The charm of the winter season is all about crisp cool air, getting cozy 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 crucial.
Winter comes with increased challenges for people who use hearing aids, but you can keep your hearing aids in good working condition by using a few protective measures.
The impact of winter on hearing and hearing aids
There are a number of ways that your ears and hearing aids can be affected by winter’s cold conditions. Identifying these risks can help you take the appropriate measures to safeguard your hearing health.
Increased risk of ear infections
Winter weather often results in ear infections because of temperature fluctuations and increased exposure to indoor germs. Moisture inside of your ear can, when exposed to cold air, quickly cool down leaving your ears more susceptible to an infection. The danger of respiratory illnesses is also increased by spending more time inside, heightening exposure to germs, bacteria, and viruses.
Hearing aid risks when it’s cold
Hearing aids are sensitive to moisture, and winter weather has plenty of potential hazards. Damage and malfunctions can be the consequence of rain, snow, and condensation from cold air. Without appropriate care, moisture can compromise the delicate electronics in hearing aids, decreasing their lifespan or functionality.
Dry air and ear canal discomfort
Winter air tends to be dry, both outside and indoors because of heating systems. During the cold months, the skin of your ear canal can dry out causing itching, flaking, and overall 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
In order to preserve your auditory stimulation, it’s essential that you wear your hearing aids daily, even if it’s rainy or snowy.
However, to safeguard them:
- Avoid exposing hearing aids to quick temperature changes, as this can cause condensation.
- Remove moisture accumulation by keeping your hearing aids in a dehumidifying compartment overnight.
- You can shield your device from wind and snow by using a protective sleeve or cover.
Remain social and active
Winter isolation can be tempting, but remaining socially involved is essential for your hearing health. Your brain’s auditory processing will remain strong and active by engaging in conversation and attending social events. Hearing retention and mental function can even be preserved by seeing a movie or having coffee with friends.
Maintain good ear hygiene
During the winter, it’s essential that you keep your ears clean and dry.
The following are several tips to help you do just that:
- Make use of a soft cloth and warm water to clean around the ear opening if necessary.
- After you have been exposed to moisture, dry your ears gently with a towel.
- Avoid using cotton swabs, which can jam wax deeper into the ear canal and increase the risk of injury.
Safeguard your ears by controlling your winter sickness
During the winter you’re more vulnerable to sickness like the cold and flu so it’s important to take some extra precautions:
- Wash your hands regularly to decrease exposure to germs.
- If necessary, wear a mask in crowded places and consider getting a flu vaccine.
- Bolster your immune system by maintaining a healthy diet and keeping well hydrated.
Consult us for personalized advice
Get in touch with us for a consultation if you’ve detected any issues with your hearing aids, ear discomfort, or frequent ear infections. We can assess your concerns, provide personalized solutions, and ensure your devices are winter-ready. Minor issues 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.
