Beverly Hills Hearing Center was founded in 1983 by Bonnie Baehr. Prior to that, Dr. Baehr practiced at the House Ear Clinic in Los Angeles as a staff audiologist for seven years. She was involved with diagnostic testing, hearing aid evaluations, research and rehabilitation. Dr. Baehr did her clinical fellowship training at the Veterans Administration Outpatient Clinic in downtown Los Angeles. She is a member of the American Academy of Audiology, American Speech Language and Hearing Association, California Academy of Audiology and Academy of Doctors of Audiology.
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Ear infections can strike unexpectedly and disrupt daily routines. They may cause discomfort, drainage, or swelling, affecting how hearing aids fit or function. Fortunately, with the right approach, it’s possible to manage ear infections while keeping hearing aids in good condition.
Identifying an ear infection early is important for minimizing its impact. Common symptoms include ear pain, redness, itching, or discharge. Sometimes, an infection may lead to a temporary increase in hearing loss. For individuals wearing hearing aids, any changes in how the devices fit or perform can also signal an underlying issue.
Scheduling a hearing health exam is an excellent step to confirm whether symptoms relate to an ear infection or another condition. Prompt diagnosis allows for appropriate treatment, reducing the risk of long-term complications.
Hearing Aid Use During an Infection
When an ear infection develops, it may be necessary to adjust how hearing aids are used. Removing the devices can help prevent irritation and allow the ear to heal. While this might seem inconvenient, prioritizing ear health will ensure better hearing in the long run.
If wearing hearing aids is still important during this time, consult a hearing health professional to discuss options. They might recommend using hearing aids intermittently or adjusting settings to reduce pressure on the affected ear.
Cleaning Hearing Aids to Prevent Further Issues
Proper maintenance of hearing aids is always important, but it becomes even more critical during an ear infection. Ear discharge or bacteria can easily transfer to hearing aids, increasing the risk of prolonged infection. Use a soft, dry cloth to clean hearing aids after each use.
Devices with removable components, such as earmolds or domes, should be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. Avoid using water or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the devices. Consider scheduling a hearing health professional cleaning service to ensure hearing aids are free of harmful contaminants. This is especially helpful if cleaning at home feels overwhelming during an infection.
Preventing Future Ear Infections
Prevention is key in reducing the likelihood of ear infections, particularly for those relying on hearing aids. Keeping the ears clean and dry is a simple yet effective strategy. Moisture and bacteria are common culprits for infections, and minimizing their presence helps protect ear health.
Using a dehumidifier for hearing aids can prevent excess moisture buildup in the devices, possibly contributing to infections. Also, regular hearing health exams provide an opportunity to check for signs of irritation or other issues that could lead to infections.
When to Resume Normal Hearing Aid Use
Most hearing health professionals recommend waiting until symptoms, such as pain or discharge, have completely resolved. This helps avoid reintroducing bacteria into the ear or causing further irritation.
Once the infection is cleared, it’s helpful to inspect hearing aids for any lingering signs of damage or contamination. Replacing parts like earmolds might be necessary to ensure they’re safe and comfortable to use again.