Using a hearing aid (ear machine) involves several steps, including insertion, proper fit, and maintenance. Here's a general guide on how to use a hearing aid effectively:
1. Understanding Your Hearing Aid
Before you start, familiarize yourself with the specific type of hearing aid you have (e.g., Behind-the-Ear (BTE), In-the-Ear (ITE), In-the-Canal (ITC), Completely-in-Canal (CIC)). Each type might have slight variations in insertion and usage. Your audiologist should have provided detailed instructions specific to your device.
2. Preparing the Hearing Aid
- Check the Battery: Ensure the battery is correctly inserted and has power. Replace the battery if needed.
- Clean the Hearing Aid: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the hearing aid. Make sure there is no wax or debris obstructing the sound output.
- Identify Right and Left: Most hearing aids are specifically designed for either the right or left ear. Look for markings (e.g., a red mark for the right ear and a blue mark for the left ear).
3. Inserting the Hearing Aid
The method of insertion depends on the type of hearing aid:
- Behind-the-Ear (BTE):
- Hold the hearing aid body and gently place it behind your ear.
- Guide the earmold or dome into your ear canal.
- Make sure the earmold/dome fits snugly and comfortably.
- In-the-Ear (ITE), In-the-Canal (ITC), Completely-in-Canal (CIC):
- Hold the hearing aid with your thumb and forefinger.
- Gently insert the hearing aid into your ear canal.
- Rotate the hearing aid slightly until it sits comfortably and securely.
4. Ensuring Proper Fit and Function
- Comfort: The hearing aid should feel comfortable. If you experience pain or discomfort, consult your audiologist.
- Sound Quality: Listen for clear and natural sound. If the sound is muffled, distorted, or absent, check the battery, clean the hearing aid, or consult your audiologist.
- Feedback: If you hear a whistling sound (feedback), it might indicate that the hearing aid is not properly inserted or that the earmold/dome does not fit correctly. Readjust the hearing aid or consult your audiologist. According to the video reference, escaping sound can cause whistling.
- Volume Control: Adjust the volume to a comfortable level.
5. Removing the Hearing Aid
- Gently pull the hearing aid out of your ear.
- For BTE models, first, remove the earmold/dome from your ear and then lift the hearing aid off your ear.
- Store the hearing aid in a safe and dry place.
6. Maintenance and Care
- Daily Cleaning: Clean the hearing aid daily with a soft, dry cloth.
- Wax Removal: Regularly check for and remove earwax from the earmold/dome and sound outlet.
- Battery Care: Replace batteries as needed and store them properly. Open the battery door at night to allow moisture to escape.
- Professional Cleaning: Schedule regular professional cleaning and check-ups with your audiologist.
7. Troubleshooting
- No Sound: Check the battery, make sure the hearing aid is turned on, and clean the sound outlet.
- Weak Sound: Replace the battery or adjust the volume.
- Distorted Sound: Clean the hearing aid or consult your audiologist.
- Feedback: Readjust the hearing aid, check the fit of the earmold/dome, or consult your audiologist.
