Can the Change in Season Affect My Hearing and Hearing Aids?

Nov 24, 2022

Hearing aids are an amazing piece of technology, but like all technology, they can be affected by being too hot or too cold. As such, the changes from the warm summer season to the cooler fall season and further into winter can affect how your hearing aids work. Not only that, but our ears in general are very distinctive and temperamental structures, and can also be affected by the change in season.

 

Read on to learn more about how exactly the colder temperatures can affect your hearing and hearing aids.

 

How the Seasonal Change Affects Your Hearing

 

When it comes directly to your hearing, your ears and thus your hearing can change due to the change in seasons. For example, one of the most common causes of hearing difficulties in the fall can be caused by seasonal allergies, especially hay fever. You might find yourself experiencing periods of difficulty hearing or dry ears, both of which can be treated by over-the-counter allergy medications quite easily.

 

The cold also affects the blood vessels in the ears, which is why our ears tend to get colder quickly if left uncovered in cooler weather. Hats, headbands, and earmuffs can be a great and easy way to keep your ears warm and let the blood vessels in your ears act as they should. Frostbite can be particularly painful in the ears if they are left out in the cold since the ears are so sensitive to pain and damage.

 

How the Seasonal Change Affects Your Hearing Aids

 

Hearing aids can also be affected by the change of season. The cold and dry air can sometimes cause zinc-air batteries to drain faster than they normally would. Also, condensation that occurs can damage the internal components of the hearing aids as well. For example, if you’re wearing a warm hat that covers your ears, but you’re walking fast enough to sweat a little, the sweat can cause moisture damage to your hearing aids.

 

Luckily, any damage brought on by moisture can be fixed quite easily by properly cleaning your hearing aids. During the fall and winter seasons, try to do the following whenever you come in from outside, if possible:

 

● Check that the batteries have not been corroded by any moisture. If they have, there will be a crusty white substance on them. Make certain to change them instantly if you notice this. If you have disposable batteries, make sure they have been inserted correctly.

● Look at whether there is any moisture on the battery contacts. If you notice it, simply take a clean cotton swab and clean the moisture away.

 

 

We at ENT Medical and Surgical Group want to make certain you get the most out of your hearing aids and have a team ready to answer any questions you might have about hearing loss or hearing care. Schedule an appointment by contacting us today!



A woman is covering her ears while a man snores in the background.

How to Stop Snoring

12 Nov, 2024
Snoring is more than just a nighttime issue; it can indicate something is wrong with your body. Many people may brush it off as a harmless habit, but for some, snoring can disrupt sleep patterns, lead to daytime fatigue, and even strain relationships. Moreover, it can sometimes indicate underlying health conditions like sleep apnea. Understanding the reasons behind snoring and finding effective ways to address it can make a big difference in sleep quality and overall well-being.
portrait of a woman experiencing dizziness

How Do You Know If Dizziness Is Serious?

29 Oct, 2024
Dizziness is something almost everyone experiences at some point. It refers to a sensation of lightheadedness, unsteadiness, or feeling like the world is spinning. It can have many causes, from dehydration to anxiety or even changes in your inner ear. Though uncomfortable, dizziness usually resolves on its own. However, sometimes it can be a sign of a more significant problem.
A doctor is examining a man 's ear with an otoscope.

How To Relieve an Ear Infection

15 Oct, 2024
Ear infections are common and can cause significant discomfort. They often occur when bacteria or viruses infect the middle ear, leading to inflammation and fluid buildup. While most of them are not serious, they can be painful and disruptive. Knowing how to relieve an ear infection can help alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.
A man is getting a his throat checked.

How To Tell If You Have Tonsillitis

04 Oct, 2024
Tonsillitis is a condition that involves the inflammation of the tonsils, which are two small glands located at the back of your throat. These glands are part of your immune system and help protect your body from infections. However, when they become inflamed, they can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms. Recognizing the signs of tonsillitis early on can help you seek appropriate medical treatment.
A woman is sitting in a chair blowing her nose with a napkin.

How To Clear a Stuffed Nose

16 Sep, 2024
A stuffy nose, also known as nasal congestion, can be frustrating. It makes breathing difficult, disrupts sleep, and can even affect your sense of taste and smell. The good news is that there are various effective strategies to clear congestion and get back to breathing easily.
A woman is sitting on a couch holding a glass of water and a pill.

How to Get Rid of Laryngitis

02 Sep, 2024
Laryngitis is a common condition that causes inflammation in the larynx, also known as the voice box. Symptoms include a hoarse voice, a sore throat, and sometimes a fever or coughing.
A doctor is examining a child 's throat with a thermometer.

Is Bacterial Tonsillitis Contagious?

15 Aug, 2024
Tonsillitis, the inflammation of the tonsils, often causes a scratchy or sore throat, making swallowing uncomfortable. It can be a real drag, especially when you're worried about spreading it to others. But is bacterial tonsillitis contagious?
A man wrapped in a blanket using an oral spray.

How to Stop Postnasal Drip

30 Jul, 2024
Postnasal drip is a common condition where excess mucus accumulates in the throat or back of the nose. This mucus can originate from the sinuses or nasal passages. It often leads to coughing, throat irritation, and a frequent need to clear the throat. Understanding its causes and finding effective treatments can greatly improve comfort and health.
Two women are sitting at a table talking to each other in sign language

Can Hearing Loss Cause Speech Problems?

17 Jul, 2024
Hearing loss can significantly impact various aspects of life, including communication. While many people associate hearing loss with difficulty understanding sounds, it can also lead to speech problems. Let’s explore the connection between hearing loss and speech problems, how they are linked, and what challenges people with hearing loss might face.
A man with a hearing problem is covering his ears with his hands.

Understanding Different Types of Hearing Loss

01 Jul, 2024
Hearing loss is a surprisingly common condition that affects people of all ages. It can range from mild to profound, impacting daily life in various ways. If you suspect you or someone you know might have hearing loss, understanding the different types can be the first step toward finding solutions. Let’s understand the different types and their causes, which will help you seek a proper diagnosis and treatment.
More Posts
Share by: