Winter is a beautiful season full of frosty air, holiday cheer, and comfy indoor gatherings. However, the nippy months also bring distinctive challenges for your ears and hearing health. When it’s chilly, safeguarding your hearing is crucial, whether you’re out in the bitter cold wind or dealing with the challenges of protecting your health from sickness.
For those who rely on hearing aids, winter presents additional concerns, but with a few hands-on measures, you can protect your hearing and devices throughout the season.
The impact of winter on hearing and hearing aids
There are several ways that your ears and hearing aids can be impacted by winter’s cold conditions. Identifying these risks can help you take the necessary measures to safeguard your hearing health.
Your risk of getting an ear infection rises
As a result of fluctuating temperatures and indoor germ exposure, infections are more likely when it’s winter. When your ears are exposed to cold air, any moisture inside can cool quickly and produce an environment favorable to infection. Also, spending more time indoors elevates exposure to viruses and bacteria, increasing the risk of respiratory illnesses that can impact ear health.
Hearing aid risks when it’s cold
Hearing aids can be damaged by moisture, and winter weather is full of potential hazards. Damage and malfunctions can be the outcome of rain, snow, and condensation from cold air. Without correct care, moisture can jeopardize the delicate electronics in hearing aids, decreasing their lifespan or functionality.
Dry air and ear canal aggravation
Winter air tends to be dry, both outside and inside because of heating systems. In the winter, the skin of your ear canal can dry out causing itching, flaking, and overall discomfort.
Tips to protect your hearing this winter
Luckily, a few basic approaches can help minimize the impact of winter on your ears and hearing aids. Implementing these habits will keep you comfortable and your hearing devices working optimally.
Keep your hearing aids safe and dry
Even in snowy or rainy conditions, it’s essential to wear your hearing aids daily to maintain auditory activation.
Here are some key ways to protect them:
- You can safeguard your device from wind and snow by using a protective sleeve or cover.
- Utilize a dehumidifying storage container overnight to eliminate any moisture.
- Rapid temperature changes can cause condensation to build-up so avoid them whenever possible.
Continue to be active socially
Though it might be tempting to stay inside and secluded during the cold months, your hearing health depends on you remaining active socially. Your brain’s auditory processing will remain sharp and active by participating in conversation and attending social events. Even basic activities like meeting friends for coffee or watching a movie can boost cognitive function and hearing retention.
Maintain good ear hygiene
During the winter, it’s essential that you keep your ears clean and dry.
The following are several tips to help you do just that:
- After you have been exposed to moisture, dry your ears gently with a towel.
- Avoid using cotton swabs, which can push wax deeper into the ear canal and increase the danger of injury.
- If needed, clean around the ear openings with a soft cloth and warm water.
Manage winter illnesses to protect your ears
Since colds and flu are common in winter, take extra measures to avoid infections that can affect your ears:
- Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet to bolster your immune system.
- In order to reduce your exposure to germs, wash your hands regularly.
- Think about getting a flu vaccine and wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces if necessary.
Consult us for tailored advice
Reach out to us for a consultation if you’ve noticed any problems with your hearing aids, ear discomfort, or frequent ear infections. We can assess your concerns, offer personalized solutions, and ensure your devices are ready for winter. Minor problems can be identified early before they escalate allowing you to be ready for the difficulties of the season.
Call us today to schedule an appointment.