Hearing aids can be a major convenience for those with hearing loss, often allowing you to live a normal life. It's common knowledge that hearing aids only work if you actually wear them, of course, but there are other mistakes you could be making that could decrease the effectiveness of your hearing aid. Knowing these mistakes can help you avoid them.

#1: Not purchasing a dehumidifier case

Moisture on a hearing aid can lead to mold and mildew growth. This, in turn, increases your chances of ear infection, which can further compromise your hearing. The source of the moisture is from regular daily wear, and the fix is simply drying the hearing aids out overnight when you aren't wearing them. Small dehumidifier storage cases are designed to sit on top of a dresser or nightstand, but they have a small fan inside that draws the moisture out of the hearing aid. They aren't expensive, but they are well worth the small investment to ensure your hearing aid continues to work properly and that you stay free of infections.

#2: Skipping routine cleaning

Your hearing aid should be cleaned every night. Dirt and wax can block the small speakers on the device, making it difficult to hear anything. Dirt also increases the chances of an ear infection. Specific cleaning instructions vary, depending on the hearing aid brand and style. In general, most styles require using a small hearing aid wax pick and brush to remove any visible dirt from the surface, then wiping down everything with a clean cloth. Those with tubes can be blown out with a small air bulb. If the hearing aid is particularly dirty, look in the owner's manual to see the best cleaning solution — often it is just a damp cloth, although ear molds can sometimes be removed and washed with soapy water.

#3: Ignoring follow-up appointments

A visit with an audiologist isn't a one time affair. You will need to keep regular appointments to continue to assess your hearing and needs. For most people, this is an annual visit during which the audiologist will perform routine hearing tests and then adjust the sensitivity and the fit of the hearing aid if necessary. In some cases, you may need to go in more often. This is generally only if you are still actively losing your hearing or if you are new to hearing aids. Failure to keep up with these appointments can lead to a poor fit on the hearing aid or greater hearing loss that could have been avoided if caught early.

For more help, contact a company like Audiology Consultants, P.C.