Winter is a beautiful season filled with crisp air, holiday cheer, and comfy indoor get-togethers. Your ears and hearing, however, can face some real challenges during the nippy winter months. Whether you’re combating the bitter cold, whipping winds, or increased risk of illness, protecting your hearing becomes essential.
Winter comes with increased challenges for individuals 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
There are a number of ways that your ears and hearing aids can be affected by winter’s cold conditions. Identifying these risks can help you take the appropriate measures to protect your hearing health.
Your risk of getting an ear infection increases
Winter weather frequently results in ear infections due to temperature fluctuations and increased exposure to indoor germs. Moisture inside of your ear can, when exposed to cold air, cool down quickly leaving your ears more susceptible to an infection. The risk of respiratory illnesses is also elevated by spending more time indoors, heightening exposure to germs, bacteria, and viruses.
Hearing aid risks when it’s cold
You’re more likely to experience wet weather conditions during the winter which can expose your hearing aids to potentially damaging moisture. Snow, rain, and even condensation from cold air can lead to malfunctions or damage. Without correct care, moisture can jeopardize the delicate 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 because of heating systems. During the cold months, the skin of your ear canal can dry out causing itching, flaking, and overall discomfort.
Guidelines to safeguard your hearing this winter
The good news is that the impact of winter on your ears and hearing aids can be decreased by using some simple tips. You will keep your hearing aids in optimum condition and you will be more comfortable by putting these strategies into practice.
Keep your hearing aids safe and dry
Even in rainy or snowy weather, it’s important to wear your hearing aids every day to maintain auditory stimulation.
However, to safeguard them:
- Eliminate moisture accumulation by keeping your hearing aids in a dehumidifying container overnight.
- You can safeguard your device from wind and snow by using a protective sleeve or cover.
- Avoid exposing hearing aids to fast temperature changes, as this can cause condensation.
Remain social and active
Winter isolation can be tempting, but remaining socially active is necessary for your hearing health. Partaking in conversations and going to social events helps keep your brain’s auditory processing strong. Even basic activities like meeting friends for coffee or watching a movie can enhance cognitive function and hearing retention.
It’s necessary to practice good ear hygiene
Maintaining clean and dry ears is essential during winter.
Here are a few key tips:
- Gently dry your ears with a towel after exposure to moisture.
- Avoid using cotton swabs, which can pack wax deeper into the ear canal and raise the risk of injury.
- If necessary, clean around the ear openings with a soft cloth and warm water.
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 precautions:
- Keep hydrated and follow a healthy diet to support your immune system.
- If necessary, wear a mask in crowded places and think about getting a flu vaccine.
- Wash your hands regularly to reduce exposure to germs.
For advice custom-tailored to your needs, contact us
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 tailored solutions, and ensure your devices are winter-ready. Regular check-ups help catch minor problems before they escalate, keeping you prepared for the season’s difficulties.
Schedule an appointment for an assessment today.