Hearing aids are supposed to fit into your life and give you access to situations that your hearing loss makes challenging. But, hearing aids aren’t designed to get wet, and can become damaged if exposed to too much moisture. So, how does one go about exercising with hearing aids? Should you remove them, or wear them? How can you prevent them getting damaged?
Exercising with Hearing Aids- yes or no?
Most modern hearing aids made today carry an IP67 or IP68 rating. This means that the aids are largely protected against splashes and occasional exposure to moisture. However, this doesn’t mean that they should sit in sweat for a long period of time. For that reason, it might be wise to consider removing your hearing aids if you don’t need them. Obviously, if you are following a class, or holding a conversation, or out on the road, you need them! So it’s ok to wear them if you follow a few basic rules.
Try to limit the moisture
Do what you can to limit the amount of sweat your aids are exposed to. Try wearing a sweat band, and use a towel to regular mop up any excess sweat around your head.
Dry off immediately
Straight after exercising, before you shower, carefully dry the outside of your aids and the inside of the battery compartments using a tissue or a soft cloth. Make sure to remove the battery and do not reuse it until the aids are completely dry. If you find that the battery itself has become wet, do not reuse it at all. Place the hearing aids in a drying container or electric dryer if you have one.
Keep them dry nightly
If you intend to wear your aids for exercise on a regular basis, it’s a good idea to invest in an electronic dryer for them. These units can be purchased from your audiologist quite reasonably, and they make sure that your aids are dried thoroughly before you put them back into your ears. These dryers should be used every night.
Long Term Maintenance
Regular servicing of hearing aids is always recommended, but it’s especially important if you exercise and sweat in your hearing aids. They should be serviced at least once a year. Also remember that you you see any signs of moisture damage, or if you hear anything different, take your hearing aids to your audiologist as soon as possible.
And when you need new aids?
Mention your exercise needs and preferences to your audiologist when you are next considering replacing your hearing aids. Certain models are more resistant to moisture, while others may be more vulnerable. Some rechargeable hearing aids resist water better because they are completely sealed, so this might be something to consider if you intend to exercise while wearing your hearing aids.
Do you have any questions or experiences about exercising with hearing aids? Contact us, or comment below.