The beauty of the winter season is all about frosty cool air, getting comfy in your warm home, and cheerful holiday get-togethers. However, the nippy months also bring unique challenges for your ears and the health of your hearing. When it’s cold, safeguarding your hearing is crucial, whether you’re out in the bitter cold wind or dealing with the challenges of protecting your health from illness.
For people who depend on hearing aids, winter presents additional concerns, but with a few proactive measures, you can protect your hearing and devices throughout the season.
The impact of winter on hearing and hearing aids
Winter’s cold temperatures and severe conditions can impact your ears and hearing devices in a number of ways. You will be better able to protect your hearing health against the impact of cold weather if you have a clear picture of the risks.
Greater risk of ear infections
Winter weather often results in ear infections because of temperature fluctuations and increased exposure to inside germs. When your ears are exposed to cold air, any moisture inside can cool quickly and produce an environment favorable to infection. Also, spending more time inside elevates exposure to viruses and bacteria, increasing the danger of respiratory illnesses that can impact ear health.
Hearing aid risks when it’s cold
You’re more likely to experience wet weather conditions during 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 adversely affected if the fragile electronics are jeopardized by moisture.
Dry air and ear canal irritation
Winter air tends to be dry, both outdoors and inside due to heating systems. In the winter, the skin of your ear canal can dry out causing itching, flaking, and overall discomfort.
Tips to safeguard your hearing this winter
Luckily, a few basic 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
Even in snowy or rainy conditions, it’s essential to wear your hearing aids every day to maintain auditory activation.
Here are some key ways to safeguard them:
- Consider using a protective cover or sleeve for your hearing aids to safeguard them from snow and wind.
- Sudden temperature changes can cause condensation to build-up so avoid them whenever possible.
- Make use of a dehumidifying storage container overnight to remove any moisture.
Stay social and active
Though it may be tempting to stay inside and secluded during the cold months, your hearing health depends on you remaining active socially. Your brain’s auditory processing will remain strong and active by engaging in conversation and going to social events. Hearing retention and mental function can even be maintained by seeing a movie or having coffee with friends.
Practice good ear hygiene
During the winter, it’s important that you keep your ears clean and dry.
Here are a number of key tips:
- If needed, clean around the ear openings with a soft cloth and warm water.
- Carefully dry your ears with a towel after being exposed to moisture.
- Avoid utilizing cotton swabs, which can push wax deeper into the ear canal and increase the danger of injury.
Protect your ears by controlling your winter sickness
During the winter you’re more prone to illnesses like the cold and flu so it’s important to take some extra precautions:
- Keep hydrated and maintain a healthy diet to support your immune system.
- If necessary, wear a mask in crowded places and consider getting a flu vaccine.
- In order to reduce your exposure to germs, clean your hands regularly.
For advice custom-tailored 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 can review your concerns, provide tailored solutions, and ensure your devices are winter-ready. Regular check-ups help catch minor problems before they get worse, keeping you prepared for the season’s difficulties.
Schedule an appointment for an evaluation today.