The charm 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, safeguarding your hearing is crucial, whether you’re out in the bitter cold wind or dealing with the challenges of safeguarding your health from illness.
Winter comes with increased challenges for people 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 impacted by cold weather
There are a few ways that your ears and hearing aids can be affected 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 understanding of the risks.
Your risk of getting an ear infection rises
Winter weather frequently results in ear infections due to temperature fluctuations and increased exposure to inside germs. Moisture inside of your ear can, when exposed to cold air, cool down quickly leaving your ears more vulnerable to an infection. Also, spending more time inside elevates exposure to viruses and bacteria, increasing the risk of respiratory illnesses that can affect ear health.
Cold weather and moisture risks for hearing aids
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 cause malfunctions or damage. Without proper care, moisture can compromise the fragile electronics in hearing aids, decreasing their lifespan or functionality.
The ear canal can be irritated by dry air
Winter air tends to be dry, both outdoors and inside as a result of 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 during the colder months.
Safeguard your hearing this winter with these tips
Luckily, a few simple approaches can help decrease the impact of winter on your ears and hearing aids. You will keep your hearing aids in top condition and you will be more comfortable by making these practices habit.
Keep your hearing aids safe and dry
Even in snowy or rainy weather, it’s important to wear your hearing aids every day to preserve auditory stimulation.
However, to protect them:
- You can shield 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.
- Make use of a dehumidifying storage container overnight to get rid of any moisture.
Stay social and active
Winter isolation can be tempting, but staying socially involved is essential for your hearing health. Participating in conversations and attending social events helps keep your brain’s auditory processing sharp. Hearing retention and mental function can even be preserved by watching a movie or having coffee with friends.
It’s important to maintain good ear hygiene
During the winter, it’s essential that you keep your ears clean and dry.
Here are a few key tips:
- After you have been exposed to moisture, dry your ears carefully with a towel.
- Make use of a soft cloth and warm water to clean around the ear opening if needed.
- Avoid utilizing cotton swabs, which can jam wax deeper into the ear canal and raise the risk of injury.
Safeguard your ears by controlling your winter illnesses
Since colds and flu are common during the winter, take extra care to avoid infections that can affect your ears:
- Clean your hands regularly to decrease exposure to germs.
- Stay hydrated and practice a healthy diet to bolster your immune system.
- If necessary, wear a mask in crowded places and think about getting a flu vaccine.
For advice personalized to your needs, contact us
Reach out to us for a consultation if you’ve noticed any problems with your hearing aids, ear discomfort, or regular ear infections. We will get your hearing aids ready for winter, provide customized solutions, and assess any concerns you might have. Routine check-ups help catch minor problems before they escalate, keeping you prepared for the season’s challenges.
Schedule an appointment for an assessment today.