Winter is a wonderful season filled with crisp air, holiday merriment, and comfy indoor get-togethers. However, the chilly months also bring unique challenges for your ears and hearing health. Whether you’re dealing with the bitter cold, blustery winds, or increased risk of illness, protecting your hearing becomes essential.
For those who rely on hearing aids, winter poses additional concerns, but with a few proactive measures, you can safeguard your hearing and devices throughout the season.
Hearing and hearing aids can be negatively impacted by cold weather
There are a number of ways that your ears and hearing aids can be impacted by winter’s cold conditions. You will be better able to protect your hearing health against the effect of cold weather if you have a clear understanding of the risks.
Your risk of getting an ear infection rises
Winter weather frequently results in ear infections as a result of temperature fluctuations and increased exposure to inside germs. Moisture inside of your ear can, when exposed to cold air, cool down quickly leaving your ears more susceptible to an infection. Additionally, spending more time inside elevates exposure to viruses and bacteria, increasing the risk of respiratory illnesses that can affect ear health.
Hearing aid risks when it’s cold
You’re more likely to encounter wet weather conditions in the winter which can expose your hearing aids to potentially detrimental moisture. Snow, rain, and even condensation from cold air can result in malfunctions or damage. A hearing aid’s functionality and lifespan can be negatively affected if the fragile electronics are jeopardized by moisture.
The ear canal can be aggravated by dry air
Winter air tends to be dry, both outside and inside as a result of heating systems. In the winter, the skin of your ear canal can dry out causing itching, flaking, and overall discomfort.
Protect your hearing this winter with these guidelines
Fortunately, a few simple approaches can help minimize the impact of winter on your ears and hearing aids. Employing these habits will keep you comfortable and your hearing devices working optimally.
Keep your hearing aids safe and dry
In order to preserve your auditory stimulation, it’s crucial that you wear your hearing aids every day, even if it’s snowing or raining.
However, to safeguard them:
- Quick temperature changes can cause condensation to build-up so avoid them whenever possible.
- Make use of a dehumidifying storage container overnight to eliminate any moisture.
- Consider using a protective cover or sleeve for your hearing aids to safeguard them from snow and wind.
Stay social and active
Though it might be tempting to stay inside and isolated during the cold months, your hearing health depends on you remaining active socially. Your brain’s auditory processing will remain sharp and active by engaging in conversation and attending social events. Even simple activities like meeting friends for coffee or watching a movie can improve cognitive function and hearing retention.
Practice good ear hygiene
During the winter, it’s essential that you keep your ears clean and dry.
Here are a number of key tips:
- Avoid utilizing cotton swabs, which can jam wax deeper into the ear canal and raise the risk of injury.
- If necessary, clean around the ear openings with a soft cloth and warm water.
- After you have been exposed to moisture, dry your ears gently with a towel.
Manage winter sicknesses to safeguard your ears
In the winter you’re more vulnerable to illnesses like the cold and flu so it’s important to take some extra safety measures:
- In order to reduce your exposure to germs, clean your hands regularly.
- Stay hydrated and practice a healthy diet to bolster your immune system.
- Consider getting a flu vaccine and wearing a mask in crowded inside spaces if necessary.
For advice personalized to your needs, contact us
If you notice increased ear discomfort, frequent ear infections, or problems with your hearing aids, reach out to us. We will get your hearing aids ready for winter, provide personalized solutions, and evaluate any concerns you may have. Minor problems can be identified early before they escalate allowing you to be ready for the challenges of the season.
Schedule an appointment for an evaluation today.
