As the vibrant colors of spring begin to blossom and the sun warms the earth, it’s not just our homes that could use a bit of refreshing. It’s also an ideal time to take stock of our healthcare routines, including our audiology practices. Whether you wear hearing aids or simply want to ensure your hearing health is well cared for, spring is the perfect season to revamp your audiology routine.
Check Your Hearing Aids
Approximately 28.8 million U.S. adults could benefit from hearing aids. For those who wear hearing aids, spring is an excellent time to check and clean your devices. Start by inspecting your hearing aids for any visible damage or signs of wear. Clean the exterior of your hearing aids using a soft, dry cloth, remaining careful not to get moisture into the device’s openings.
Next, replace the batteries if needed, and consider scheduling a professional cleaning and maintenance appointment with your audiologist. They can deep clean your hearing aids, check for any internal issues and make adjustments to ensure optimal performance.
Update Your Hearing Protection
If you’re regularly exposed to loud noises, whether you work with power tools or love watching frequent action movies at The Roxy Theater, it’s crucial to protect your hearing. Take this opportunity to assess your hearing protection gear. Replace any worn-out earplugs or earmuffs and consider investing in high-quality custom hearing protection if you don’t already have it.
Schedule a Hearing Evaluation
Even if you don’t currently wear hearing aids, monitoring your hearing health regularly is essential. Schedule a hearing evaluation with your audiologist to assess your baseline hearing and identify any changes or concerns. Early detection of hearing loss can lead to better treatment outcomes, so don’t delay your hearing check-up.
Practice Good Ear Care Habits
In addition to regular check-ups and cleanings, good ear care habits are essential for maintaining your hearing health. Avoid inserting objects into your ears, such as cotton swabs or fingers, as they can push wax further into the ear canal and potentially damage the eardrum.
Instead, gently clean the outer ear with a damp cloth. If you experience excessive earwax buildup or other ear-related issues, consult your audiologist for guidance.
Stay Informed
Finally, make an effort to stay informed about advancements in audiology and hearing health. Follow reputable sources like medical websites and hearing health organizations and take a look at our blog library for fresh content.
By incorporating these spring cleaning tips into your audiology routine, you can ensure that your hearing health remains in top condition. Remember, your hearing is precious, so take the time to care for it properly and contact Western Montana Hearing and Speech to schedule an audiology appointment today.