Making the decision to wear hearing aids is a powerful step towards improved quality of life, connection, and communication. However, for many, the thrill is short-lived when daily use is impeded by pain or a poor fit.
One of the main causes of complete hearing aid discontinuation is discomfort, which can seriously impair your capacity to remain aware, involved, and socially active. Comfort should be a need, not an option, if you’re spending money on hearing aids.
Here’s how to guarantee a more comfortable and customized experience with your hearing aids, whether you’re new to them or looking to upgrade, so you can protect your hearing later in life without experiencing any pain or stress.
1. Have A Professional Fit First
Having your hearing aids fitted by a certified audiologist or hearing expert is the first and most important step. Generic gadgets or off-the-shelf solutions frequently result in problems like feedback, painful ears, or inappropriate amplification.
A professional fitting guarantees that the device is adjusted to your particular kind of hearing loss and customized to the precise shape of your ear canal. This gives you a strong base for everyday wear and helps you prevent pain and poor performance.
2. Pick A Look That Fits Your Lifestyle
There are four different types of hearing aids: completely-in-the-canal (CIC), in-the-canal (ITC), in-the-ear (ITE), and behind-the-ear (BTE). There are advantages and disadvantages to each style in terms of functionality, comfort, and visibility.
For instance:
- BTE devices are perfect for people with dexterity issues because they are frequently more robust and manageable
- Though more discreet and deeper in the ear canal, CIC solutions might not be appropriate for people with sensitive or narrow ear canals
Your audiologist can match you with a style that won’t cause pressure or irritation over time if they have a thorough understanding of your lifestyle, aesthetic preferences, and sensitivity levels.
3. Personalized Earmolds For A Custom Fit
Soreness may result from generic fittings, particularly after extended use. Many experts suggest custom earmolds to genuinely customise the comfort level of your hearing aids.
Here’s where technology truly excels. Employing digital scans of your ear, manufacturers are now using 3d printing to improve hearing aid design by producing precisely fitting earmolds. This lowers the possibility of slippage and feedback while simultaneously improving comfort and sound quality.
The days of “close enough” fittings are long gone thanks to 3D printing. Each mould is precisely tailored to fit your ears, resulting in a smooth, painless experience.
4. Pay Attention To Allergies And Materials
It could be the material rather than the fit if you have ever had itching, redness, or swelling around your hearing aid. Certain silicones, rubbers, or plastics used in hearing aids can cause allergic responses or sensitivities in certain persons.
Any allergies or skin sensitivities should always be disclosed to your audiologist. Hypoallergenic coatings and materials are widely accessible and can significantly improve everyday wear. It is better to let them know at the first appointment to avoid delays.