Spring is officially here! With the changing of seasons we will soon enjoy warmer weather and blooming flowers all around us. As with everything, we get a little bit of good and not-so-good with this change, including rainy days, erratic temperatures and seasonal allergies. When we have hearing loss and use hearing aids, sometimes these changes can affect us, but there are things we can do to minimize those effects.
Changing Weather Conditions
When the weather changes, you may experience a feeling of fullness in your ears. This is caused by changes in barometric pressure, which can make the fluid in the inner ear sensitive to the weather. Those who suffer from seasonal allergies may experience this even more intensely.
If you have Meniere’s disease, springtime weather changes can be especially irritating. The chambers of your inner ear may bulge and the fluid can back up. This may cause discomfort and even difficulty hearing. Vertigo or tinnitus can sometimes result from this build-up.
Seasonal Allergies
Seasonal allergies is another common irritant to your ears. The resulting sinus pressure and sneezing can also add pressure to the inner ear.
40 percent of children and between 10 and 30 percent of adults are effected by seasonal aggergies, and up to 60 million Americans experience sneezing, sinus pressure, ear pressure, and itchy, watery eyes. All of these symptoms can temporarily affect hearing.
Fluid build-up or ear pressure can be remedied temporarily with over-the-counter medicines like decongestants and antihistamines. A proper diet of whole foods and a moderate amount of exercise can improve these symptoms. Some vegetables and fruits, such as grapes, bell peppers, watermelon, asparagus and celery, act as diuretics and encourage fluid draining.
Spring-time and Hearing Aids
The functionality of your hearing aids may also be affected by the warmer and wetter weather conditions. The maintenance and care of your hearing aids during this time of year may also require a bit more attention. The microphone ports can potentially become clogged by allergens like bee pollen. Always be sure to clean your hearing aids regularly and replace the mic port covers when needed.
The heat, rain and humidity that often accompany spring and summer can also introduce more moisture to your hearing aids, as it can build up in the tubing or cause static due to build-up in the microphone or receiver. Always be sure to dry your hearing aids thoroughly when going out in wet or very humid weather.
Los Gatos Audiology is here to help you protect your hearing health. Call today and come in for your yearly hearing exam so you can stay ahead of the curve and protect your hearing, your brain and your health.
We’ve served San Jose and the Bay Area for over 40 years, providing the right solution for Your Life. Your Style.
Los Gatos Audiology 15899 Los Gatos-Almaden Rd., Suite 8 Los Gatos, CA 95032
For an appointment please call (408) 354-1312 or visit www.losgatosaudiology.com.