Hearing Services of Nashville

couple walking near the river, during cold winter day.

Winter is a wonderful season full of frosty air, holiday merriment, and cozy indoor get-togethers. Your ears and hearing, however, can confront some real challenges during the nippy winter months. Whether you’re dealing with the bitter cold, whipping winds, or increased risk of illness, safeguarding your hearing becomes crucial.

For people who depend on hearing aids, winter presents added concerns, but with a few proactive measures, you can protect your hearing and devices throughout the season.

Hearing and hearing aids can be negatively affected by cold weather

Winter’s cold temperatures and harsh conditions can affect your ears and hearing devices in several ways. You will be better able to safeguard your hearing health against the effect of cold weather if you have a clear understanding of the risks.

Increased risk of ear infections

Winter weather often leads to ear infections because of temperature fluctuations and increased exposure to inside germs. Moisture inside of your ear can, when exposed to cold air, cool down quickly leaving your ears more vulnerable to an infection. The risk of respiratory illnesses is also increased by spending more time inside, heightening exposure to germs, bacteria, and viruses.

Cold weather and moisture risks for hearing aids

Hearing aids are sensitive to moisture, and winter weather has lots of potential hazards. Damage and malfunctions can be the consequence of rain, snow, and condensation from cold air. Without correct care, moisture can compromise the sensitive electronics in hearing aids, decreasing their lifespan or functionality.

Dry air and ear canal discomfort

Winter air tends to be dry, both outside and inside because of heating systems. This dryness can cause your skin, including the skin in your ear canal, to become irritated, flaky, or itchy, making ear discomfort more prevalent during the colder months.

Guidelines to safeguard your hearing this winter

The good news is that the impact of winter on your ears and hearing aids can be minimized by utilizing some simple tips. Employing these habits will keep you comfortable and your hearing devices functioning optimally.

Keep hearing aids dry and safe

In order to preserve your auditory activation, it’s essential that you wear your hearing aids every day, even if it’s snowing or raining.

Here are some key ways to protect them:

  • You can safeguard your device from wind and snow by utilizing a protective sleeve or cover.
  • Eliminate moisture accumulation by storing your hearing aids in a dehumidifying container overnight.
  • Quick temperature changes can cause condensation to build-up so avoid them whenever possible.

Stay social and active

Though it might be tempting to stay inside and isolated during the cold months, your hearing health depends on you remaining involved socially. Engaging in conversations and attending social events helps keep your brain’s auditory processing sharp. Hearing retention and mental function can even be preserved by watching a movie or having coffee with friends.

Maintain good ear hygiene

Keeping clean and dry ears is crucial during winter.

Here are a number of key tips:

  • Avoid utilizing cotton swabs, which can pack wax deeper into the ear canal and raise the danger of injury.
  • 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.

Manage winter illnesses to safeguard your ears

Since colds and flu are common in winter, take extra precautions to avoid infections that can impact your ears:

  • Support your immune system by maintaining a healthy diet and staying well hydrated.
  • Think about getting a flu vaccine and wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces if necessary.
  • Clean your hands regularly to decrease exposure to germs.

Consult us for customized advice

If you detect increased ear discomfort, frequent ear infections, or problems with your hearing aids, reach out to us. We will get your hearing aids winter-ready, provide customized solutions, and evaluate any concerns you may have. Routine check-ups help catch minor issues before they get worse, keeping you prepared for the season’s difficulties.

Call us today to schedule an appointment.

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The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive personalized advice or treatment, schedule an appointment.
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