Siemens presents the first earwax protection system for hearing instruments

Editor: Those of you who have experience with in-the-ear hearing aids know that problems are often due to ear wax and moisture entering the aid through the sound opening. Read what one of the manufacturers has done to address that issue.

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The "critical point" of custom hearing instruments has always been the opening through which the sound leaves the hearing aid. This opening may not be plugged however, due to its position, it is directly exposed to moisture or cerumen, which can find their way into the hearing aid and can damage the sensitive electronic systems.

Receivers clogged with cerumen and debris have in the past been by far the most frequent reasons for customer complaints and repairs to in-ear hearing aids.

Siemens now presents an innovative membrane technology which can seal the in-ear hearing aid and thus effectively prevent the intrusion of cerumen and moisture. The exposed side of the membrane, which is fitted directly at the sound opening of the hearing aid, can easily be cleaned. All that is necessary is to wipe off the hearing aid and the opening every day with a soft cloth - nothing more.

Every three months - or sooner, if the sound quality seems to have deteriorated - the "C-Guard" membrane should be checked. This can be done by the wearer or a family member. This simply involves holding the hearing aid up to a bright source of light. If light is reflected in the opening, then the membrane is all right. Otherwise the old membrane can be removed in a simple procedure and replaced by a new one. Using the plastic stylus provided, this can be done by the wearer in only a few seconds.

Beginning in April, all new in-ear hearing aids from Siemens will be fitted with "C-Guard".