Traveling With Hearing Aids: What to Pack Before Your Trip

Traveling is exciting, but if you wear hearing aids, a little extra preparation can make your trip much smoother. Whether you’re heading to the beach, flying across the country, or taking a weekend road trip, packing the right items can help you avoid unnecessary stress and keep your hearing aids working their best while away from home.

Extra Batteries or Charging Equipment

One of the most important things to pack is a reliable power source for your hearing aids. If your devices use disposable batteries, bring more than you think you’ll need. If you wear rechargeable hearing aids, don’t forget your charger, charging cable, and wall adapter.

It’s also a good idea to keep chargers and batteries in your carry-on bag when flying so they are always accessible.

Cleaning Supplies

Travel can expose hearing aids to sweat, dust, sand, and moisture. Packing a small hearing aid cleaning kit can help keep your devices performing properly throughout your trip.

Helpful items include:

• Cleaning brush
• Wax guards or filters
• Soft dry cloth
• Drying container or dehumidifier

Protective Storage Case

Always bring a protective hearing aid case for times when you remove your devices, such as during swimming, showering, or sleeping. A sturdy case helps prevent loss or accidental damage while traveling.

Backup Accessories

If you use hearing aid accessories such as Bluetooth streamers, remote microphones, or TV connectors, remember to bring those along if needed. These accessories can make conversations and entertainment easier while away from home.

Important Contact Information

Before your trip, save your hearing care provider’s phone number in your contacts. It may also help to take a picture of your hearing aid serial numbers and warranty information in case your devices are lost or damaged.

Don’t Forget Travel-Friendly Habits

A few simple habits can help protect your hearing aids while traveling:

• Avoid leaving hearing aids in hot cars
• Remove devices before swimming or showering
• Keep hearing aids dry in humid environments
• Check battery levels daily

Enjoy Your Trip With Confidence

Traveling with hearing aids doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little planning and the right supplies packed ahead of time, you can focus less on your devices and more on enjoying your trip, making memories, and staying connected to the people around you.

📍 141 E Aurora Rd. Ste 3. Northfield, OH 44067
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

Why People With Hearing Loss Often Feel Tired

Many people are surprised to learn that hearing loss can cause more than just difficulty hearing — it can also lead to constant fatigue. In fact, many individuals with untreated hearing loss feel mentally and physically exhausted by the end of the day without realizing why.

When hearing becomes more difficult, the brain has to work much harder to understand speech and fill in the sounds that are being missed. This extra effort is known as “listening fatigue.” Instead of hearing conversations naturally, the brain is constantly trying to piece together words, interpret sounds, and keep up with communication. Over time, this can become draining.

Background noise makes the problem even worse. In restaurants, family gatherings, meetings, or crowded public places, people with hearing loss often struggle to separate speech from surrounding noise. Concentrating so intensely for long periods can lead to headaches, stress, irritability, and mental exhaustion.

Hearing loss can also affect emotional well-being. Many people begin avoiding social situations because conversations become frustrating or embarrassing. This isolation and increased stress can contribute to feelings of anxiety and fatigue as well.

The good news is that hearing treatment can make a major difference. Hearing aids help reduce the strain on the brain by making sounds and speech clearer and easier to process. Many patients report feeling less tired, more engaged, and more confident once their hearing loss is treated.

If you or a loved one frequently feels worn out after conversations or social events, it may be time to schedule a hearing evaluation. Better hearing can improve not only communication, but also overall energy and quality of life.

📍 141 E Aurora Rd. Ste 3. Northfield, OH 44067
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

How Air Conditioning and Fans Can Affect Hearing Aid Performance

During warmer months, fans and air conditioning can sometimes make hearing more difficult for hearing aid users. The constant humming and airflow may interfere with speech clarity and create extra background noise.

Direct airflow from ceiling fans, vents, or portable fans can also hit hearing aid microphones and cause a “whooshing” sound. This is especially common with behind-the-ear hearing aids.

Air conditioning may also dry out the ears, leading to irritation or discomfort for some wearers.

Why Fans and Air Conditioners Create Listening Challenges

Hearing aids are designed to amplify speech while reducing unwanted background noise. However, sounds from fans, air conditioning units, ceiling fans, or vents can sometimes compete with speech and make listening more difficult.

