Winter is a wonderful season full of frosty air, holiday merriment, and comfy indoor get-togethers. However, the nippy months also bring unique challenges for your ears and the health of your hearing. Whether you’re combating the bitter cold, whipping winds, or increased risk of illness, safeguarding your hearing becomes essential.
Winter comes with additional 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.
Hearing and hearing aids can be negatively impacted by cold weather
Winter’s cold temperatures and harsh conditions can impact your ears and hearing devices in a number of ways. Identifying these risks can help you take the necessary measures to safeguard your hearing health.
Increased risk of ear infections
Due to fluctuating temperatures and indoor germ exposure, infections are more likely when it’s winter. Moisture inside of your ear can, when exposed to cold air, quickly cool down leaving your ears more vulnerable to an infection. The risk 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 experience 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 result in malfunctions or damage. Without proper care, moisture can jeopardize the fragile electronics in hearing aids, decreasing their lifespan or functionality.
The ear canal can be irritated by dry air
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 guidelines
Luckily, a few basic approaches 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
In order to maintain your auditory activation, it’s crucial that you wear your hearing aids daily, even if it’s rainy or snowy.
However, to safeguard them:
- Make use of a dehumidifying storage compartment overnight to get rid of any moisture.
- Refrain exposing hearing aids to fast temperature changes, as this can cause condensation.
- Think about utilizing a protective cover or sleeve for your hearing aids to shield them from snow and wind.
Continue to be active socially
Winter isolation can be tempting, but staying socially active is necessary for your hearing health. Your brain’s auditory processing will remain strong and active by engaging in conversation and attending social events. Even basic activities like meeting friends for coffee or seeing a movie can improve cognitive function and hearing retention.
It’s necessary to 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 exposure to moisture.
- Avoid using cotton swabs, which can push wax deeper into the ear canal and raise the danger of injury.
- Make use of a soft cloth and warm water to clean around the ear opening if needed.
Manage winter illnesses to safeguard your ears
During the winter you’re more vulnerable to sickness like the cold and flu so it’s important to take a few extra safety measures:
- If necessary, wear a mask in crowded places and think about getting a flu vaccine.
- Wash your hands regularly to reduce exposure to germs.
- Keep hydrated and follow a healthy diet to support your immune system.
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 frequent ear infections. We will get your hearing aids ready for winter, offer customized solutions, and evaluate any concerns you may have. Minor problems can be detected early before they escalate allowing you to be ready for the challenges of the season.
Call us today to schedule an appointment.