Winter is a wonderful season full of frosty air, holiday cheer, and cozy indoor get-togethers. Your ears and hearing, however, can experience some real challenges during the nippy winter months. When it’s cold, protecting your hearing is crucial, whether you’re out in the bitter cold wind or dealing with the challenges of protecting your health from illness.
For people who depend on hearing aids, winter poses added concerns, but with a few hands-on measures, you can safeguard your hearing and devices throughout the season.
The impact of winter on hearing and hearing aids
There are a number of ways that your ears and hearing aids can be affected by winter’s cold conditions. Understanding these risks can help you take the necessary steps to protect your hearing health.
Your risk of getting an ear infection increases
Due to fluctuating temperatures and indoor germ exposure, infections are more likely when it’s winter. Moisture inside of your ear can, when exposed to cold air, quickly cool down leaving your ears more susceptible to an infection. Also, spending more time inside heightens exposure to viruses and bacteria, raising the danger of respiratory illnesses that can affect ear health.
Cold weather and moisture risks for hearing aids
You’re more likely to encounter wet weather conditions in the winter which can expose your hearing aids to potentially detrimental moisture. Snow, rain, and even condensation from cold air can cause malfunctions or damage. Without proper care, moisture can compromise the sensitive electronics in hearing aids, reducing their lifespan or functionality.
Dry air and ear canal aggravation
The outdoor winter air tends to be dry and inside air can also be dry 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 common in the winter.
Safeguard your hearing this winter with these tips
Fortunately, a few basic approaches can help minimize the impact of winter on your ears and hearing aids. You will keep your hearing aids in peak condition and you will be more comfortable by making these practices habit.
Keep your hearing aids safe and dry
Even in rainy or snowy conditions, it’s essential to wear your hearing aids every day to maintain auditory stimulation.
Here are some key ways to protect them:
- Eliminate moisture accumulation by storing your hearing aids in a dehumidifying compartment overnight.
- Quick temperature changes can cause condensation to build-up so avoid them whenever possible.
- You can safeguard your device from wind and snow by using a protective sleeve or cover.
Remain social and active
Though it may be tempting to stay inside and isolated 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 strong. Hearing retention and mental function can even be preserved by seeing a movie or having coffee with friends.
Maintain good ear hygiene
During the winter, it’s important that you keep your ears clean and dry.
The following are a few tips to help you accomplish that:
- After you have been exposed to moisture, dry your ears carefully with a towel.
- Avoid utilizing cotton swabs, which can push wax deeper into the ear canal and increase the danger of injury.
- If necessary, clean around the ear openings with a soft cloth and warm water.
Manage winter sicknesses to protect your ears
Since colds and flu are prevalent in winter, take extra care to avoid infections that can affect your ears:
- Wash your hands regularly to reduce exposure to germs.
- Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet to bolster your immune system.
- Consider getting a flu vaccine and wearing a mask in crowded inside spaces if necessary.
For advice personalized to your needs, contact us
Get in touch with us for a consultation if you’ve noticed any issues 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 challenges of the season.
Schedule an appointment for a consultation today.
