Winter is a beautiful season full of crisp air, holiday cheer, and comfy indoor gatherings. However, the chilly months also bring distinctive challenges for your ears and the health of your hearing. When it’s chilly, safeguarding your hearing is essential, whether you’re out in the bitter cold wind or dealing with the challenges of protecting your health from sickness.
Winter comes with additional challenges for people who use hearing aids, but you can keep your hearing aids in good working order by making use of a few protective measures.
The impact of winter on hearing and hearing aids
There are a few ways that your ears and hearing aids can be impacted by winter’s cold conditions. You will be better able to protect your hearing health against the impact of cold weather if you have a clear understanding of the risks.
Increased risk of ear infections
Winter weather often triggers ear infections as a result of temperature fluctuations and increased exposure to indoor germs. Moisture inside of your ear can, when exposed to cold air, cool down quickly leaving your ears more susceptible to an infection. The risk of respiratory illnesses is also elevated by spending more time indoors, heightening exposure to germs, bacteria, and viruses.
Hearing aid risks when it’s cold
You’re more likely to experience wet weather conditions during the winter which can expose your hearing aids to potentially detrimental moisture. Damage and malfunctions can be the outcome of rain, snow, and condensation from cold air. Without appropriate care, moisture can jeopardize the delicate electronics in hearing aids, reducing their lifespan or functionality.
The ear canal can be irritated by dry air
The outside winter air tends to be dry and indoor air can also be dry due to heating systems. This dryness can cause your skin, including the skin in your ear canal, to become inflamed, flaky, or itchy, making ear discomfort more prevalent in the winter.
Guidelines to protect your hearing this winter
The good news is that the impact of winter on your ears and hearing aids can be reduced by making use of some simple tips. You will keep your hearing aids in optimum 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 crucial to wear your hearing aids daily to maintain auditory stimulation.
Here are some key ways to protect them:
- Think about using a protective cover or sleeve for your hearing aids to safeguard them from snow and wind.
- Rapid temperature changes can cause condensation to accumulate so avoid them whenever possible.
- Eliminate moisture accumulation by storing your hearing aids in a dehumidifying container overnight.
Continue to be active socially
Even though it may be tempting to stay inside and secluded during the cold months, your hearing health depends on you remaining active socially. Partaking in conversations and going to social events helps keep your brain’s auditory processing sharp. Even basic activities like meeting friends for coffee or seeing a movie can improve cognitive function and hearing retention.
Practice good ear hygiene
During the winter, it’s important that you keep your ears clean and dry.
Here are a number of key tips:
- Carefully dry your ears with a towel after being exposed to moisture.
- The risk of injury is increased by the use of cotton swabs which can force earwax further into your ear canal and should never be utilized.
- If necessary, clean around the ear openings with a soft cloth and warm water.
Protect your ears by managing your winter sickness
In the winter you’re more susceptible to illnesses like the cold and flu so it’s essential to take a few extra precautions:
- Keep hydrated and follow a healthy diet to bolster your immune system.
- If necessary, wear a mask in crowded places and consider getting a flu vaccine.
- Wash your hands regularly to decrease exposure to germs.
Consult us for personalized advice
Reach out to us for a consultation if you’ve detected any problems with your hearing aids, ear discomfort, or regular ear infections. We can review your concerns, offer tailored 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 challenges of the season.
Call us today to schedule an appointment.