These sounds may:

• Create constant background humming
• Produce rushing air noises near microphones
• Make speech sound softer or less clear
• Cause listening fatigue in noisy environments

Even modern hearing aids with advanced noise reduction can occasionally struggle when airflow is directed closely toward the microphones.

Tips to Improve Hearing Aid Performance

• Avoid sitting directly under vents or fans
• Keep hearing aids clean and free of dust
• Use noise reduction or wind management settings if available
• Store hearing aids in a dehumidifier overnight
• Schedule regular cleanings and adjustments

Modern hearing aids are designed to help reduce background noise, but small adjustments can make a big difference in comfort and clarity.

If you notice changes in sound quality or increased difficulty hearing around fans or AC, our office is happy to help check and clean your devices to keep them performing their best.

📍 141 E Aurora Rd. Ste 3. Northfield, OH 44067
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

Hearing Aids & Moisture: Protecting Your Devices During Warmer Weather

Warmer weather means more time outdoors, vacations, yard work, exercise, and summer fun—but it also means more heat, humidity, and sweat. While hearing aids are built to handle everyday life, moisture is still one of the most common causes of hearing aid problems and repairs.

Understanding how heat and moisture affect your devices can help keep your hearing aids working their best all summer long.

Hearing aids are small electronic devices worn close to the skin, making them naturally exposed to sweat, humidity, and sudden temperature changes. Even a small amount of moisture can work its way into microphones, receivers, or battery compartments over time.

Too much moisture exposure may cause:

• Distorted or weak sound
• Static or crackling noises
• Intermittent performance
• Corrosion inside the device
• Shortened battery life
• Complete device failure in severe cases

The good news is that a few simple habits can go a long way in protecting your investment.

Tips to Protect Your Hearing Aids in Warm Weather

1. Wipe Your Hearing Aids Daily

During hot weather, sweat and oils build up more quickly. Use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe your hearing aids at the end of the day.

Pay special attention to:

• Microphone openings
• Receiver wires
• Domes and earmolds
• Charging contacts

Keeping them clean helps prevent moisture buildup and sound blockage.

2. Use a Hearing Aid Dryer or Dehumidifier

A hearing aid dehumidifier is one of the best tools for moisture protection. These systems help remove trapped moisture overnight while your hearing aids are not being worn.

This is especially helpful for:

• People who sweat frequently
• Outdoor workers
• Golfers, walkers, runners, or gardeners
• Humid summer climates

Using a dryer regularly may help extend the life of your hearing aids.

3. Remove Hearing Aids Before Swimming or Showering

Even water-resistant hearing aids should never be submerged unless specifically designed for it.

Always remove your devices before:

• Swimming
• Showering
• Hot tubs
• Water sports
• Heavy rain exposure

Store them in a safe, dry place while enjoying water activities.

4. Be Careful Leaving Devices in Hot Cars

Extreme heat can damage hearing aid batteries and internal electronics. Never leave your hearing aids:

• On a car dashboard
• In direct sunlight
• Near windows
• In a hot vehicle for extended periods

High temperatures can warp components and reduce battery performance.

5. Keep Hair Products Away From Devices

Sunscreen, bug spray, hairspray, and styling products can clog hearing aid microphones and openings.

A good rule:
Apply products first, then insert your hearing aids afterward once everything is dry.

6. Watch for Excessive Sweat During Exercise

Exercise is great for your health—but sweat can be tough on hearing aids.

If you work out regularly:

• Wear a sweatband or hat
• Consider hearing aid sleeves or covers
• Remove devices briefly during very intense workouts if safe to do so
• Dry devices thoroughly afterward

7. Open the Battery Door at Night

For battery-operated hearing aids, opening the battery door overnight allows trapped moisture to escape and helps preserve battery life.

Rechargeable devices should still be wiped dry before placing them on the charger.

Signs Moisture May Be Affecting Your Hearing Aids

Contact your hearing care provider if you notice:

• Sound fading in and out
• Muffled hearing
• Devices shutting off unexpectedly
• Weak volume
• Static noises
• Shorter battery life than normal

Sometimes a professional cleaning and drying can solve the issue before bigger repairs are needed.

