The beauty of the winter season is all about crisp cool air, getting comfy in your warm home, and cheerful holiday get-togethers. However, the chilly 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 increased 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 effect 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 appropriate measures 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. When your ears are exposed to cold air, any moisture inside can cool quickly and generate an environment conducive to infection. The danger of respiratory illnesses is also elevated by spending more time inside, heightening exposure to germs, bacteria, and viruses.
Hearing aid risks when it’s cold
You’re more likely to experience wet weather conditions in the winter which can expose your hearing aids to potentially detrimental moisture. Damage and malfunctions can be the result of rain, snow, and condensation from cold air. Without appropriate care, moisture can damage the fragile electronics in hearing aids, reducing their lifespan or functionality.
The ear canal can be aggravated by dry air
Winter air tends to be dry, both outside and inside because 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 in the winter.
Safeguard your hearing this winter with these guidelines
Luckily, a few simple approaches can help decrease the impact of winter on your ears and hearing aids. Employing these habits will keep you comfortable and your hearing devices functioning optimally.
Keep hearing aids dry and safe
In order to maintain your auditory stimulation, it’s important that you wear your hearing aids every day, even if it’s snowing or raining.
Here are some key ways to protect them:
- Refrain exposing hearing aids to fast temperature changes, as this can cause condensation.
- You can shield your device from wind and snow by utilizing a protective sleeve or cover.
- Utilize a dehumidifying storage compartment overnight to remove any moisture.
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. Your brain’s auditory processing will remain sharp and active by participating in conversation and attending social events. Even simple activities like meeting friends for coffee or seeing a movie can boost cognitive function and hearing retention.
It’s necessary to practice good ear hygiene
During the winter, it’s important that you keep your ears clean and dry.
The following are a few tips to help you accomplish that:
- Carefully dry your ears with a towel after exposure to moisture.
- Avoid using cotton swabs, which can push wax deeper into the ear canal and increase the risk of injury.
- If needed, clean around the ear openings with a soft cloth and warm water.
Manage winter sicknesses to protect your ears
In the winter you’re more susceptible to illnesses like the cold and flu so it’s essential to take some extra precautions:
- If necessary, wear a mask in crowded places and think about getting a flu vaccine.
- In order to reduce your exposure to germs, clean your hands regularly.
- Stay hydrated and follow a healthy diet to bolster your immune system.
Consult us for tailored advice
If you notice increased ear discomfort, frequent ear infections, or problems with your hearing aids, reach out to us. We will get your hearing aids ready for winter, offer personalized solutions, and assess any concerns you may have. 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.