects the external piece to the ear mold
needs to be supple, soft, flexible, and without damage to properly
conduct sound from the external piece to the ear. Over time, this
tube will naturally become hard, brittle, and discolored. Cracks
may even form in the tubing, causing a loss of sound. When this
occurs, call your hearing healthcare professional for an
appointment to replace with new tubing. In most cases, your
tubing will need to be replaced every 3-6 months. However, if
you notice any hardness or damage, contact your professional as
soon as possible. Even slight damage to this portion can create
major changes in the sound quality of your hearing instrument.
The ear mold must also be kept clean and clear to have good
sound quality. Wipe off the outside of the ear mold with a clean
cloth. Keep the vent and sound opening free of debris and wax.
Your hearing healthcare professional probably provided you with
a small wire or plastic loop to remove wax from these openings.
If absolutely necessary, the ear mold can be removed to be
washed with warm water and soap. If washed, the ear mold must
remain detached until fully dry. Do not remove your ear mold
without speaking with your provider first. A thin glue or cement
may be holding the ear mold tightly to the tubing. Depending on
your hearing aid, it may or may not be acceptable to remove this
piece on your own. Over time, your ear mold may also need
replacement. Your provider will advise you about when you may
need to come in for new ear impressions to make a replacement
ear mold.
Using a clean, dry cloth wipe down the outside of the external
portion that sits on top of the ear. This portion needs to be kept
clean and free of debris, especially near the microphone
openings. Ask your hearing healthcare professional to point out
the microphones at one of your visits. Dirt and other build up on
the microphone ports can cause poor sound quality or even the
appearance of a dead hearing aid. Never use water or
unapproved liquids on this portion of your aid. The hearing aid is
electronic and can be damaged easily by moisture.
If you ever uncertain, give your hearing healthcare professional a
call. They will be able to guide you through care and maintenance
of your specific hearing aid. Daily maintenance, however, will
help prevent repairs and can help to extend the life of your BTE
hearing aid!
For More Information, Call Hearing Aids Sarasota FL
At: (941) 677-1075
Or
Visit Us At:
http://hearing-aids-sarasota-fl.com