When you receive your first hearing aid, you'll have to attend a training appointment with your audiologist. That appointment will be where you learn how to take care of your hearing aid and how to use it properly. Here are a few of the key tips that you'll need to know to get the most from your hearing aids.

Invest in a Battery Tester

You can typically get a couple weeks from a hearing aid battery, but it can be hard to tell when a battery is ready to die. As you become more experienced with your hearing aid, it'll be easier to pick up on subtle changes. Having a battery tester accessible will make it easier for you to determine the strength left in your battery at any time. This may allow you to avoid having a battery die in the midst of a conversation, which could be embarrassing.

Keep Your Ears Clean

When you wear a hearing aid, it's important that you keep your ears and the hearing aid both clean. If you allow wax to build up in your ears, that wax can actually clog your hearing aid. Over time, this can lead to damage and will muffle sound transmission.

Request a Listening Tube

When you go into the audiologist to get your hearing aid, request a listening tube that you can bring home with you. This tube will allow you to test the sound transmission from the hearing aid. It's helpful when you're trying to isolate issues with the device such as inconsistencies or amplification variances. The sound that you hear through the tube should be clear, free of scratches, and consistent. If not, you'll want to have the hearing aid serviced.

Avoid Feedback

Audio feedback happens any time a sound gets amplified to the point that the microphone on the hearing aid actually detects it from the speaker. That will send the sound back into the hearing aid like new audio input. This can lead to a high-pitched whistle or squeal from the hearing aid, which can damage your ear. Keep your hearing aid fitted properly and adjust the volume to a level that allows you to hear without being excessive.

If you've been having trouble with your hearing, you'll likely be amazed by the difference you experience with a new hearing aid. With the tips here, you can make the transition an even more successful one.