A cochlear implant is an electronic device designed to provide sound perception for individuals with moderate to profound sensorineural hearing loss. This technology helps to bypass damaged parts of the ear, directly stimulating the auditory nerve to send sound signals to the brain.
Cochlear Implant Components and Water Resistance
A cochlear implant system consists of two main parts: an internal implant and an external sound processor. The internal implant is surgically placed under the skin and is generally sealed to resist bodily fluids, making it water-resistant once the surgical site has healed. Conversely, the external sound processor, which contains microphones and electronics, is typically not waterproof and is susceptible to moisture damage.
Electronic devices often have an Ingress Protection (IP) rating, which indicates their resistance to dust and water. Different cochlear implant models and accessories may have varying IP ratings, influencing their ability to withstand water exposure. For instance, some newer sound processors might be splash-proof or water-resistant, but this does not mean they can be fully submerged without additional protection.
Showering Safely with Your Cochlear Implant
Remove the external sound processor before showering to prevent damage. This ensures the device remains dry and functional. Once removed, the internal implant, which is under the skin, is safe from water exposure.
To hear while showering, specialized waterproof accessories are available. These include waterproof cases, sleeves, or specific waterproof processors designed to encase the external device. For example, the Aqua+ system can make certain sound processors waterproof for submersion, allowing use in showers. Confirm compatibility with your cochlear implant model and follow manufacturer instructions. If newly implanted, avoid direct water streams on the surgical site until your doctor confirms it is fully healed, which may take about a week.
Other Water Activities
Water activities like swimming also require specific precautions. The external sound processor should be removed for most swimming, unless specialized waterproof accessories are used. Some accessories, such as the Aqua+ silicone sleeve, allow for submersion in fresh, salt, or chlorinated water, typically up to a certain depth and duration.
Manufacturers often offer specific waterproof coils or swim processors designed for submersion, enabling individuals to hear even underwater. Activities such as bathing, using saunas, hot tubs, or being out in heavy rain also require careful consideration of the external processor’s exposure to moisture. Always consult the cochlear implant manufacturer’s guidelines for specific water resistance information relevant to your device model and any recommended accessories.
Protecting Your Cochlear Implant from Moisture
Protecting your external sound processor from moisture is part of daily care. After any moisture exposure or daily use, employ drying techniques.
Many users employ a drying kit or an electronic dehumidifier to remove moisture from the sound processor overnight. These drying devices often use desiccants, like silica gel packets or specialized drying bricks, that absorb moisture from the hearing device. Proper storage of the cochlear implant in a dry place when not in use also helps preserve its longevity. In the event of significant accidental water exposure, it is important to immediately remove the device, dry it thoroughly using appropriate methods, and contact your audiologist or the manufacturer for further guidance.