Cochlear implants have revolutionized the lives of countless individuals with severe hearing loss. These remarkable devices can reconnect you with the world of sound, enriching your personal and professional spheres.
Imagine:
- Engaging in effortless conversations with loved ones, both on the phone and face-to-face, allows you to finally catch those quick jokes or asides you might have missed before.
- Following presentations and meetings with newfound clarity boosts your productivity at work. No more straining to hear or asking colleagues to repeat themselves.
- Appreciating the full spectrum of music and movies and rediscovering the joy of sound. Immerse yourself in the rich soundscapes you may have missed for years.
Cochlear implants open doors to a world of possibilities. But like any valuable technology, proper care is essential to ensuring optimal performance.
Keeping Your Implant in Top Condition
Listening Lab Singapore is committed to your long-term success with cochlear implants. Here’s a guide to maintaining your device:
- Gentle Cleaning: Regularly wipe down the external components with a soft, damp cloth provided by your audiologist. Avoid harsh chemicals or submerging the processor in water.
- Regular Inspections: Inspect the external processor and its accessories for any damage or wear and tear. Look for signs of fraying on the cables or discolouration on the processor. Report any concerns to your audiologist promptly.
- Charging: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper charging of processor batteries. This may involve a docking station or a portable charger.
- Keeping it Dry: Avoid exposing your implant to excessive moisture or humidity as this can damage the internal components. If the processor and accessories come into contact with water, dry them in an electrical or dehumidiying box at night. Take care when swimming or showering, and consider using waterproof accessories when necessary.
- Battery Life: Be mindful of your battery life and replace it when needed. Dead batteries can lead to frustrating moments of silence. Consider keeping spare batteries on hand.
Troubleshooting and Overcoming Challenges:
Even with proper care, minor issues can arise. Here are some common challenges and how to address them:
- Reduced Sound Quality: If you experience a decline in sound quality, check for dirt or debris on the external components. You can also restart your processor. If the issue persists, contact your audiologist.
- Skin Irritation: Mild skin irritation around the implant site is sometimes possible, especially if you sweat or wear your hair up frequently. Consult your doctor to ensure proper skin care practices. Try using gentle, fragrance-free products around the implant area.
- Technical Difficulties: If your implant malfunctions, contact your audiologist or the CI support team. They can troubleshoot the problem and advise on the next steps.
Beyond Maintenance: Maximizing Your Potential
Here at Listening Lab Singapore, we believe in empowering you to get the most out of your cochlear implant. We offer additional resources to help you on your journey:
- Audiological Rehabilitation: Our team of audiologists can provide personalised training and support to help you adjust to hearing with your implant. This may involve additional mapping of the implant, practising speech and sound recognition, and listening exercises in noisy environments.
- Support Groups: Connecting with others who share your experience can be invaluable. We can connect you with local cochlear implant user groups where you can share experiences, ask questions, and encourage one another.
Are you ready to unlock the full potential of your cochlear implant? Head to Cochlear Implants by Listening Lab in Singapore and book an appointment for a consultation.