Winter is a wonderful season filled with frosty air, holiday cheer, and comfy indoor get-togethers. However, the nippy months also bring distinctive challenges for your ears and hearing health. Whether you’re combating the bitter cold, blustery winds, or increased risk of illness, safeguarding your hearing becomes essential.
Winter comes with added 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 affected by cold weather
Winter’s cold temperatures and harsh conditions can affect your ears and hearing devices in a number of ways. You will be better able to safeguard your hearing health against the impact of cold weather if you have a clear picture of the risks.
Greater risk of ear infections
Winter weather often triggers ear infections as a result of 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 susceptible to an infection. Additionally, spending more time inside heightens exposure to viruses and bacteria, raising the danger of respiratory illnesses that can affect ear health.
Hearing aid risks when it’s cold
Hearing aids can be damaged by moisture, and winter weather is full of potential hazards. Snow, rain, and even condensation from cold air can lead to malfunctions or damage. A hearing aid’s functionality and lifespan can be adversely impacted if the sensitive electronics are compromised by moisture.
Dry air and ear canal irritation
The outside winter air tends to be dry and indoor air can also be dry 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 prevalent during the colder months.
Protect your hearing this winter with these tips
The good news is that the impact of winter on your ears and hearing aids can be reduced by utilizing some simple tips. 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
In order to maintain your auditory activation, it’s important that you wear your hearing aids daily, even if it’s snowing or raining.
Here are some key ways to safeguard them:
- Quick temperature changes can cause condensation to accumulate so avoid them whenever possible.
- Eliminate moisture accumulation by keeping your hearing aids in a dehumidifying container overnight.
- You can shield your device from wind and snow by utilizing a protective sleeve or cover.
Continue to be involved socially
Though it might be tempting to stay inside and secluded during the cold months, your hearing health depends on you remaining involved socially. Participating in conversations and attending social events helps keep your brain’s auditory processing sharp. Hearing retention and cognitive function can even be maintained by watching a movie or having coffee with friends.
It’s necessary to practice good ear hygiene
Maintaining clean and dry ears is essential during winter.
Here are a number of key tips:
- The danger of injury is increased by the use of cotton swabs which can force earwax further into your ear canal and should never be utilized.
- After you have been exposed to moisture, dry your ears gently with a towel.
- Utilize a soft cloth and warm water to clean around the ear opening if needed.
Manage winter sicknesses to safeguard your ears
Since colds and flu are prevalent during the winter, take extra precautions to avoid infections that can affect your ears:
- If necessary, wear a mask in crowded places and think about getting a flu vaccine.
- Stay hydrated and practice a healthy diet to bolster your immune system.
- In order to reduce your exposure to germs, wash your hands frequently.
Consult us for tailored advice
Get in touch with us for a consultation if you’ve noticed any problems with your hearing aids, ear discomfort, or frequent ear infections. We will get your hearing aids ready for winter, offer personalized solutions, and evaluate any concerns you might have. Minor issues can be identified early before they escalate allowing you to be ready for the difficulties of the season.
Schedule an appointment for a consultation today.