The beauty of the winter season is all about crisp cool air, getting comfy in your warm home, and cheerful holiday gatherings. However, the nippy months also bring distinctive challenges for your ears and the health of your hearing. When it’s cold, protecting your hearing is crucial, whether you’re out in the bitter cold wind or dealing with the challenges of safeguarding your health from sickness.
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
Winter’s cold temperatures and harsh conditions can impact your ears and hearing devices in a number of ways. Understanding these risks can help you take the appropriate steps to protect your hearing health.
Your risk of getting an ear infection increases
Winter weather often triggers 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. Additionally, spending more time inside heightens exposure to viruses and bacteria, increasing the risk of respiratory illnesses that can affect ear health.
Cold weather and moisture risks for hearing aids
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 result 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 indoor air can also be dry because of heating systems. During the cold months, the skin of your ear canal can dry out causing itching, flaking, and overall discomfort.
Tips to safeguard your hearing this winter
Fortunately, a few basic approaches can help minimize the impact of winter on your ears and hearing aids. Implementing these habits will keep you comfortable and your hearing devices working optimally.
Keep your hearing aids safe and dry
Even in rainy or snowy weather, it’s important to wear your hearing aids every day to maintain auditory stimulation.
However, to safeguard them:
- You can shield your device from wind and snow by using a protective sleeve or cover.
- Make use of a dehumidifying storage compartment overnight to get rid of any moisture.
- Refrain exposing hearing aids to quick temperature changes, as this can cause condensation.
Continue to be involved socially
Winter isolation can be tempting, but staying socially involved is essential for your hearing health. Your brain’s auditory processing will remain sharp and active by engaging in conversation and attending social events. Hearing retention and mental function can even be preserved by seeing a movie or having coffee with friends.
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:
- Utilize a soft cloth and warm water to clean around the ear opening if necessary.
- After you have been exposed to moisture, dry your ears gently with a towel.
- Avoid utilizing cotton swabs, which can jam wax deeper into the ear canal and increase the risk of injury.
Protect your ears by controlling your winter sickness
Since colds and flu are prevalent in winter, take extra steps to avoid infections that can affect your ears:
- Bolster your immune system by preserving a healthy diet and keeping well hydrated.
- Wash your hands frequently to decrease exposure to germs.
- If necessary, wear a mask in crowded places and consider getting a flu vaccine.
Consult us for customized advice
If you notice 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, provide personalized solutions, and evaluate any concerns you might have. Minor issues can be detected early before they intensify allowing you to be ready for the challenges of the season.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
