The beauty of the winter season is all about frosty cool air, getting cozy in your warm home, and cheerful holiday get-togethers. Your ears and hearing, however, can confront some real challenges during the chilly 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 sickness.
Winter comes with additional challenges for individuals who use hearing aids, but you can keep your hearing aids in good working condition by using a few protective measures.
Hearing and hearing aids can be negatively affected by cold weather
Winter’s cold temperatures and harsh conditions can affect 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.
Increased risk of ear infections
Because of fluctuating temperatures and indoor germ exposure, infections are more likely during the winter. When your ears are exposed to cold air, any moisture inside can cool quickly and create an environment conducive to infection. The danger of respiratory illnesses is also elevated by spending more time inside, heightening exposure to germs, bacteria, and viruses.
Cold weather and moisture risks for hearing aids
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 result of rain, snow, and condensation from cold air. A hearing aid’s functionality and lifespan can be detrimentally impacted if the fragile electronics are jeopardized by moisture.
Dry air and ear canal aggravation
The outdoor winter air tends to be dry and inside air can also be dry because of heating systems. This dryness can cause your skin, including the skin in your ear canal, to become aggravated, flaky, or itchy, making ear discomfort more common during the colder months.
Tips to safeguard your hearing this winter
The good news is that the impact of winter on your ears and hearing aids can be minimized by making use of some simple tips. Implementing these habits will keep you comfortable and your hearing devices working optimally.
Keep hearing aids dry and safe
In order to maintain your auditory activation, it’s crucial that you wear your hearing aids daily, even if it’s rainy or snowy.
Here are some key ways to safeguard them:
- Remove 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.
- Sudden temperature changes can cause condensation to accumulate so avoid them whenever possible.
Continue to be involved socially
Even though it may be tempting to stay inside and isolated during the cold months, your hearing health depends on you remaining involved socially. Your brain’s auditory processing will remain strong and active by participating in conversation and attending social events. Even simple activities like meeting friends for coffee or watching a movie can boost cognitive function and hearing retention.
Practice 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:
- Gently dry your ears with a towel after being exposed to moisture.
- If needed, clean around the ear openings with a soft cloth and warm water.
- Avoid using cotton swabs, which can jam wax deeper into the ear canal and increase the risk of injury.
Protect your ears by controlling your winter illnesses
Since colds and flu are common during the winter, take extra steps to avoid infections that can affect your ears:
- Bolster your immune system by preserving a healthy diet and keeping well hydrated.
- Clean your hands frequently to reduce exposure to germs.
- If necessary, wear a mask in crowded places and think about getting a flu vaccine.
Consult us for personalized advice
Reach out to us for a consultation if you’ve detected any problems with your hearing aids, ear discomfort, or regular ear infections. We can review your concerns, provide personalized solutions, and ensure your devices are ready for winter. Routine check-ups help catch minor issues before they escalate, keeping you prepared for the season’s challenges.
Call us today to schedule an appointment.