How to Protect Your Ears From Cold Weather and Prevent Infections
In Frederick, the cold winter months have everyone bundling up in their warmest and coziest winter clothes to combat the harsh, chilly air. Thick coats, fuzzy gloves, scarves, and hats are not only essential for staying comfortable but are also the season’s must-have items.
While we focus on keeping the rest of our bodies warm, it’s important to remember our ears, which are especially sensitive to the cold. Taking a proactive approach to protect them is key.
To avoid painful ear infections this winter, start by keeping your ears warm and shielded from the cold.
How Is the Winter Season Connected to Ear Infections?
Ear infections are painful and uncomfortable. They can cause temporary hearing loss, muffled hearing, pain, ringing sensations, and balance issues. During the winter season, our ears are more susceptible to the cold than other parts of the body. This is because the ears are mostly made of cartilage and lack the fat content present in other parts of the body. This makes the ears more sensitive to the cold, unable to keep themselves warm.
Without proper winter protection, the ears become more at risk of developing infections. Infections in the sinuses and throat can easily travel to the ears, especially if we spend time out in the cold without proper ear protection.
Protect Your Ears From the Cold and Prevent Ear Infections
If you’re especially concerned about your ears’ health this winter season, keep in mind a few ways to protect your ears, keep them warm, and prevent ear infections:
- Keep ears warm
To fully protect your ears from the risk of infections, the most important thing is to take proactive steps in keeping them warm, especially if you spend time outdoors during the winter months.
Winter hats, scarves, and earmuffs can provide your ears with warmth and protection, minimizing the risk of developing infections. The more the ears stay warm, the more ear infections become an unlikely occurrence.
- Ears should always be dry
Water and moisture make the ears a perfect environment for infections. Remember to always keep your ears dry and clear from any moisture. Gently clean and dry the ears with a towel after showers, baths, and any activities that might have gotten the insides of the ears wet.
- Don’t forget ear protection during wet activities
If you’re one to enjoy the water and wet activities during winter like skiing and swimming, make sure your ears have enough protection. Earmuffs, earplugs, and swimming caps are some necessary items that can help with that.
- Strengthen your immune system
Upper respiratory conditions like sinusitis, colds, and the flu can lead to ear infections if left untreated. By preventing these infections early on, you can reduce the risk of developing ear problems.
Boost your immunity to stay ahead of these issues. Focus on a balanced diet rich in vitamins and nutrients, stay hydrated, get plenty of sleep, exercise regularly, manage stress, and consider adding vitamins and supplements to support your overall health.
- If you wear hearing aids…
If you or someone you know wears hearing aids, it’s worth noting that the cold season can also impact their functionality.
Water and moisture can damage hearing aids so protecting them with hats, scarves, and earmuffs is crucial. Protect their battery as well by releasing excess moisture – open the battery compartment once you get home from spending time outdoors in the cold.
- Schedule a consultation with your ENT specialist
Finally, even if you’re not feeling signs of an ear infection yet, it would be wise to schedule an appointment with an ENT specialist, especially if you have sensitive ears.
An ENT specialist can help examine your ears’ overall health and offer advice on how you can manage existing symptoms and discomfort. At Frederick Breathe Free, we aim to do that just – to help our patients stay healthy and comfortable regardless of the season. Schedule a consultation with us today and end your ears’ suffering today.