Summer is a great time to schedule a hearing aid cleaning or check-up. Routine maintenance helps ensure your devices stay clean, dry, and performing properly through the hottest months of the year.

A little prevention can help you avoid costly repairs and keep you hearing clearly all season long.

Final Thoughts

Heat, humidity, and moisture are part of everyday life during warmer weather—but they do not have to damage your hearing aids. With regular cleaning, safe storage, and a few extra precautions, you can enjoy summer activities while protecting your devices and your hearing.

If you have questions about moisture protection, hearing aid dryers, or summer maintenance tips, your hearing care provider can help you find the best solutions for your lifestyle.

📍 141 E Aurora Rd. Ste 3. Northfield, OH 44067
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

Understanding Vertigo: More Than Just Feeling Dizzy

 Have you ever felt like the room was spinning when you stood up, rolled over in bed, or turned your head too quickly? That sensation may be more than simple dizziness—it could be vertigo.

Vertigo is a common condition that affects balance and can make everyday activities difficult and uncomfortable. While it can feel alarming, understanding the causes and treatment options can help you take the right steps toward relief.

What Is Vertigo?

Vertigo is the sensation that you or your surroundings are moving or spinning when there is actually no movement happening. Unlike general dizziness, vertigo is often tied to problems within the inner ear or balance system.

Episodes can last anywhere from a few seconds to several hours depending on the cause. Some people experience vertigo only once, while others deal with recurring symptoms.

Common Symptoms of Vertigo

Vertigo symptoms can vary from person to person, but commonly include:

• A spinning or swaying sensation
• Loss of balance or unsteadiness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Feeling lightheaded
• Difficulty focusing
• Motion sensitivity
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• A feeling of fullness in the ear

Many people notice symptoms worsen when changing positions, such as getting out of bed or looking upward.

What Causes Vertigo?

Several conditions can lead to vertigo. Some of the most common include:

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)

One of the most common causes of vertigo, BPPV happens when tiny calcium crystals inside the inner ear become displaced. Certain head movements can trigger sudden spinning sensations.

Inner Ear Infections

Inflammation or infections affecting the inner ear can interfere with balance signals being sent to the brain.

Ménière’s Disease

This inner ear disorder may cause vertigo episodes along with fluctuating hearing loss, tinnitus, and ear pressure.

Vestibular Migraine

Some migraines can affect the balance system and trigger vertigo symptoms even without a severe headache.

Head Injuries or Other Medical Conditions

In some cases, vertigo can be linked to concussions, circulation problems, or neurological conditions.

When Should You Seek Help?

Occasional dizziness may not always be serious, but recurring vertigo should not be ignored. It’s important to schedule an evaluation if you experience:

• Frequent spinning sensations
• Falls or balance issues
• Hearing changes
• Ringing in the ears
• Symptoms that interfere with daily life
• Sudden or severe vertigo episodes

A healthcare professional can help determine the underlying cause and recommend the appropriate treatment.

Treatment Options for Vertigo

The good news is that many forms of vertigo can be treated successfully. Treatment depends on the cause and may include:

• Balance repositioning exercises
• Vestibular rehabilitation therapy
• Medications
• Lifestyle or dietary changes
• Managing stress and migraine triggers
• Treatment of underlying ear conditions

For some patients, simple in-office maneuvers can provide significant relief.

Tips for Managing Vertigo at Home

While seeking professional care is important, these tips may help reduce symptoms:

• Move slowly when standing or changing positions
• Stay hydrated
• Avoid sudden head movements
• Use support when walking if feeling unsteady
• Limit caffeine, alcohol, and excess salt if recommended
• Get adequate rest

Don’t Ignore Balance Changes

Your balance system plays a major role in your everyday quality of life. If you’ve been experiencing spinning sensations, dizziness, or balance concerns, a professional evaluation can help identify the cause and guide you toward treatment options.

Taking care of your hearing and balance health today can help you feel steadier, safer, and more confident tomorrow.

