The beauty of the winter season is all about crisp cool air, getting comfy in your warm home, and cheerful holiday gatherings. Your ears and hearing, however, can experience some real challenges during the nippy winter months. When it’s cold, protecting 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 those who depend on hearing aids, winter poses additional concerns, but with a few hands-on measures, you can safeguard your hearing and devices throughout the season.
Hearing and hearing aids can be negatively impacted by cold weather
Winter’s cold temperatures and harsh conditions can impact your ears and hearing devices in a number of ways. You will be better able to safeguard your hearing health against the impact of cold weather if you have a clear picture of the risks.
Increased risk of ear infections
As a result of fluctuating temperatures and inside germ exposure, infections are more likely when it’s winter. When your ears are exposed to cold air, any moisture inside can quickly cool and produce an environment favorable to infection. The risk of respiratory illnesses is also elevated by spending more time indoors, increasing exposure to germs, bacteria, and viruses.
Hearing aid risks when it’s cold
You’re more likely to encounter wet weather conditions during the winter which can expose your hearing aids to potentially detrimental moisture. Damage and malfunctions can be the consequence of rain, snow, and condensation from cold air. A hearing aid’s functionality and lifespan can be adversely impacted if the fragile electronics are jeopardized by moisture.
Dry air and ear canal irritation
The outdoor winter air tends to be dry and inside air can also be dry because of 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 prevalent during the colder months.
Protect your hearing this winter with these guidelines
Luckily, a few simple strategies can help minimize the impact of winter on your ears and hearing aids. You will keep your hearing aids in peak condition and you will be more comfortable by making these practices habit.
Keep your hearing aids safe and dry
Even in rainy or snowy weather, it’s essential to wear your hearing aids every day to maintain auditory activation.
However, to safeguard them:
- You can shield your device from wind and snow by using a protective sleeve or cover.
- Refrain exposing hearing aids to fast temperature changes, as this can cause condensation.
- Make use of a dehumidifying storage container overnight to remove any moisture.
Continue to be active socially
Even though it may be tempting to stay inside and isolated during the cold months, your hearing health depends on you remaining involved socially. Your brain’s auditory processing will remain strong and active by participating in conversation and attending social events. Hearing retention and cognitive function can even be preserved by watching a movie or having coffee with friends.
It’s necessary to maintain good ear hygiene
During the winter, it’s important that you keep your ears clean and dry.
The following are several tips to help you do just that:
- Use a soft cloth and warm water to clean around the ear opening if necessary.
- The danger of injury is increased by the use of cotton swabs which can force earwax further into your ear canal and should never be used.
- Gently dry your ears with a towel after exposure to moisture.
Safeguard your ears by controlling your winter illnesses
Since colds and flu are common in winter, take extra precautions to avoid infections that can affect your ears:
- Think about getting a flu vaccine and wearing a mask in crowded inside spaces if necessary.
- Stay hydrated and follow a healthy diet to support your immune system.
- In order to reduce your exposure to germs, clean your hands frequently.
For advice custom-tailored to your needs, contact us
If you detect increased ear discomfort, frequent ear infections, or problems with your hearing aids, get in touch with us. We will get your hearing aids ready for winter, offer customized solutions, and evaluate any concerns you may have. Minor issues can be detected early before they intensify allowing you to be ready for the difficulties of the season.
Schedule an appointment for an evaluation today.