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 chilly, safeguarding your hearing is essential, 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 order by using a few protective measures.
The effect of winter on hearing and hearing aids
Winter’s cold temperatures and severe conditions can affect your ears and hearing devices in several ways. Identifying these risks can help you take the appropriate steps to protect your hearing health.
Increased risk of ear infections
As a result of fluctuating temperatures and inside germ exposure, infections are more likely during the winter. When your ears are exposed to cold air, any moisture inside can quickly cool and produce an environment favorable to infection. Additionally, spending more time inside elevates exposure to viruses and bacteria, raising the risk of respiratory illnesses that can impact ear health.
Hearing aid risks when it’s cold
You’re more likely to experience wet weather conditions in 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 negatively affected if the delicate electronics are jeopardized by moisture.
The ear canal can be aggravated by dry air
The outdoor winter air tends to be dry and indoor air can also be dry because of heating systems. In the winter, the skin of your ear canal can dry out causing itching, flaking, and overall discomfort.
Guidelines to protect your hearing this winter
Fortunately, a few simple strategies 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 hearing aids dry and safe
Even in rainy or snowy conditions, 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.
- You can safeguard your device from wind and snow by using a protective sleeve or cover.
- Eliminate moisture accumulation by keeping your hearing aids in a dehumidifying container overnight.
Continue to be involved socially
Winter isolation can be tempting, but staying socially involved is necessary for your hearing health. Partaking in conversations and going to social events helps keep your brain’s auditory processing strong. Hearing retention and mental function can even be maintained by watching a movie or having coffee with friends.
It’s important to maintain good ear hygiene
Maintaining clean and dry ears is crucial during winter.
The following are a few tips to help you accomplish that:
- If needed, clean around the ear openings with a soft cloth and warm water.
- 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 jam earwax further into your ear canal and should never be used.
Safeguard your ears by controlling your winter illnesses
During the winter you’re more vulnerable 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 inside spaces if necessary.
- Reinforce your immune system by preserving a healthy diet and keeping well hydrated.
- In order to decrease your exposure to germs, clean your hands regularly.
Consult us for customized advice
If you detect increased ear discomfort, frequent ear infections, or problems with your hearing aids, reach out to us. We can review your concerns, offer personalized solutions, and ensure your devices are winter-ready. Routine check-ups help catch minor problems before they get worse, keeping you prepared for the season’s challenges.
Schedule an appointment for an assessment today.