Winter is a wonderful season filled with crisp air, holiday cheer, and comfy indoor get-togethers. Your ears and hearing, however, can experience some real challenges during the chilly winter months. When it’s cold, safeguarding your hearing is essential, whether you’re out in the freezing cold wind or dealing with the challenges of safeguarding your health from illness.
For people who rely on hearing aids, winter poses extra concerns, but with a few hands-on measures, you can protect your hearing and hearing aids throughout the season.
The impact of winter on hearing and hearing aids
Winter’s cold temperatures and severe conditions can affect your ears and hearing devices in a number of ways. Identifying these risks can help you take the necessary steps to safeguard your hearing health.
Your risk of getting an ear infection increases
Due to 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 create an environment conducive to infection. The danger of respiratory illnesses is also elevated by spending more time indoors, heightening exposure to germs, bacteria, and viruses.
Cold weather and moisture risks for hearing aids
Hearing aids can be damaged by moisture, and winter weather has plenty of potential hazards. Damage and malfunctions can be the result of rain, snow, and condensation from cold air. A hearing aid’s functionality and lifespan can be negatively impacted if the delicate electronics are compromised by moisture.
Dry air and ear canal irritation
Winter air tends to be dry, both outdoors and inside 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 during the colder months.
Guidelines to safeguard your hearing this winter
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 every day, even if it’s rainy or snowy.
However, to protect them:
- You can safeguard your device from wind and snow by using a protective sleeve or cover.
- Utilize a dehumidifying storage container overnight to eliminate any moisture.
- Sudden temperature changes can cause condensation to accumulate so avoid them whenever possible.
Continue to be active socially
Winter isolation can be tempting, but staying socially active is vital for your hearing health. Your brain’s auditory processing will remain sharp and active by engaging in conversation and attending social events. Even basic activities like meeting friends for coffee or watching a movie can improve cognitive function and hearing retention.
It’s necessary to practice good ear hygiene
Keeping clean and dry ears is crucial during winter.
The following are a few tips to help you do just that:
- If needed, clean around the ear openings with a soft cloth and warm water.
- Gently dry your ears with a towel after being exposed to moisture.
- The danger of injury is increased by using cotton swabs which can push earwax further into your ear canal and should never be utilized.
Protect your ears by controlling your winter illnesses
Since colds and flu are common during the winter, take extra measures to avoid infections that can impact your ears:
- Think about getting a flu vaccine and wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces if necessary.
- Wash your hands frequently to decrease exposure to germs.
- Support your immune system by maintaining a healthy diet and staying well hydrated.
For advice personalized to your needs, contact us
If you detect increased ear discomfort, frequent ear infections, or problems with your hearing aids, get in touch with us. We will get your hearing aids ready for winter, provide personalized solutions, and assess any concerns you may have. Minor problems can be identified early before they intensify allowing you to be ready for the challenges of the season.
Schedule an appointment for an evaluation today.
