Winter is a wonderful season full of frosty air, holiday cheer, and comfy indoor get-togethers. However, the chilly months also bring unique challenges for your ears and the health of your hearing. Whether you’re combating the bitter cold, blustery winds, or increased risk of illness, protecting 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 order by making use of a few protective measures.
Hearing and hearing aids can be negatively impacted by cold weather
There are a number of ways that your ears and hearing aids can be impacted by winter’s cold conditions. Understanding these risks can help you take the appropriate measures to safeguard your hearing health.
Increased risk of ear infections
Because 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 cool quickly and produce an environment favorable to infection. Also, 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
Hearing aids can be damaged by moisture, and winter weather has lots of potential hazards. Snow, rain, and even condensation from cold air can lead to malfunctions or damage. Without proper care, moisture can jeopardize the delicate electronics in hearing aids, decreasing their lifespan or functionality.
The ear canal can be aggravated by dry air
Winter air tends to be dry, both outside and indoors as a result of heating systems. This dryness can cause your skin, including the skin in your ear canal, to become aggravated, flaky, or itchy, making ear discomfort more prevalent during the colder months.
Guidelines to protect your hearing this winter
The good news is that the impact of winter on your ears and hearing aids can be reduced by using some simple tips. You will keep your hearing aids in top condition and you will be more comfortable by making these practices habit.
Keep hearing aids dry and safe
Even in snowy or rainy weather, it’s important to wear your hearing aids every day to maintain auditory activation.
However, to protect them:
- Avoid exposing hearing aids to fast temperature changes, as this can cause condensation.
- Consider utilizing a protective cover or sleeve for your hearing aids to safeguard them from snow and wind.
- Use a dehumidifying storage compartment overnight to remove any moisture.
Remain social and active
Although it may be tempting to stay inside and secluded during the cold months, your hearing health depends on you remaining active socially. Engaging in conversations and attending social events helps keep your brain’s auditory processing sharp. Even simple activities like meeting friends for coffee or watching a movie can enhance cognitive function and hearing retention.
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 accomplish that:
- The risk of injury is increased by the use of cotton swabs which can jam earwax further into your ear canal and should never be used.
- If necessary, clean around the ear openings with a soft cloth and warm water.
- After you have been exposed to moisture, dry your ears gently with a towel.
Manage winter illnesses to protect your ears
In the winter you’re more prone to sickness like the cold and flu so it’s important to take a few extra safety measures:
- Consider getting a flu vaccine and wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces if necessary.
- In order to decrease your exposure to germs, wash your hands frequently.
- Bolster your immune system by maintaining a healthy diet and keeping well hydrated.
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 will get your hearing aids ready for winter, offer customized solutions, and assess any concerns you may have. Regular check-ups help catch minor issues before they get worse, keeping you prepared for the season’s difficulties.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
