Hearing loss is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Fortunately, advancements in hearing aid technology have made it easier than ever to address this issue. In-the-canal (ITC) hearing aids are a popular choice due to their discreet appearance and effectiveness. If you’re considering using ITC hearing aids, you might wonder how to insert them properly. In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide to help you insert ITC hearing aids with ease.
Step 1: Prepare Your Hearing Aid and Hands
Before you start, ensure your hands are clean and dry. You’ll also need to have your ITC hearing aids ready. Make sure the batteries are fresh, and the devices are clean and free from any debris.
Step 2: Identify the Right and Left Hearing Aids
Most ITC hearing aids are designed to fit in a specific ear. They are labeled as either ‘L’ for the left ear or ‘R’ for the right ear. It’s crucial to identify the correct hearing aid for each ear to ensure optimal performance.
Step 3: Hold the Hearing Aid Properly
Gently hold the ITC hearing aid between your thumb and index finger. Be sure to grasp it by the body of the hearing aid, not the faceplate or microphone, to avoid damage.
Step 4: Locate the Ear Canal Opening
With your free hand, use your fingers to gently pull the upper part of your ear, also known as the pinna, slightly upward and outward. This helps to straighten and open your ear canal for easier insertion.
Step 5: Align the Hearing Aid
Position the hearing aid so that the portion labeled ‘L’ or ‘R’ matches the corresponding ear. The body of the hearing aid should be pointing towards your ear canal.
Step 6: Insert the Hearing Aid
Gently and slowly insert the hearing aid into your ear canal. Be patient and avoid pushing or forcing it. You should feel a slight resistance, but it should not be painful. If you encounter discomfort, stop and reposition the hearing aid.
Step 7: Ensure a Proper Fit
Once the hearing aid is inserted, it should sit snugly in your ear canal without protruding. You can use a mirror to check its placement. If it feels loose or uncomfortable, remove it and try reinserting it, making sure it sits comfortably.
Step 8: Secure the Hearing Aid
Once the hearing aid is in place, let go of your pinna, and it should help hold the device securely in your ear. Gently wiggle your ear to ensure the hearing aid is stable.
Step 9: Repeat for the Other Ear
If you have ITC hearing aids for both ears, repeat the same process for the other ear.
Step 10: Test the Hearing Aid
Turn on your ITC hearing aids and test them by speaking or listening to sounds around you. Adjust the volume as needed until you are comfortable and can hear clearly.
Step 11: Seek Professional Guidance
While this guide provides general instructions for inserting ITC hearing aids, it is also beneficial to consult with an audiologist or hearing care professional for more guidance. They can ensure your hearing aids are tailored to your specific needs and that you are using them correctly.
In conclusion, inserting in-the-canal hearing aids may seem daunting at first, but with practice and patience, it becomes a routine part of your daily life. These small devices can significantly improve your quality of life by enhancing your hearing. At Mimitakara, we provide a variety of ITC hearing aids that offer both comfort and discreteness. Be sure to check out our selection of ITC hearing aids.