We’ve noticed some common questions popping up at Inman Audiology lately, and we’re thrilled to address them in this blog post. With summer now in full swing, we want to make sure you know how to take care of your hearing health and your hearing aids so you can continue to go on adventures and live life to the fullest. Are you ready to dive into the questions?
Question: Itchy Ear
“This is my first summer with hearing aids, and one of my ears is very itchy. I’m not a ‘sweaty’ person, but I wonder if sweat or the heat could be the cause. I have a dryer that I use every night, and I’m careful not to get water in my ear. How can I get rid of the itching?“
Answer:
As the temperature rises, so can the irritation in our ears – especially for those of us wearing hearing aids. If you’re feeling the itch, you’re not alone! Here are some tips that might help:
- Find the Cause: Itchy ears can have many causes, including infections like otitis externa or dermatitis. Schedule an appointment, and we’ll help you find the culprit.
- Check Your Fit: Ill-fitting hearing aids can sometimes cause itchiness. If yours are causing discomfort, reach out to us and we can make a simple adjustment.
- Do Not Scratch: Tempted to scratch? It can be tough but resist the urge as much as possible. Scratching can worsen the itch and lead to further irritation.
- Be Gentle: Never insert foreign objects into your ear canals or when cleaning your ears. Too much cleaning can disrupt the natural pH balance and cause issues.
If you’re experiencing itchy ears while wearing your hearing aids, we’re here to help. We can alleviate your symptoms and ensure your devices fit comfortably, no matter the season!
Question: Live Music Letdown
“I haven’t attended a concert in decades, and I want to make sure that I’m doing everything I can to protect my hearing. Should I leave my hearing aids in? Turn them off? What’s the best way to enjoy live music while taking care of my ears?”
Answer:
We’re thrilled to hear that many of our patients are gearing up to enjoy some live music this summer, but before you hit those venues, let’s talk about your hearing health.
Generally speaking, concerts can get pretty loud, often reaching decibel levels that could harm your hearing. We recommend removing your hearing aids and inserting earplugs instead. Ear plugs can buffer the intensity of the sound while still allowing you to enjoy the music. Also, be sure to keep a safe distance from the speakers.
And, if you want to invest in a pair of earplugs that are comfortable, custom-tailored, and even come with music-filtering options, reach out to us! We would be happy to assist you.
Question: No Time to Dry
“The temperature is really starting to rise, and I feel like a hearing aid dryer would be beneficial. If I have a rechargeable aid, can I still use a dryer? If so, when do I charge my hearing aid? I work full time, coach softball, and we have other activities. Help!”
Answer:
We totally understand all of this and fear not, we’ve got some handy solutions to keep your hearing aids dry AND fully charged so you can stay on the go and comfortable this summer.
One option to keep your hearing aids dry is desiccant bead inserts. Many hearing aid manufacturers offer these little beads that you can just pop into your charging case. They work wonders when it comes to absorbing moisture, ensuring your hearing aids stay nice and dry.
If your charging case is already jam-packed, you might want to invest in a home hearing aid dryer! We have several in the office for you to consider. Do you want the Cadillac? Then you want the ReDux. If you want something to help in your day to day? Then you want a hearing aid saver.
Question: Fishing Fanatic
“I like to fish in the summer. What should I do with my hearing aids when I’m on the boat?”
Answer:
This is a great question and something many of our patients wonder about. Here are some tips for enjoying your time on the water while keeping your hearing aids safe and sound:
- If you’re fishing on calm waters, it’s generally fine to keep your hearing aids in. But if there’s loud wind noise, setting up a mute program can provide more comfort. Once you’re settled, you can go back to your everyday program for conversation.
- If you anticipate rough waters or splashing, you probably want to invest in a waterproof storage container to keep your hearing aids safe and dry.
- If you’re worried about your hearing aids slipping out while you’re fishing, you can invest in OtoClips or Earbands for some peace of mind. These accessories help ensure a snug fit while you’re out on the water.
Audiologists and Hearing Aids in Troy, MI
At Inman Audiology, we’re here to make sure you can enjoy your favorite summertime activities worry-free!
If you would like to learn more about keeping your hearing aids at their best, don’t hesitate to contact us.
We’re always happy to help.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment with the best audiologists in Troy, MI.