Ear infections are common health matters that are caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Outer ear infection, middle ear infection, or inner ear infection — ear pain will affect hearing, and most of us are wondering, “Can I use a hearing aid while I have an ear infection?” The answer is not simple and will depend upon the type of infection and severity.
Ear infection and the hearing aid relationship
While using a hearing machine, the ears should be dry and clean in order to facilitate the proper operation of the hearing aid and reduce any risk of infection. Ear infections are typically accompanied by pain, swelling, and discharge, which can hamper the comfort of wearing a hearing aid, and can even aggravate the infection or develop other complications.
Risks of the use of a hearing machine
Greater risk of transmission of bacteria
If one has an active infection in the ear canal, the use of a hearing aid can cause the hearing machine to come into direct contact with the ear canal, which can foster the transmission of bacteria, especially if the ear canal is infected.
Discomfort and pain
If you already have swelling or pain in your ears, a hearing machine may make it worse. The friction between the device and the ear canal will contribute to the swelling and pain.
This may make the infection worse
Ear infections are generally accompanied by ear discharge. The use of a hearing machine, in case there is discharge in the ear canal, may prevent the discharge from flowing away easily and thereby worsen the infection.
When should you not wear a hearing aid?
If you experience the following symptoms, it would be wise not to wear a hearing device for some time:
Severe ear pain or swelling
If you have bad ear pain or swelling, do not use a hearing device so that you do not cause more discomfort or injury to the ear canal.
Discharge or discharge of fluids
If your ear canal is discharging fluids, using a hearing machine may damage the equipment and may even aggravate the infection.
Ear fever or inflammation
If your ears are visibly red or warm, it means the infection is more serious and you should not use your hearing machine to prevent irritating the ear canal further.
How to wear hearing aids safely?
If you still want to use the hearing machine, do the following:
Keep your ears dry
During an infection, it is very important to keep your ears dry. When wearing a hearing device, make sure there is no excessive moisture in the ear canal.
Clean and disinfect regularly
Make sure the hearing aid itself is clean and clean it every day. Avoid bacteria and reduce the risk of infection.
Follow your doctor’s advice
Before wearing a hearing aid with an infection, consult an expert otologist or audiologist. Your physician will inform you of whether or not you should wear a hearing aid based on the infection.
Conclusion
Though it is possible to wear hearing aids when you are suffering from an ear infection in most cases, when the infection symptoms are more powerful, it is better not to wear a hearing machine until your ear heals. Take care of your dry ears and cleanliness, check them frequently, and consult your doctor to ensure the health of your ears and proper hearing aid use.
Why should you choose a hearing machine by ELHearing?
At ELHearing, we strive to provide high-quality, comfortable,e and complete hearing aids. Whether you are a first-time user of hearing aids or need personalized services, we provide OEM/ODM Service and Support. Our hearing aids combine cutting-edge technology to give you comfortable wear and better hearing effects, making your life more convenient and comfortable.