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Man adjusting to new hearing aids by adjusting volume on his smartphone.

You’ve purchased a set of new hearing aids. Taking the first step to enhance your life is a great accomplishment. Modern hearing aids are newer technology and there are things you should learn to do and things that you should learn not to do. It’s not a huge list when it comes to hearing aids, but it is a significant one.

Taking care of your hearing isn’t the only consideration. The things you fail to do will make the hearing aid less useful or slow down your adjustment time. Now learn from the mistakes many others in your situation have made; contemplate these four things you shouldn’t do with those new hearing aids.

1. Straight Out of the Box Into Your Ear

You could be ignoring powerful features if you don’t take the time to understand the basics of how your hearing aid functions and explore the features that come with the brand. More than likely, your hearing aids won’t work effectively if you just turn them on and put them in. Bluetooth and noise filters are some of the best features that you may also lose out on.

You can practice fine-tuning the hearing aid and ascertain how to obtain the best sound quality by being patient and reading the documentation.

you’ll have a basic idea of what your hearing aids can do when you purchase them. Now you need to figure out how to use and that which takes a little time.

2. It Takes Time For Your Ears to Adjust

Every time you get new glasses, your eyes require time to adjust to the difference in the lenses or the shape of the frame. The same is true for hearing aids. Some new hearing aid owners believe they will immediately enjoy this fabulous new sound quality. It doesn’t work that way.

If you haven’t ever worn hearing aids, it’s a significant change and your ears will require some time to adapt. Quick adjustment is all about consistent use.

Once you’ve put them in leave them in. In the beginning, you may need to fight the urge to remove them every few minutes. Ask yourself why you might be uncomfortable.

  • Take out the hearing aid if it gets uncomfortable for short intervals. If the hearing aids just don’t seem to fit right, go back to the retailer and have them checked.
  • Are you overwhelmed by the background noise? Every day when you first put them in you should go to a quiet place for a few minutes. Sit and talk with a friend. Ask them if you are talking too loud. This will help you make adjustments to balance out the sound.
  • Is the noise too loud? Maybe you need to turn down the volume.

Giving up is the biggest mistake you can make. If you throw your hearing aids in a drawer and forget about them, they won’t do you any good.

3. Get the Hearing Aid Fitted When You First Buy it

Getting the right hearing aids begins before you start actually shopping and there is a lot to it. During your hearing exam at the audiologist, it’s important to tell the truth about what you can and can’t hear. You might end up with hearing aids that aren’t right for your level or type of hearing loss. For instance, some hearing aids by design pick up a high-frequency sound. If your hearing loss impedes your ability to hear mid-range or low sounds, the hearing aids won’t work right for you.

Your lifestyle, in many cases may not seem well compatible with hearing aids. If you have to be talking on your phone allot you will need to get a hearing aid that has Bluetooth technology.

Make a note of when you feel your hearing aids aren’t functioning correctly or you wish they did something different when you’re still in the trial period. You can go back and talk about those concerns with your hearing aid technician. You might need a different type of device or you could just need an adjustment.

Be sure you purchase your hearing aids from a seller that does fittings, too. They won’t work if they are too big for your ears.

4. Neglected Maintenance

Knowing when and how to maintain your hearing aids are the keys to success. Even if you’ve had hearing aids before you should take the time to learn how to take care of your new device.

After you get the hearing aids, Take a close look at at the warning signs listed in the documentation including using hair care products with your hearing aids in or failing to turn them off when you remove it.

Don’t forget to read the maintenance guide and troubleshooting instructions.

Cleaning is a big part of caring for hearing aids, so make sure you understand all the hows and whys. The hearing aid is not the only thing that needs to be cleaned. Find out what the maker advises for cleaning your ears, too.

You have to take the initiative if you want to get the most from your hearing aids. It’s a continuing process from shopping to use. Schedule a hearing test with a hearing professional to learn what type of hearing aid will best fit your needs.

The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive personalized advice or treatment, schedule an appointment.
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