The charm of the winter season is all about crisp cool air, getting cozy in your warm home, and cheerful holiday get-togethers. Your ears and hearing, however, can face some real challenges during the chilly winter months. When it’s cold, protecting your hearing is crucial, whether you’re out in the freezing cold wind or dealing with the challenges of protecting your health from illness.
Winter comes with increased challenges for individuals 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
There are a number of ways that your ears and hearing aids can be impacted by winter’s cold conditions. You will be better able to safeguard 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 inside germ exposure, infections are more likely during the winter. Moisture inside of your ear can, when exposed to cold air, quickly cool down leaving your ears more susceptible to an infection. The danger of respiratory illnesses is also elevated by spending more time indoors, increasing exposure to germs, bacteria, and viruses.
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 damaging moisture. Damage and malfunctions can be the consequence of rain, snow, and condensation from cold air. A hearing aid’s functionality and lifespan can be adversely affected if the fragile electronics are jeopardized by moisture.
The ear canal can be irritated by dry air
Winter air tends to be dry, both outside and inside as a result of heating systems. In the winter, the skin of your ear canal can dry out causing itching, flaking, and overall discomfort.
Tips 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 utilizing some simple tips. You will keep your hearing aids in top 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 activation.
However, to safeguard them:
- Think about utilizing a protective cover or sleeve for your hearing aids to shield them from snow and wind.
- Sudden temperature changes can cause condensation to build-up so avoid them whenever possible.
- Remove moisture accumulation by keeping your hearing aids in a dehumidifying compartment overnight.
Continue to be active socially
Winter isolation can be tempting, but remaining socially active is necessary for your hearing health. Participating in conversations and going to social events helps keep your brain’s auditory processing sharp. Hearing retention and cognitive function can even be maintained by seeing a movie or having coffee with friends.
Maintain good ear hygiene
Keeping clean and dry ears is crucial during winter.
Here are a few key tips:
- Utilize a soft cloth and warm water to clean around the ear opening if needed.
- Gently dry your ears with a towel after exposure to moisture.
- The danger of injury is increased by using cotton swabs which can force earwax further into your ear canal and should never be used.
Protect your ears by managing your winter sickness
Since colds and flu are prevalent during the winter, take extra steps to avoid infections that can affect your ears:
- In order to decrease your exposure to germs, clean your hands regularly.
- Consider getting a flu vaccine and wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces if necessary.
- Support your immune system by maintaining a healthy diet and keeping well hydrated.
For advice personalized to your needs, contact us
If you notice increased ear discomfort, frequent ear infections, or issues with your hearing aids, get in touch with us. We will get your hearing aids ready for winter, offer customized solutions, and assess any concerns you may have. Minor problems can be identified early before they intensify allowing you to be ready for the difficulties of the season.
Schedule an appointment for an assessment today.