If you are using a hearing aids in Sri Lanka for the first time, it might seem a bit difficult and complicated for you. Over time however, and with continuous use, you will find becomes easier and easier, and soon you will be your own expert when it comes to using your hearing aid. You can buy many popular brands of analogue and digital hearing aids online in Sri Lanka, some of which are Oticon, Phonak, Signia and Starkey, and most of these brands are available in the country.

A hearing aid is a very small device which is operated with a battery. When using the hearing aid for the first time, you will need to insert the battery into the battery drawer, and the unit will start up no sooner you close the battery drawer. Hearing Aid Batteries online in Sri Lanka and Hearing Aid Service are available through many suppliers.

Switching your unit ON and OFF is a very simple task. To switch it on, simply close the battery drawer. The unit will start up immediately. To switch it off, just open the battery drawer completely.

Controlling general functions of your hearing aid, such as volume, programmes and other functions are pretty much the similar in all brands. However, your supplier will be more than happy to demo the unit for you before you start using it. You can even get user manuals for each make and model through an online hearing aid service.

Taking care of your hearing aids according to the guidelines given by the manufacturer is very important, if you want the unit to last a long time without malfunctioning. Some of the basic guidelines are given below.

-          Although most hearing aids are water resistant, it is recommended they be removed before taking a shower or bath, or going for a swim. Since it is an electronic device, if any water seeps into the unit, it could malfunction.

-          Do not immerse the hearing Aid in water.

-          Do not leave them in wet, humid places, such as in a bathroom.

-          When not in use, the battery drawer should be kept open to allow air circulation.

-          When handling your hearing aid, holding them over a soft surface in order to prevent any hard impact if you accidentally drop them.

-          Keep them in a case or drying kit when not in use, such as at night.

-          Keep them away from direct sunlight or heating surfaces, not should you leave them inside a hot car.

-          Keep your Oticon Hearing Aid away from chemicals, such as those in perfumes, hair sprays and cosmetics etc.

-          Do not use cleaning fluids or solvents to clean your Hearing Aid.

Hearing Aids need to be cleaned regularly in order to keep them in good working condition as they comprise of sensitive components and technology.

One thing that can damage your hearing aid is wax build-up within the unit. Wax, although is a natural phenomenon for your ear to keep it moist, is not good for your hearing aid. Hence it is a good idea to clean the hearing aid at least once every day. As mentioned earlier, you should not use water for cleaning your unit, but a suitable alternate is alcohol free wet wipes. Wearing gloves when cleaning your unit, can help prevent it getting contaminated with germs, especially for those using in-ear hearing aids.

Certain components of these devices need to be replaced regularly, such as;

·       Dome and Grip Tip – The disposable soft earpiece fitted to the end of the speaker, should never be cleaned. It should be replaced at least one every month.

·       Damper – This component should be replaced when required. If you are having low or no sound at all, this could mean you have a clogged damper.

·       Batteries – Usually a battery lasts between 3 and 10 days, according to use. Usually, the unit indicates when the battery becoming low on power. Leaving the battery drawer open when the unit is not in use means you have saved battery life.