Winter is a wonderful season full of crisp air, holiday cheer, and comfy indoor get-togethers. However, the chilly months also bring unique challenges for your ears and hearing health. When it’s cold, protecting your hearing is essential, whether you’re out in the freezing cold wind or dealing with the challenges of protecting your health from sickness.
For people who depend on hearing aids, winter presents additional concerns, but with a few hands-on measures, you can safeguard your hearing and hearing aids throughout the season.
Hearing and hearing aids can be negatively impacted by cold weather
There are a number of ways that your ears and hearing aids can be impacted by winter’s cold conditions. Identifying these risks can help you take the appropriate steps to safeguard your hearing health.
Your risk of getting an ear infection rises
As a result 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, cool down quickly 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
Hearing aids are sensitive to moisture, and winter weather is full of potential hazards. Damage and malfunctions can be the outcome of rain, snow, and condensation from cold air. A hearing aid’s functionality and lifespan can be negatively affected if the sensitive electronics are jeopardized by moisture.
The ear canal can be aggravated by dry air
The outside winter air tends to be dry and indoor air can also be dry as a result of heating systems. In the winter, the skin of your ear canal can dry out causing itching, flaking, and general discomfort.
Safeguard your hearing this winter with these guidelines
The good news is that the impact of winter on your ears and hearing aids can be decreased by making use of some simple tips. Employing these habits will keep you comfortable and your hearing devices working optimally.
Keep hearing aids dry and safe
In order to preserve your auditory activation, it’s crucial that you wear your hearing aids every day, even if it’s rainy or snowy.
Here are some key ways to protect them:
- Remove moisture accumulation by storing your hearing aids in a dehumidifying compartment overnight.
- You can safeguard your device from wind and snow by using a protective sleeve or cover.
- Rapid temperature changes can cause condensation to build-up so avoid them whenever possible.
Stay social and active
Winter isolation can be tempting, but staying socially involved is essential for your hearing health. Your brain’s auditory processing will remain sharp and active by participating in conversation and going to social events. Hearing retention and mental function can even be preserved by seeing a movie or having coffee with friends.
Practice good ear hygiene
Maintaining clean and dry ears is essential during winter.
Here are a few key tips:
- The risk of injury is increased by using cotton swabs which can jam earwax further into your ear canal and should never be used.
- Gently dry your ears with a towel after exposure to moisture.
- Utilize a soft cloth and warm water to clean around the ear opening if needed.
Manage winter sicknesses to protect your ears
Since colds and flu are prevalent in winter, take extra care to avoid infections that can affect your ears:
- If necessary, wear a mask in crowded places and consider getting a flu vaccine.
- In order to decrease your exposure to germs, wash your hands regularly.
- Reinforce your immune system by preserving a healthy diet and staying well hydrated.
Consult us for personalized advice
Get in touch with us for a consultation if you’ve noticed any issues with your hearing aids, ear discomfort, or frequent ear infections. We can review your concerns, offer personalized solutions, and ensure your devices are ready for winter. Minor issues can be identified early before they escalate allowing you to be ready for the challenges of the season.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment.