Home / health / 8 Mistakes First-time Hearing Aid Users Should Avoid

8 mistakes first-time hearing aid users should avoid

8 mistakes first-time hearing aid users should avoid

Advancements in the healthcare sector have enabled millions of patients to use certain things to improve their quality of life. For instance, one might use hearing aids to improve communication capabilities, such as for improved audibility. While learning to use a new tool, like a hearing aid, is important, there are also some errors that one should avoid for the best results. Here are six common mistakes first-time hearing aid users should avoid.

Ignoring the instructions
A healthcare professional may offer the basic steps and care associated with using a hearing aid. These devices come with an instruction manual that is more detailed in nature. However, people usually ignore the instructions in the manual and use the device straight out of the box. This may result in missing out on some vital information about the hearing aid and its usage. Therefore, when one buys a healthcare tool, one should go through the basics to learn how it works and use essential features to increase its ease of use. A few often-overlooked features include noise filters and Bluetooth connectivity. One can also use the manual to experiment with the device and find the best ways to improve its usability.

Being impatient
Someone who uses healthcare tools like hearing aids will take some time to get used to it. It’s just like the eyes adjusting to a new pair of spectacles. However, many people who use hearing aids for the first time assume they will immediately be able to reap its benefits. It is important to keep in mind the adjustment phase when using ear devices. This involves wearing them consistently to become accustomed to the feeling of having a device in the ear. One can begin by wearing them for a few hours at a time during the first few days and gradually increasing the time until they can be worn for longer periods.

Not being honest about the levels of hearing loss
This is one of the most common errors one makes when taking a hearing exam. Not being honest about the level of hearing loss could result in one being prescribed an aid that isn’t suitable for their needs. Being truthful during the hearing exam can help one get the ideal hearing aid without having to replace it time and again. For instance, some listening tools are better for people with hearing loss in the high-frequency, while others are optimum for individuals with mid-frequency hearing loss. One might also choose the wrong type of device. For example, a behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aid may address severe hearing loss, while assistive in-ear hearing devices work for mild-to-moderate hearing loss. An easy way to avoid this error is by speaking to the audiologist about the features one wishes to have in their hearing aid when the device is being used during the trial period.

Failing to carry spare batteries
Although the batteries on a hearing aid may take a significant amount of time to discharge, they will eventually run out of power. However, many people underestimate how long a charge will last and do not carry a spare set, which is a common mistake since batteries often do not perform according to the numbers on the specification sheet. For example, if a brand says the product has a battery lifespan of ten days, the calculations are based on a specific type of usage and environment. The life of the hearing aids depends on how frequently one uses them and the external environment. For example, if one is frequently in noisy environments, the assistive hearing tools may work overtime to cancel noise. This might cause the battery to run out of power at times and require immediate replacement. Therefore, it could benefit one to carry a spare set of batteries if they use hearing aids.

Skipping regular maintenance
Every electronic product, including healthcare tools like hearing aids, comprises tiny parts. These require regular care and maintenance to ensure they work efficiently. So, if one skips this routine requirement, the hearing aids might get damaged much faster than expected. One must ensure they read the user manual thoroughly. For instance, the instructions may specify whether it is safe to use hair products such as heating tools or hair sprays while wearing the assistive device. One should also pay attention to the guide for troubleshooting instructions to address common issues. Furthermore, one must remember that hearing aids might be sensitive to moisture, and one might need to store them in a cool, dry place. Maintaining ear hygiene is also a step towards keeping the hearing aids clean.

Not getting a hearing aid fitting
Hearing aids must fulfill multiple essential requirements. They need to amplify sound, be easy to insert and remove and provide a comfortable fit within the ear. Achieving all of these goals requires careful design and engineering to ensure that the hearing aid is functional, convenient, and comfortable for the user. Therefore, an individual must undergo the fitting process before finalizing the purchase, which includes having the hearing tested to determine the power of the hearing aid and having molds of the ear and measurements taken.

Failing to track results
After one has undergone the fitment process, it is essential to take notes on how the hearing aid feels and performs. If the individual has trouble hearing in big rooms, they must make a note of it. One should also assess if one ear seems tighter than the other. Lastly, the individual must also write down what they like about the hearing aid. Combining these notes could help create custom, tiny adjustments to help the hearing aids be comfortable and effective.

Not determining the utility of the device
Each individual follows a different lifestyle, which means they might require a specific type of hearing aid. For example, if one is out a lot, they might need audio tools that are rugged and water-resistant. In such situations, one could benefit in the long haul by paying more for these features up-front. One should remember that they will usually use the hearing aid for a couple of years, which makes it imperative to get them tailored to their lifestyle.

Recommended

Tips to Manage Age-related Macular Degeneration

Tips to Manage Age-related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a condition threatening one’s eyesight and general health. In AMD, the macula, the part of the eye that helps produce the most detailed and sharpest vision, starts to break down and thin, resulting in vision loss. It is one of the most prevalent causes of blindness in people aged 60 or older. Though there is no definite cure for AMD, some things can postpone its onset or lower its severity. Being aware of family history Family history and genetics are one of the leading causes of AMD. So, if you have a first-degree relative with AMD, your chances of developing it are also higher. Hence, you must be vigilant and educate yourself on the potential AMD signs, such as the inability to adapt to low light conditions, difficulty identifying faces, and straight lines looking wavy. Knowledge of these symptoms can help you reach out to an ophthalmologist and get timely treatment while AMD is still in an early stage. Getting routine comprehensive medical checkups In the early stages of AMD, you might not experience any symptoms. Hence, routine comprehensive eye exams with an ophthalmologist can help with timely diagnosis and treatment. It holds even for adults 40 or older with no risk factors or signs because this is when you may develop early AMD symptoms or experience changes in vision.
Foods to Eat and Avoid After Dental Implants

Foods to Eat and Avoid After Dental Implants

Dental implants are a major surgical procedure. Hence, you must take the necessary post-operative measures to ensure a speedy recovery. One of the first things you will feel after the surgery is hunger, as dental implants demand abstaining from food for six hours since the procedure temporarily impacts your chewing ability. So, you must adhere to selective foods and avoid some, especially for two weeks. Therefore, here’s a list of foods to eat and avoid: Foods to eat Smoothies In the initial days post-surgery, you may be unable to chew your favorite food. So, the next best thing is drinking it as a smoothie. Smoothies are wholesome and tasty meals. You can make them with whatever vegetable or fruits you like, ensuring they have a high nutritional value and are rich in vitamins. Muffins You might be unable to eat the muffins on the first or the second-day post-surgery, but after the initial few days, you can easily enjoy a good muffin. They are easy to chew and are very delicious. Hence, they can be an incredible snack or breakfast option following dental implant surgery. Potatoes They are versatile and soft. You can prepare them in different ways. So, even if you eat the same ingredient, you will not get bored.
Atrial Fibrillation – Causes, Signs, and Remedies

Atrial Fibrillation – Causes, Signs, and Remedies

Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is characterized by an irregular heart rhythm or arrhythmia in the atria or the heart’s upper two chambers. It causes a disturbance in the typical cycle of the electrical impulses in the heart. The condition results in a rapid and chaotic heart rhythm and poor blood movement from the upper chambers to the ventricles or the lower chambers. Below, we address the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and management of AFib. Causes AFib, or a change in the electrical signals in the heart, can affect anyone, regardless of age. But it is more prevalent in older people. A few risk factors that amplify the condition’s susceptibility are: Heart diseases People with an underlying heart condition, like a heart attack, coronary artery disease, and heart failure, have a greater risk of AFib. Hypertension If left unchecked, high blood pressure can strain the heart and aggravate the risk of this disorder. Familial link People with a family history of AFib have a greater chance of suffering from the condition. Sleep apnea This sleep disorder can also increase a person’s susceptibility to AFib, especially if it is severe. Besides the above, other chronic conditions like diabetes, asthma, and thyroid also put a person at risk of this heart problem.
13 Tips to Make a Low-Vision Friendly Home

13 Tips to Make a Low-Vision Friendly Home

If you are one of the millions affected by macular degeneration, you must know that this degenerative eye disease can make everyday activities difficult. Even something as simple as reading a book or watching TV can be challenging. For example, you can do a few things to stay comfortably at home with low vision. In this article, we will share 13 tips on making a low-vision-friendly home to make everyday living easier. What is macular degeneration? It is a condition that impacts the macula, which is the central part of the retina, and occurs when the macula deteriorates or breaks down. Macular degeneration symptoms Symptoms of macular degeneration include blurred or distorted vision, difficulty reading or seeing fine details, and a change in color perception. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should see an eye doctor for a comprehensive dilated eye exam. Why does a low-vision-friendly home play a crucial part in patients with macular degeneration? A low-vision-friendly home design helps people with macular degeneration live as independently as possible while still enjoying their surroundings. In addition, it can provide them with a safe and functional environment to improve their contrast and visibility. Helpful tips for a low-vision friendly home Use bright and contrasting colors Using bright colors can help make objects more visible and easier to see.
Macular Degeneration – Causes, Symptoms, and More

Macular Degeneration – Causes, Symptoms, and More

Macular degeneration is a progressive disease that destroys the macula, the part of the eye that allows you to see fine details. It can make activities like reading, writing, and driving difficult or impossible. The disease typically occurs in older adults and can lead to blindness. While macular degeneration can be managed in its early stages, it has no cure. This article discusses the causes, risk factors, symptoms, and treatments of macular degeneration. What is macular degeneration? Macular degeneration is a disease of the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of your eye. There are two types of macular degeneration: dry and wet. The former develops when the macula dries out and loses its function. Wet macular degeneration is a result of new blood vessels under the retina leaking fluid or blood, causing vision loss. Symptoms of macular degeneration The symptoms of macular degeneration can develop differently in individuals, but here are the typical signs one must note. One of the main symptoms is a gradual loss of central vision, which can progress over time and may not be noticeable at first. Additional symptoms are difficulty reading small print or close-up objects, trouble seeing in dim light or when looking up from a low angle, problems with depth perception and peripheral vision, and poor night vision.
What is Eczema and How to Treat It

What is Eczema and How to Treat It

Eczema is a chronic skin disease characterized by dry, red, and itchy skin. It typically appears around the arms, elbows, and knees; however, it can show up anywhere. As the condition can flare up due to various triggers, it is vital to understand its nature and how to treat it. This article provides a guide to everything one needs to know about eczema, from its causes and symptoms to treatment options and helpful management tips. What is eczema? Eczema is a skin condition that can be both painful and itchy. It can also be embarrassing, as it often appears as a rash on the face, hands, or other visible areas of the body. Because eczema weakens your skin’s barrier, you’re also more susceptible to infection. Is eczema contagious? There is no scientific evidence to support the idea that eczema is contagious. There are some reports of people with eczema who have also had close family members with it, but these cases are rare and not always linked. Something in the person’s environment (such as dust mites or other allergens) may trigger the condition in someone who has never had it before. Symptoms of eczema Eczema is a skin condition that can be extremely frustrating for those who suffer from it.