Winter is a beautiful season full of crisp air, holiday cheer, and comfy indoor get-togethers. However, the chilly months also bring unique challenges for your ears and hearing health. Whether you’re dealing with the bitter cold, whipping winds, or increased risk of illness, safeguarding your hearing becomes crucial.
Winter comes with additional challenges for individuals 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 few ways that your ears and hearing aids can be affected by winter’s cold conditions. Understanding these risks can help you take the appropriate measures to safeguard your hearing health.
Your risk of getting an ear infection increases
Winter weather often triggers ear infections due to temperature fluctuations and increased exposure to indoor 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, raising the danger of respiratory illnesses that can impact ear health.
Cold weather and moisture risks for hearing aids
Hearing aids are sensitive to moisture, and winter weather is full of potential hazards. Damage and malfunctions can be the result of rain, snow, and condensation from cold air. Without correct care, moisture can compromise the delicate electronics in hearing aids, reducing their lifespan or functionality.
Dry air and ear canal aggravation
The outside winter air tends to be dry and indoor air can also be dry due to heating systems. In the winter, the skin of your ear canal can dry out causing itching, flaking, and general discomfort.
Safeguard your hearing this winter with these tips
Fortunately, a few simple strategies can help decrease the impact of winter on your ears and hearing aids. You will keep your hearing aids in optimum condition and you will be more comfortable by making these practices habit.
Keep hearing aids dry and safe
Even in snowy or rainy conditions, it’s important to wear your hearing aids daily to preserve auditory activation.
Here are some key ways to protect them:
- You can safeguard your device from wind and snow by utilizing a protective sleeve or cover.
- Use a dehumidifying storage compartment overnight to eliminate any moisture.
- Rapid temperature changes can cause condensation to build-up so avoid them whenever possible.
Remain social and active
Winter isolation can be tempting, but remaining socially involved is necessary for your hearing health. Participating in conversations and attending social events helps keep your brain’s auditory processing strong. Hearing retention and mental function can even be maintained by watching a movie or having coffee with friends.
Maintain good ear hygiene
Maintaining clean and dry ears is essential during winter.
The following are a few tips to help you accomplish that:
- After you have been exposed to moisture, dry your ears carefully with a towel.
- Avoid utilizing cotton swabs, which can jam 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 illnesses to protect your ears
In the winter you’re more susceptible to sickness like the cold and flu so it’s important to take some extra safety measures:
- Clean your hands frequently to decrease exposure to germs.
- Think about getting a flu vaccine and wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces if necessary.
- Support your immune system by maintaining a healthy diet and staying well hydrated.
For advice personalized 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 regular ear infections. We will get your hearing aids ready for winter, provide customized solutions, and evaluate any concerns you might have. Minor problems can be identified early before they escalate allowing you to be ready for the difficulties of the season.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
