Winter is a beautiful season filled with frosty air, holiday merriment, and cozy indoor gatherings. However, the chilly months also bring unique challenges for your ears and the health of your hearing. Whether you’re combating the bitter cold, whipping winds, or increased risk of illness, safeguarding your hearing becomes essential.
Winter comes with increased challenges for people who use hearing aids, but you can keep your hearing aids in good working condition by using a few protective measures.
The effect of winter on hearing and hearing aids
Winter’s cold temperatures and harsh conditions can affect 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 understanding of the risks.
Your risk of getting an ear infection increases
Winter weather frequently triggers ear infections as a result of temperature fluctuations and increased exposure to inside germs. When your ears are exposed to cold air, any moisture inside can quickly cool and create an environment favorable to infection. Additionally, spending more time inside heightens exposure to viruses and bacteria, increasing the danger of respiratory illnesses that can affect ear health.
Cold weather and moisture risks for hearing aids
Hearing aids are sensitive to moisture, and winter weather is full of potential hazards. Damage and malfunctions can be the result of rain, snow, and condensation from cold air. Without proper care, moisture can jeopardize the fragile electronics in hearing aids, reducing their lifespan or functionality.
The ear canal can be irritated by dry air
Winter air tends to be dry, both outdoors and inside because of heating systems. In the winter, 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 reduced by using some simple tips. Employing these habits will keep you comfortable and your hearing devices functioning optimally.
Keep your hearing aids safe and dry
In order to preserve your auditory stimulation, it’s important that you wear your hearing aids daily, even if it’s snowing or raining.
Here are some key ways to protect them:
- Consider using a protective cover or sleeve for your hearing aids to shield them from snow and wind.
- Remove moisture accumulation by storing your hearing aids in a dehumidifying compartment overnight.
- Sudden temperature changes can cause condensation to build-up so avoid them whenever possible.
Stay social and active
Winter withdrawal can be tempting, but staying socially active is vital for your hearing health. Participating in conversations and attending social events helps keep your brain’s auditory processing sharp. Even simple activities like meeting friends for coffee or seeing a movie can improve cognitive function and hearing retention.
It’s important 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 accomplish that:
- After you have been exposed to moisture, dry your ears carefully with a towel.
- The risk of injury is increased by using cotton swabs which can pack 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.
Protect your ears by controlling your winter illnesses
In the winter you’re more prone to illnesses like the cold and flu so it’s important to take a few extra precautions:
- If necessary, wear a mask in crowded places and think about getting a flu vaccine.
- Clean your hands frequently to decrease exposure to germs.
- Keep hydrated and maintain a healthy diet to bolster your immune system.
For advice custom-tailored to your needs, contact us
Get in touch with us for a consultation if you’ve detected any problems with your hearing aids, ear discomfort, or regular ear infections. We can review your concerns, provide tailored solutions, and ensure your devices are ready for winter. 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.