The charm 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 chilly winter months. Whether you’re dealing with the bitter cold, blustery winds, or increased risk of illness, safeguarding your hearing becomes essential.
For those who rely on hearing aids, winter presents additional concerns, but with a few proactive measures, you can safeguard your hearing and hearing aids throughout the season.
Hearing and hearing aids can be negatively affected by cold weather
There are a few ways that your ears and hearing aids can be impacted by winter’s cold conditions. You will be better able to safeguard your hearing health against the effect of cold weather if you have a clear understanding of the risks.
Increased risk of ear infections
Because of fluctuating temperatures and indoor germ exposure, infections are more likely when it’s winter. Moisture inside of your ear can, when exposed to cold air, quickly cool down leaving your ears more vulnerable to an infection. The risk of respiratory illnesses is also elevated by spending more time inside, increasing exposure to germs, bacteria, and viruses.
Hearing aid risks when it’s cold
You’re more likely to experience wet weather conditions in the winter which can expose your hearing aids to potentially damaging moisture. Snow, rain, and even condensation from cold air can result in malfunctions or damage. A hearing aid’s functionality and lifespan can be detrimentally impacted if the delicate electronics are compromised by moisture.
The ear canal can be aggravated by dry air
Winter air tends to be dry, both outside and indoors due to heating systems. This dryness can cause your skin, including the skin in your ear canal, to become inflamed, flaky, or itchy, making ear discomfort more common in the winter.
Guidelines to safeguard your hearing this winter
The good news is that the impact of winter on your ears and hearing aids can be decreased by using some simple tips. Implementing these habits will keep you comfortable and your hearing devices functioning optimally.
Keep hearing aids dry and safe
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 protect them:
- Remove moisture accumulation by keeping your hearing aids in a dehumidifying container overnight.
- You can safeguard your device from wind and snow by utilizing a protective sleeve or cover.
- Refrain exposing hearing aids to quick temperature changes, as this can cause condensation.
Remain social and active
Winter isolation can be tempting, but staying socially active is vital for your hearing health. Engaging in conversations and attending social events helps keep your brain’s auditory processing sharp. Hearing retention and mental function can even be preserved by seeing a movie or having coffee with friends.
It’s necessary to practice good ear hygiene
Maintaining clean and dry ears is crucial during winter.
The following are a few tips to help you accomplish that:
- Gently dry your ears with a towel after exposure to moisture.
- The risk of injury is increased by using cotton swabs which can force earwax further into your ear canal and should never be used.
- If needed, clean around the ear openings with a soft cloth and warm water.
Manage winter illnesses to protect your ears
Since colds and flu are common during the winter, take extra precautions to avoid infections that can impact your ears:
- Think about getting a flu vaccine and wearing a mask in crowded inside spaces if necessary.
- Support your immune system by preserving a healthy diet and staying well hydrated.
- Wash your hands frequently to decrease exposure to germs.
For advice personalized to your needs, contact us
If you notice increased ear discomfort, frequent ear infections, or issues with your hearing aids, get in touch with us. We will get your hearing aids winter-ready, offer customized solutions, and assess any concerns you may have. Minor problems can be identified early before they escalate allowing you to be ready for the difficulties of the season.
Schedule an appointment for an evaluation today.