Winter is a beautiful season full of frosty air, holiday merriment, and comfy indoor get-togethers. However, the nippy months also bring distinctive challenges for your ears and the health of your hearing. When it’s chilly, 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.
For people who rely on hearing aids, winter presents extra concerns, but with a few hands-on measures, you can safeguard your hearing and devices throughout the season.
The effect of winter on hearing and hearing aids
Winter’s cold temperatures and harsh conditions can impact your ears and hearing devices in several ways. Identifying these risks can help you take the necessary steps to protect your hearing health.
Your risk of getting an ear infection rises
Winter weather often results in 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 vulnerable to an infection. The danger of respiratory illnesses is also increased by spending more time indoors, heightening exposure to germs, bacteria, and viruses.
Hearing aid risks when it’s cold
Hearing aids can be damaged by moisture, and winter weather has plenty of potential hazards. Snow, rain, and even condensation from cold air can lead to malfunctions or damage. Without correct care, moisture can compromise the sensitive electronics in hearing aids, reducing their lifespan or functionality.
The ear canal can be aggravated by dry air
Winter air tends to be dry, both outdoors and indoors as a result of heating systems. This dryness can cause your skin, including the skin in your ear canal, to become inflamed, flaky, or itchy, making ear discomfort more prevalent during the colder months.
Protect your hearing this winter with these tips
Luckily, a few basic strategies can help minimize 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 important to wear your hearing aids every day to maintain auditory stimulation.
Here are some key ways to safeguard them:
- Remove moisture accumulation by storing your hearing aids in a dehumidifying compartment overnight.
- Rapid temperature changes can cause condensation to build-up so avoid them whenever possible.
- Think about using a protective cover or sleeve for your hearing aids to shield them from snow and wind.
Continue to be involved socially
Although it may be tempting to stay inside and secluded during the cold months, your hearing health depends on you remaining involved socially. Partaking in conversations and going to 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 important to maintain good ear hygiene
During the winter, it’s essential that you keep your ears clean and dry.
The following are several tips to help you do just that:
- Make use of a soft cloth and warm water to clean around the ear opening if necessary.
- Gently dry your ears with a towel after exposure to moisture.
- The risk of injury is increased by using cotton swabs which can pack earwax further into your ear canal and should never be used.
Protect your ears by managing your winter illnesses
Since colds and flu are common in winter, take extra precautions to avoid infections that can affect your ears:
- In order to reduce your exposure to germs, wash your hands frequently.
- If necessary, wear a mask in crowded places and consider getting a flu vaccine.
- Support your immune system by maintaining a healthy diet and keeping well hydrated.
Consult us for tailored advice
Get in touch with us for a consultation if you’ve noticed any issues with your hearing aids, ear discomfort, or frequent ear infections. We will get your hearing aids winter-ready, provide customized solutions, and assess any concerns you may have. Minor problems can be detected early before they intensify allowing you to be ready for the difficulties of the season.
Call us today to schedule an appointment.
