Sun, sand and surf: Fun – but not for your hearing aids
Kim Galick, Registered Hearing Instrument Specialist and owner of Ears Hearing Clinic in Langley.
Hiking, swimming, camping, enjoying the beach, or all of the above – there are plenty of reasons to be excited for summer! And while many of us need only worry about staying hydrated, wearing sunscreen and avoiding overheating, those who use hearing aids must also be mindful of protecting these marvels of modern medical technology.
“Properly fit hearing aids should blend into the background and be unnoticeable during day-to-day activities, but as a result, some hearing aid users may unintentionally damage their hearing aids while enjoying fun, outdoor activities in the summer months,” notes Kim Galick, from Ears Hearing Clinic in Langley. “Thankfully, with just a little extra planning, hearing aid users can enjoy all the same summer activities as everyone else.”
Kim shares her top four tips for keeping hearing aids safe, clean and operational during the summer.
-
Protect your hearing aids from moisture: Most hearing aids are not waterproof, so it's no surprise that moisture-related damage is a big concern in the summer when water-based activities are most popular. Removing them before swimming or engaging in a water-balloon fight with the kids is a good place to start. Investing in a dehumidifier and waterproof covers can also help keep your hearing aids safe and help them air out after any unintentional exposure.
-
Keep them clean: The summer months often see an increase in exposure to dust, dirt, sweat and sand, so keeping up with your daily cleaning routine is important. Wipe your hearing aids with a dry, soft cloth every day to remove sweat and debris. Use a soft brush to clean any nooks and crannies. You can also schedule a professional cleaning with your audiologist before and after the summer season to ensure your devices are thoroughly cleaned and in good working order.
-
Avoid overheating: Hearing aids, like all electronics, are not suited to high heat. Avoid leaving them in direct sunlight and wear a hat when out and about. Store your hearing aids in a proper protective case to further protect them from heat and other hazards.
-
Take your allergy medication: Seasonal allergies can cause all sorts of problems, including ear congestion, which can impact how your hearing aids perform. Use antihistamines or other allergy medications as recommended by your doctor to keep symptoms under control. Keep an eye out for signs of ear infections or excessive earwax, which can be more common in summer. Visit your hearing healthcare practitioner if you notice any issues.