The charm of the winter season is all about crisp cool air, getting comfy in your warm home, and cheerful holiday get-togethers. Your ears and hearing, however, can face some real challenges during the nippy winter months. When it’s chilly, protecting your hearing is essential, whether you’re out in the freezing cold wind or dealing with the challenges of safeguarding your health from illness.
Winter comes with increased challenges for people who use hearing aids, but you can keep your hearing aids in good working condition by making use of a few protective measures.
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 impact of cold weather if you have a clear understanding of the risks.
Your risk of getting an ear infection rises
Winter weather often leads to ear infections because 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. The risk of respiratory illnesses is also increased by spending more time indoors, heightening exposure to germs, bacteria, and viruses.
Cold weather and moisture risks for hearing aids
Hearing aids can be damaged by moisture, and winter weather has plenty of potential hazards. Snow, rain, and even condensation from cold air can result in malfunctions or damage. Without appropriate care, moisture can compromise the delicate electronics in hearing aids, reducing their lifespan or functionality.
The ear canal can be aggravated by dry air
Winter air tends to be dry, both outdoors and inside due to heating systems. During the cold months, the skin of your ear canal can dry out causing itching, flaking, and overall discomfort.
Safeguard your hearing this winter with these tips
The good news is that the impact of winter on your ears and hearing aids can be minimized by utilizing some simple tips. Employing 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 important that you wear your hearing aids every day, even if it’s rainy or snowy.
However, to protect them:
- Eliminate moisture accumulation by storing your hearing aids in a dehumidifying container overnight.
- Quick temperature changes can cause condensation to build-up so avoid them whenever possible.
- Think about using a protective cover or sleeve for your hearing aids to safeguard them from snow and wind.
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. Partaking in conversations and attending social events helps keep your brain’s auditory processing strong. Hearing retention and cognitive function can even be preserved by seeing a movie or having coffee with friends.
Practice good ear hygiene
During the winter, it’s essential that you keep your ears clean and dry.
Here are a few key tips:
- The risk of injury is increased by the use of cotton swabs which can pack earwax further into your ear canal and should never be used.
- After you have been exposed to moisture, dry your ears carefully with a towel.
- If needed, clean around the ear openings with a soft cloth and warm water.
Manage winter illnesses to safeguard your ears
In the winter you’re more susceptible to sickness like the cold and flu so it’s important to take a few extra precautions:
- If necessary, wear a mask in crowded places and consider getting a flu vaccine.
- Clean your hands regularly to decrease exposure to germs.
- Keep hydrated and maintain a healthy diet to support your immune system.
Consult us for tailored advice
If you detect increased ear discomfort, frequent ear infections, or problems with your hearing aids, get in touch with us. We can review your concerns, provide personalized solutions, and ensure your devices are winter-ready. Minor issues can be identified early before they intensify allowing you to be ready for the difficulties of the season.
Schedule an appointment for a consultation today.