Winter is a beautiful season filled with crisp air, holiday merriment, and cozy indoor get-togethers. However, the chilly months also bring unique challenges for your ears and hearing health. When it’s chilly, protecting your hearing is crucial, whether you’re out in the freezing cold wind or dealing with the challenges of protecting 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 making use of a few protective measures.
The effect of winter on hearing and hearing aids
There are a few ways that your ears and hearing aids can be affected by winter’s cold conditions. You will be better able to protect your hearing health against the effect of cold weather if you have a clear understanding of the risks.
Greater risk of ear infections
Due to fluctuating temperatures and inside germ exposure, infections are more likely when it’s winter. When your ears are exposed to cold air, any moisture inside can quickly cool and create an environment favorable to infection. The risk of respiratory illnesses is also increased by spending more time indoors, increasing 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 damaging moisture. Damage and malfunctions can be the outcome of rain, snow, and condensation from cold air. A hearing aid’s functionality and lifespan can be adversely impacted if the sensitive electronics are jeopardized by moisture.
The ear canal can be aggravated by dry air
The outdoor winter air tends to be dry and indoor air can also be dry because of heating systems. During the cold months, the skin of your ear canal can dry out causing itching, flaking, and general discomfort.
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 using some simple tips. You will keep your hearing aids in peak condition and you will be more comfortable by putting these strategies into practice.
Keep your hearing aids safe and dry
Even in rainy or snowy weather, it’s important to wear your hearing aids daily to preserve auditory activation.
However, to safeguard them:
- Eliminate moisture accumulation by keeping your hearing aids in a dehumidifying compartment overnight.
- You can shield your device from wind and snow by utilizing a protective sleeve or cover.
- Sudden temperature changes can cause condensation to build-up so avoid them whenever possible.
Remain social and active
Though it might be tempting to stay inside and isolated 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. Hearing retention and mental function can even be preserved by seeing a movie or having coffee with friends.
Practice good ear hygiene
Maintaining clean and dry ears is essential during winter.
The following are a few tips to help you accomplish that:
- If necessary, clean around the ear openings with a soft cloth and warm water.
- Gently dry your ears with a towel after being exposed to moisture.
- Avoid utilizing cotton swabs, which can push wax deeper into the ear canal and raise the danger of injury.
Manage winter sicknesses to protect your ears
Since colds and flu are prevalent during the winter, take extra steps to avoid infections that can impact your ears:
- Stay hydrated and practice a healthy diet to support your immune system.
- Consider getting a flu vaccine and wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces if necessary.
- Wash your hands regularly to decrease exposure to germs.
For advice custom-tailored to your needs, contact us
Reach out to us for a consultation if you’ve noticed any issues with your hearing aids, ear discomfort, or frequent ear infections. We will get your hearing aids ready for winter, provide customized solutions, and evaluate any concerns you might have. Routine check-ups help catch minor problems before they get worse, keeping you prepared for the season’s challenges.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment.