Winter is a beautiful season full of frosty air, holiday merriment, and comfy indoor get-togethers. However, the nippy months also bring unique challenges for your ears and the health of your hearing. Whether you’re dealing with the bitter cold, whipping winds, or increased risk of illness, safeguarding your hearing becomes essential.
For people who rely on hearing aids, winter poses extra concerns, but with a few proactive measures, you can protect your hearing and devices throughout the season.
The effect of winter on hearing and hearing aids
Winter’s cold temperatures and severe conditions can affect your ears and hearing devices in a number of ways. Understanding these risks can help you take the necessary steps to safeguard your hearing health.
Greater risk of ear infections
As a result of fluctuating temperatures and inside germ exposure, infections are more likely when it’s winter. Moisture inside of your ear can, when exposed to cold air, cool down quickly leaving your ears more vulnerable to an infection. The danger of respiratory illnesses is also increased by spending more time inside, heightening exposure to germs, bacteria, and viruses.
Hearing aid risks when it’s cold
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 consequence of rain, snow, and condensation from cold air. Without correct care, moisture can damage the sensitive electronics in hearing aids, decreasing their lifespan or functionality.
Dry air and ear canal aggravation
The outside winter air tends to be dry and inside air can also be dry due to heating systems. This dryness can cause your skin, including the skin in your ear canal, to become irritated, flaky, or itchy, making ear discomfort more common in the winter.
Tips to protect your hearing this winter
Luckily, a few basic strategies can help decrease the impact of winter on your ears and hearing aids. Employing these habits will keep you comfortable and your hearing devices functioning optimally.
Keep your hearing aids safe and dry
Even in snowy or rainy conditions, it’s essential to wear your hearing aids every day to maintain auditory activation.
Here are some key ways to safeguard them:
- You can safeguard your device from wind and snow by using a protective sleeve or cover.
- Rapid temperature changes can cause condensation to accumulate so avoid them whenever possible.
- Remove moisture accumulation by storing your hearing aids in a dehumidifying compartment overnight.
Continue to be involved socially
Winter isolation can be tempting, but remaining socially active is essential for your hearing health. Partaking in conversations and going to social events helps keep your brain’s auditory processing strong. Even simple activities like meeting friends for coffee or seeing a movie can improve cognitive function and hearing retention.
It’s necessary to maintain good ear hygiene
Keeping clean and dry ears is essential during winter.
Here are a few key tips:
- The danger of injury is increased by the use of cotton swabs which can jam earwax further into your ear canal and should never be used.
- Make use of 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.
Safeguard your ears by managing your winter sickness
In the winter you’re more prone to sickness like the cold and flu so it’s essential to take a few extra safety measures:
- Consider getting a flu vaccine and wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces if necessary.
- Stay hydrated and practice a healthy diet to bolster your immune system.
- In order to reduce your exposure to germs, wash your hands regularly.
For advice personalized 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 winter-ready, offer customized 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.