📍 141 E Aurora Rd. Ste 3. Northfield, OH 44067
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

How Seasonal Allergies Can Affect Your Hearing

Seasonal allergies can be more than just an inconvenience — especially for people with hearing loss. That time of year filled with sneezing, itchy eyes, congestion, and constant sniffles can also bring unexpected changes in hearing. Many people notice their ears feeling plugged, sounds becoming muffled, or increased pressure and popping sensations during allergy season.

When allergies flare up, inflammation and congestion can affect the ears just as much as the nose and sinuses. Fluid can build up in the middle ear, creating pressure that blocks sound from traveling properly to the eardrum. This can lead to a temporary type of hearing difficulty known as conductive hearing loss. Some people may also experience dizziness, balance issues, vertigo, or even a temporary increase in tinnitus symptoms during severe allergy episodes.

The good news is that these hearing changes are usually temporary and often improve once allergy symptoms are under control. Managing seasonal allergies early and consistently can help minimize the impact on hearing and communication.

Here are a few helpful ways to manage allergy-related hearing issues:

1. Stay on top of medications
Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about which allergy medications may work best for your symptoms. Decongestants, antihistamines, and saline nasal sprays can often help reduce inflammation and fluid buildup that affect the ears.

2. Start treatment early
If allergies tend to hit around the same time every year, begin your allergy routine before symptoms fully arrive. Starting medications early may help reduce the severity of symptoms before they peak.

3. Be consistent during allergy season
Even when symptoms improve for a few days, pollen levels can quickly rise again. Taking medications consistently throughout allergy season can help keep symptoms under control.

4. Reduce allergen exposure
Wash your hands and face after spending time outdoors, and consider changing clothes after long periods outside. Pollen can easily cling to skin, hair, and clothing.

5. Monitor pollen counts
On days when pollen levels are especially high, limiting outdoor exposure may help reduce symptoms. Checking local pollen forecasts can help you plan ahead.

6. Communicate with others
If allergies are affecting your hearing, let friends, family, or coworkers know. Asking people to speak a little louder or more clearly can make conversations much less frustrating during flare-ups.

Seasonal allergies can temporarily affect hearing, balance, and overall communication, but proper treatment and prevention can make a big difference. Sometimes protecting your hearing during allergy season is just as important as managing the sneezing and congestion itself.

📍 141 E Aurora Rd. Ste 3. Northfield, OH 44067
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

How to Keep Hearing Aids Safe Around Pets and Children

Hearing aids are an important investment in better communication and quality of life — but they can also attract curious hands and paws. Small, lightweight, and easy to grab, hearing aids are surprisingly common targets for pets and young children. Taking a few simple precautions can help prevent damage, costly repairs, or even dangerous situations.

Why Pets and Children Are Drawn to Hearing Aids

Dogs especially are known for chewing on hearing aids because they are small and carry their owner’s scent. Cats may bat them around like toys, while young children are often curious about anything tiny and electronic.

Unfortunately, hearing aids can be:

• Easily damaged by chewing or dropping
• Lost in blankets, furniture, or carpeting
• Dangerous if swallowed, especially due to the batteries

That’s why safe storage and handling are so important.

Tips to Protect Hearing Aids at Home

Store Hearing Aids in a Safe Place

When hearing aids are not being worn, keep them in a protective case or charger and place them out of reach of children and pets. Avoid leaving them on:

• Nightstands
• Bathroom counters
• Kitchen tables
• Couch cushions

A secure drawer or high shelf is often the safest option.

Keep Batteries Secure

Hearing aid batteries can be harmful if swallowed. Always:

• Store extra batteries in a childproof container
• Dispose of used batteries immediately
• Keep battery doors closed securely

If a battery is ever swallowed, seek medical attention right away.

Travel and Visits With Family

If grandchildren are visiting or you are bringing pets along during travel, take extra precautions. Portable hearing aid cases are helpful for keeping devices protected while on the go.

It’s also a good idea to:

• Avoid leaving hearing aids unattended in hotel rooms
• Keep devices zipped inside bags when not in use
• Double-check charger cords and accessories are out of reach

What to Do if a Hearing Aid Is Damaged

If a hearing aid gets chewed on, dropped, or exposed to moisture:

1. Remove the battery or turn the device off immediately
2. Do not attempt major repairs at home
3. Contact your hearing care provider for professional evaluation

Even if the device still appears to work, internal damage may affect performance over time.

