Summer Hearing Care Tips: Protecting Your Ears During the Hottest Months
Summer is a season full of fun — from beach trips and swimming pools to outdoor concerts and fireworks displays. However, while you’re enjoying the sunshine and warm weather, we recommend paying extra attention to your hearing health. The heat, humidity, and noise levels that come with summer activities can present unique challenges for both your ears and your hearing aids.
Here are some practical summer hearing care tips to help you protect your hearing and keep your devices performing their best all season long.
Keep Hearing Aids Dry
Moisture is one of the biggest threats to hearing aids, and summer often means increased sweat, humidity, and exposure to water.
Tips:
Remove your hearing aids before swimming, showering, or participating in water sports.
Use a hearing aid dehumidifier or drying kit overnight to remove moisture.
Keep a small microfiber cloth with you to wipe away sweat throughout the day.
Protect Your Ears from Loud Noises
Summer is packed with noisy events like concerts, festivals, fireworks, and sporting events. Prolonged exposure to loud sounds can cause permanent damage to your hearing.
Tips:
Bring and wear high-quality earplugs or noise-canceling earmuffs to loud events to protect your hearing.
Keep your distance from speakers and fireworks displays.
Follow the 60/60 rule for personal listening devices: limit volume to no more than 60% for 60 minutes at a time.
Be Careful with Sunscreen and Bug Spray
While sunscreen and insect repellent are summer essentials, they can accidentally get into the tiny openings of your hearing aids, leading to damage or malfunction.
Tips:
Apply sunscreen and bug spray before inserting your hearing aids.
Wash your hands before handling your devices to avoid residue buildup.
Protect Your Ears While Swimming
Swimmer’s ear and water trapped in the ear canal can lead to infections and hearing problems.
Tips:
Use swim earplugs if you plan to spend a lot of time in the water.
Dry your ears thoroughly after swimming by gently tilting your head to drain excess water or using a towel.
See your audiologist or physician if you experience discomfort, fullness, or drainage in your ear.
Need help with summer hearing care? Contact us today to schedule a check-up or get expert advice on protecting your hearing year-round.