The beauty of the winter season is all about frosty cool air, getting comfy in your warm home, and cheerful holiday gatherings. Your ears and hearing, however, can experience some real challenges during the chilly winter months. Whether you’re dealing with the bitter cold, whipping winds, or increased risk of illness, safeguarding your hearing becomes crucial.
Winter comes with increased challenges for people who use hearing aids, but you can keep your hearing aids in good working condition by making use of a few protective measures.
Hearing and hearing aids can be negatively affected by cold weather
Winter’s cold temperatures and harsh conditions can impact your ears and hearing devices in several ways. You will be better able to protect your hearing health against the effect of cold weather if you have a clear picture of the risks.
Greater risk of ear infections
Winter weather often leads to ear infections due to temperature fluctuations and increased exposure to indoor germs. When your ears are exposed to cold air, any moisture inside can cool quickly and generate an environment favorable to infection. Also, spending more time indoors heightens exposure to viruses and bacteria, increasing the risk of respiratory illnesses that can affect ear health.
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 damaging moisture. Snow, rain, and even condensation from cold air can lead to malfunctions or damage. Without appropriate care, moisture can damage the sensitive electronics in hearing aids, decreasing their lifespan or functionality.
Dry air and ear canal irritation
The outdoor winter air tends to be dry and indoor 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.
Guidelines to safeguard your hearing this winter
Fortunately, a few basic strategies can help decrease 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 putting these strategies into practice.
Keep hearing aids dry and safe
Even in snowy or rainy conditions, it’s crucial to wear your hearing aids daily to maintain auditory stimulation.
Here are some key ways to safeguard them:
- Consider utilizing a protective cover or sleeve for your hearing aids to shield them from snow and wind.
- Avoid exposing hearing aids to rapid temperature changes, as this can cause condensation.
- Eliminate moisture accumulation by keeping your hearing aids in a dehumidifying container overnight.
Continue to be involved socially
Winter isolation can be tempting, but remaining socially active is vital for your hearing health. Participating in conversations and going to social events helps keep your brain’s auditory processing strong. Even simple activities like meeting friends for coffee or watching a movie can boost cognitive function and hearing retention.
It’s important to maintain good ear hygiene
Keeping clean and dry ears is essential during winter.
Here are a number of key tips:
- Avoid utilizing cotton swabs, which can push wax deeper into the ear canal and raise the danger of injury.
- If needed, clean around the ear openings with a soft cloth and warm water.
- Carefully dry your ears with a towel after being exposed to moisture.
Safeguard your ears by managing your winter illnesses
Since colds and flu are prevalent in winter, take extra steps to avoid infections that can impact your ears:
- Keep hydrated and practice a healthy diet to bolster your immune system.
- Wash your hands frequently to decrease exposure to germs.
- Consider getting a flu vaccine and wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces if necessary.
For advice personalized to your needs, contact us
Reach out to us for a consultation if you’ve detected any issues with your hearing aids, ear discomfort, or regular ear infections. We will get your hearing aids ready for winter, offer customized solutions, and evaluate any concerns you may have. Minor issues can be detected early before they intensify allowing you to be ready for the challenges of the season.
Call us today to schedule an appointment.