Hearing aids are designed to improve everyday life, and protecting them helps ensure they continue working properly for years to come. With a few simple habits and safe storage practices, you can help keep your hearing devices safe around both pets and children.

Whether you need professional cleaning, repairs, replacement accessories, or simply have questions about protecting your devices, our team is here to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and keep your hearing aids performing their best for years to come.

📍 141 E Aurora Rd Ste 3, Northfield, OH 44067
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

How Walt Disney World Supports Guests With Hearing Loss

Walt Disney World Resort is known around the world as one of the most popular and immersive amusement park destinations — welcoming millions of guests each year to experience its attractions, entertainment, and unforgettable memories. What many people may not realize, however, is that Disney also offers a wide range of accessibility resources for guests with hearing loss, helping make the parks more inclusive for everyone.

For visitors who are deaf or hard of hearing, Disney provides several helpful accommodations throughout the parks and resorts. Many attractions and live shows offer assistive listening devices, handheld captioning, or video captioning to improve communication and understanding during performances and rides. Select shows and events may also feature sign language interpretation on scheduled dates.

Guest Relations locations throughout the parks are available to help guests learn which attractions offer hearing assistance options and how to access them during their visit. Cast Members are also trained to assist guests with accessibility questions, helping create a smoother and more enjoyable experience from start to finish.

Whether it’s enjoying fireworks, riding attractions, or watching live entertainment, these resources help ensure guests with hearing loss can fully participate in the Disney experience alongside family and friends. Disney’s continued focus on accessibility is a reminder that magical experiences should be available to everyone.

📍 141 E Aurora Rd Ste 3, Northfield, OH 44067
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

What Happens During a Final Repair Check Before Your Hearing Aid Warranty Ends?

Hearing aids are an investment in your quality of life—and like any important device, they need proper care to keep performing their best. As your warranty period comes to an end, there’s one important step many patients overlook: the final repair check.

This quick but thorough evaluation can make a big difference in how well your hearing aids continue to perform after your warranty expires.

Why Is a Final Repair Check Important?

Most hearing aid warranties cover repairs for a limited time. Once that coverage ends, any future repairs may come out of pocket. A final check ensures that any hidden issues are caught and addressed while you're still covered.

Even if your hearing aids seem to be working fine, small problems can develop over time—things you might not notice right away.

What We Look For During the Check

During a final repair check, we take a close look at both the performance and physical condition of your devices.

Sound Quality Testing

We evaluate how your hearing aids are functioning:

• Are they producing clear, consistent sound?
• Is one ear weaker than the other?
• Any distortion or intermittency?

If anything seems off, we can send them in for repair before your warranty ends.

Deep Cleaning & Maintenance

Even well-cared-for hearing aids can build up:

• Wax
• Moisture
• Debris

We perform a deep clean, replace filters or domes if needed, and make sure everything is functioning properly.

Physical Inspection

We carefully inspect for:

• Cracks in the casing
• Loose or worn components
• Weak receivers or tubing
• Battery door issues

These small issues can lead to bigger problems if left unaddressed.

Performance Verification

Using specialized equipment, we check that your hearing aids are still meeting manufacturer specifications. This ensures you’re getting the amplification and clarity you were originally fit for.

What Happens If We Find an Issue?

If we detect anything concerning, we can:

• Send your hearing aids in for repair under warranty
• Replace faulty components
• Ensure everything is returned to you working like new

This can save you hundreds of dollars in future repair costs.

When Should You Schedule This?

We recommend scheduling your final repair check:

• 1–2 months before your warranty expires

This gives enough time for any repairs to be completed while you're still covered.

Don’t Skip This Step

A final repair check is quick, easy, and often overlooked—but it can make a big difference in the long-term performance of your hearing aids.

If you're unsure when your warranty expires, our team is happy to help you check and schedule an appointment.

We’re Here to Help

At Cardinal Hearing Center, we want to make sure you get the most out of your hearing aids—before and after your warranty ends.

Give us a call today to schedule your final check and keep your hearing at its best.

📍 141 E Aurora Rd Ste 3, Northfield, OH 44067
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com