The beauty of the winter season is all about frosty cool air, getting comfy in your warm home, and cheerful holiday get-togethers. Your ears and hearing, however, can experience some real challenges during the nippy winter months. Whether you’re combating the bitter cold, whipping winds, or increased risk of illness, safeguarding your hearing becomes crucial.
For people who depend on hearing aids, winter presents added concerns, but with a few hands-on measures, you can protect your hearing and hearing aids throughout the season.
Hearing and hearing aids can be negatively affected by cold weather
There are several ways that your ears and hearing aids can be affected by winter’s cold conditions. Understanding these risks can help you take the appropriate measures to protect your hearing health.
Increased risk of ear infections
Winter weather often results in ear infections due to temperature fluctuations and increased exposure to inside germs. When your ears are exposed to cold air, any moisture inside can cool quickly and generate an environment conducive to infection. The risk of respiratory illnesses is also elevated by spending more time inside, heightening exposure to germs, bacteria, and viruses.
Hearing aid risks when it’s cold
Hearing aids can be damaged by moisture, and winter weather has plenty of potential hazards. Snow, rain, and even condensation from cold air can lead to malfunctions or damage. Without appropriate care, moisture can jeopardize the sensitive electronics in hearing aids, decreasing their lifespan or functionality.
The ear canal can be irritated by dry air
The outside winter air tends to be dry and indoor air can also be dry as a result of heating systems. This dryness can cause your skin, including the skin in your ear canal, to become aggravated, flaky, or itchy, making ear discomfort more prevalent in the winter.
Tips to protect your hearing this winter
The good news is that the impact of winter on your ears and hearing aids can be minimized by using some simple tips. Implementing these habits will keep you comfortable and your hearing devices functioning optimally.
Keep hearing aids dry and safe
Even in snowy or rainy weather, it’s crucial to wear your hearing aids every day to preserve auditory activation.
Here are some key ways to safeguard them:
- Consider utilizing a protective cover or sleeve for your hearing aids to safeguard them from snow and wind.
- Eliminate moisture accumulation by keeping your hearing aids in a dehumidifying container overnight.
- Avoid exposing hearing aids to fast temperature changes, as this can cause condensation.
Continue to be active socially
Although it may be tempting to stay inside and isolated during the cold months, your hearing health depends on you remaining active socially. Participating in conversations and going to social events helps keep your brain’s auditory processing strong. Even basic activities like meeting friends for coffee or watching a movie can boost cognitive function and hearing retention.
It’s important to practice good ear hygiene
During the winter, it’s essential that you keep your ears clean and dry.
The following are several tips to help you accomplish that:
- After you have been exposed to moisture, dry your ears gently with a towel.
- If needed, clean around the ear openings with a soft cloth and warm water.
- The danger of injury is increased by the use of cotton swabs which can jam earwax further into your ear canal and should never be utilized.
Manage winter illnesses to protect your ears
Since colds and flu are prevalent during the winter, take extra measures to avoid infections that can affect your ears:
- Clean your hands frequently to decrease exposure to germs.
- If necessary, wear a mask in crowded places and consider getting a flu vaccine.
- Bolster your immune system by maintaining a healthy diet and staying well hydrated.
For advice custom-tailored to your needs, contact us
If you notice increased ear discomfort, frequent ear infections, or issues with your hearing aids, reach out to us. We can assess your concerns, provide personalized solutions, and ensure your devices are ready for winter. Minor problems can be detected early before they escalate allowing you to be ready for the difficulties of the season.
Schedule an appointment for an evaluation today.
