Winter is a wonderful season full of crisp air, holiday cheer, and comfy indoor gatherings. Your ears and hearing, however, can face some real challenges during the chilly winter months. When it’s cold, protecting your hearing is essential, whether you’re out in the bitter cold wind or dealing with the challenges of safeguarding your health from sickness.
For those who depend on hearing aids, winter presents extra concerns, but with a few proactive measures, you can protect your hearing and devices throughout the season.
Hearing and hearing aids can be negatively impacted by cold weather
Winter’s cold temperatures and severe conditions can impact your ears and hearing devices in a number of ways. You will be better able to protect your hearing health against the effect of cold weather if you have a clear picture of the risks.
Your risk of getting an ear infection increases
Winter weather frequently 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, cool down quickly leaving your ears more susceptible to an infection. The danger of respiratory illnesses is also elevated by spending more time indoors, increasing exposure to germs, bacteria, and viruses.
Hearing aid risks when it’s cold
You’re more likely to encounter wet weather conditions during the winter which can expose your hearing aids to potentially detrimental moisture. Snow, rain, and even condensation from cold air can cause malfunctions or damage. Without proper care, moisture can jeopardize the delicate electronics in hearing aids, reducing their lifespan or functionality.
The ear canal can be irritated by dry air
Winter air tends to be dry, both outdoors and indoors because of 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 basic strategies can help decrease the impact of winter on your ears and hearing aids. Employing these habits will keep you comfortable and your hearing devices functioning optimally.
Keep your hearing aids safe and dry
In order to preserve your auditory stimulation, it’s crucial that you wear your hearing aids daily, even if it’s snowing or raining.
Here are some key ways to protect them:
- Utilize a dehumidifying storage container overnight to remove any moisture.
- Avoid exposing hearing aids to rapid temperature changes, as this can cause condensation.
- Consider using 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 remaining socially involved is necessary for your hearing health. Your brain’s auditory processing will remain sharp and active by participating in conversation and going to social events. Hearing retention and cognitive function can even be maintained by watching 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.
Here are a number of key tips:
- Carefully dry your ears with a towel after being exposed to moisture.
- The risk of injury is increased by the use of cotton swabs which can force earwax further into your ear canal and should never be used.
- Utilize a soft cloth and warm water to clean around the ear opening if needed.
Manage winter illnesses to safeguard your ears
Since colds and flu are common in winter, take extra measures to avoid infections that can impact your ears:
- In order to decrease your exposure to germs, clean your hands frequently.
- Stay hydrated and follow a healthy diet to support your immune system.
- If necessary, wear a mask in crowded places and think about getting a flu vaccine.
For advice custom-tailored to your needs, contact us
If you detect increased ear discomfort, frequent ear infections, or problems with your hearing aids, reach out to us. We can review your concerns, provide tailored solutions, and ensure your devices are ready for winter. Minor problems can be detected early before they escalate allowing you to be ready for the difficulties of the season.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
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