Winter is a beautiful season full of frosty air, holiday merriment, and comfy indoor gatherings. However, the nippy 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 safeguarding your health from illness.
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 impacted by cold weather
Winter’s cold temperatures and harsh conditions can impact your ears and hearing devices in a number of ways. Identifying these risks can help you take the appropriate measures to protect your hearing health.
Your risk of getting an ear infection increases
Winter weather frequently 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 vulnerable to an infection. Additionally, spending more time indoors heightens exposure to viruses and bacteria, increasing the danger of respiratory illnesses that can impact ear health.
Hearing aid risks when it’s cold
You’re more likely to encounter wet weather conditions in the winter which can expose your hearing aids to potentially detrimental moisture. Snow, rain, and even condensation from cold air can lead to malfunctions or damage. Without proper care, moisture can compromise the sensitive electronics in hearing aids, decreasing their lifespan or functionality.
Dry air and ear canal aggravation
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 inflamed, flaky, or itchy, making ear discomfort more common during the colder months.
Safeguard your hearing this winter with these tips
Fortunately, a few basic 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
In order to maintain your auditory activation, it’s crucial that you wear your hearing aids daily, even if it’s rainy or snowy.
However, to safeguard them:
- Refrain exposing hearing aids to rapid temperature changes, as this can cause condensation.
- Utilize a dehumidifying storage compartment overnight to eliminate any moisture.
- Consider utilizing a protective cover or sleeve for your hearing aids to shield them from snow and wind.
Remain social and active
Winter isolation can be tempting, but staying socially involved is vital for your hearing health. Your brain’s auditory processing will remain sharp and active by engaging in conversation and going to social events. Even basic activities like meeting friends for coffee or seeing a movie can enhance cognitive function and hearing retention.
Practice good ear hygiene
Keeping clean and dry ears is essential during winter.
The following are a few tips to help you do just that:
- Carefully dry your ears with a towel after being exposed to moisture.
- Avoid using cotton swabs, which can jam wax deeper into the ear canal and increase the risk of injury.
- If necessary, clean around the ear openings with a soft cloth and warm water.
Manage winter illnesses to safeguard your ears
In the winter you’re more prone to illnesses like the cold and flu so it’s important to take some extra safety measures:
- In order to reduce your exposure to germs, clean your hands regularly.
- Consider getting a flu vaccine and wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces if necessary.
- Keep hydrated and practice a healthy diet to bolster your immune system.
For advice personalized to your needs, contact us
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 can review your concerns, provide personalized solutions, and ensure your devices are ready for winter. Minor problems can be detected early before they intensify allowing you to be ready for the challenges of the season.
Schedule an appointment for a consultation today.