When an ear infection occurs, hearing aid users often wonder if they can continue wearing their devices. It is not advisable to wear a hearing aid during an active ear infection. Doing so can intensify discomfort and inflammation, potentially hindering the ear’s natural healing process.
Why Wearing a Hearing Aid During an Ear Infection is Not Recommended
Wearing a hearing aid during an ear infection can worsen the condition and lead to complications. The device, particularly in-the-ear styles, traps moisture and creates a warm, enclosed environment. This warmth and moisture provide an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, potentially exacerbating the infection and prolonging healing.
Ear infections involve inflammation, swelling, and sometimes discharge within the ear canal. Inserting a hearing aid into an already sensitive ear can cause increased pain, irritation, and discomfort. The device’s physical presence can rub against tender skin, leading to further irritation or micro-abrasions, allowing bacteria to penetrate deeper.
Discharge from an infected ear poses a risk to the hearing aid’s delicate components. Moisture, pus, or other fluids can seep into the device, causing corrosion, malfunction, or permanent damage to internal electronics. The hearing aid can also obstruct natural fluid drainage, increasing pressure and discomfort, potentially extending the infection’s duration.
Steps to Take When You Have an Ear Infection
If you suspect an ear infection, immediately remove your hearing aid from the affected ear. This allows the ear to “breathe” and helps reduce moisture and bacteria buildup that can worsen the infection.
Contact a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or audiologist, as soon as you notice signs of an ear infection. Prompt medical attention leads to a quicker diagnosis and appropriate treatment, which may include antibiotics or other medications. Delaying treatment can result in a more severe or prolonged infection.
While your ear is infected, thoroughly clean your hearing aid to remove any accumulated bacteria or debris. Use a non-alcohol based disinfectant wipe or spray and a clean cloth, as alcohol can damage the device. Ensure the hearing aid is completely dry before storing it in a clean, dry case. Avoid inserting anything else into the ear canal unless specifically instructed by your healthcare provider.
Resuming Hearing Aid Use After an Ear Infection
After an ear infection, ensure it has completely cleared before resuming hearing aid use. The ear should be free of pain, swelling, and discharge, and medical clearance from your doctor is ideal. This ensures the ear canal has fully healed and is no longer susceptible to immediate reinfection or irritation.
Before reinserting your hearing aid, visually inspect your ear for lingering signs of infection, such as redness or residual discharge. Gently touch the ear to confirm no remaining tenderness or sensitivity. If any symptoms persist, consult your healthcare provider again.
Meticulously clean your hearing aid before reintroducing it to the ear. Use appropriate cleaning tools, such as a soft brush or wax pick, to remove wax or debris, and disinfect all surfaces with a non-alcohol based cleaner. This prevents reintroducing bacteria into the now-healthy ear canal. When resuming use, insert it gently and wear it for shorter periods, gradually increasing wear time as your ear readjusts.