A cochlear implant is an electronic medical device designed to restore hearing sensation for individuals with severe to profound hearing loss. This technology bypasses damaged parts of the inner ear, converting sound waves into electrical signals that stimulate the auditory nerve. A common question is whether this complex device can safely withstand exposure to water. The entire system is not uniformly waterproof, but advancements have made water compatibility a reality for most users today. Understanding the two main components is important for safe use around moisture.
The Two Parts of a Cochlear Implant
The cochlear implant system has two distinct sections: the internal component and the external sound processor. The internal implant, which includes the receiver-stimulator and the electrode array, is surgically placed beneath the skin and into the cochlea. This component is hermetically sealed within a durable titanium casing, making it impervious to bodily fluids and moisture. The internal part is fully waterproof and safe during activities like showering or swimming once the surgical site has healed.
The external component, known as the sound processor, is worn outside the body, typically behind the ear. This processor contains the microphone, battery source, and microelectronics that convert sound into digital code. Because it is exposed to the environment, it is the most vulnerable part of the system and requires protection against water, sweat, and dust. Manufacturers design these units with varying degrees of built-in water resistance for everyday moisture exposure.
Understanding Water Resistance Ratings
The protection level of the external sound processor is standardized using the Ingress Protection (IP) rating system. This international standard provides a clear, two-digit code that quantifies a device’s resistance to foreign particles and liquids. The first digit indicates protection against solids like dust, ranging from 0 to 6, with 6 being dust-tight.
The second digit indicates the device’s protection against liquids, with ratings up to 8. An IPX7 rating means the device can withstand temporary submersion up to one meter for 30 minutes. An IPX8 rating signifies protection against continuous submersion under manufacturer-specified conditions, such as one meter for 60 minutes. Many modern sound processors are rated at IP68, meaning they are highly protected against dust and can handle submersion in freshwater for a specified time. Water-resistant, which describes the base processor, is not the same as truly waterproof, which often requires an accessory for full submersion.
Safe Use During Water Activities
Daily Exposure and Showering
For daily activities like showering or bathing, the external sound processor should generally be removed. This is true even for devices with a high IP rating, as removal prevents unnecessary moisture buildup from steam or direct spray. If a user wishes to hear while showering, they must consult manufacturer guidelines, as some newer models handle this environment without an additional accessory.
Swimming and Submersion
For swimming, the sound processor must be protected using a manufacturer-approved waterproof accessory, such as a silicone sleeve or dedicated swim kit. These specialized accessories effectively seal the processor, allowing for full submersion. Some accessories enable submersion up to three meters for two hours, turning the water-resistant processor into a waterproof system for aquatic activities.
Corrosive Environments
The type of water matters for device longevity, even with a protective kit. Saltwater and chlorinated pool water are significantly more corrosive than freshwater due to their chemical content. Manufacturers often recommend using the accessory for all extended water use in pools or the ocean. High-humidity environments, like saunas or hot tubs, can also introduce damaging moisture and excessive heat, making it best practice to remove the external processor entirely before entering.
Device Care After Water Exposure
Following any water exposure, whether accidental or intentional, immediate and thorough drying of the sound processor is necessary. Moisture, even from sweat or high humidity, is a primary cause of electronic failure and can shorten the device’s lifespan. A dedicated drying system should be used nightly to draw out accumulated moisture.
These drying systems typically involve either an electronic dehumidifier that circulates warm, dry air or a simple container with desiccant materials. Desiccants work by absorbing moisture from the air surrounding the processor and often need to be replaced or reactivated periodically. If the processor was exposed to saltwater or chlorine, it should be gently wiped clean before being placed in the drying unit. If accidental, unprotected submersion occurs, the battery should be removed immediately, and the device placed in the drying unit for an extended period before attempting to turn it back on.