From skiing down slopes to snowboarding and ice skating, winter offers a ton of exhilarating activities. These activities are sure to get your adrenaline pumping, but it’s important to know the potential risks the cold weather can have on your ears. Here’s how tinnitus from cold weather can impact your hearing and why you need to protect your ears during winter sports! 

Winter sports and hearing protection

Winter sports enthusiasts often find themselves in noisy environments due to factors like wind, the sport itself and sometimes machinery. Here's why hearing protection is crucial:

Noisy wind

The brisk winter wind can create a constant, high-pitched sound that may not be immediately noticeable but can contribute to hearing damage over time.

Helmet designs

While helmets are essential for safety during winter sports, some designs may inadvertently amplify sound, increasing exposure to noise levels that can harm your hearing.

Loud environments

Ski resorts, ice rinks and snowmobile trails can be noisy places, especially during peak times. Protecting your hearing in these environments is vital.

Snowmobiles and snow equipment

Snowmobiles, snow blowers and other snow equipment can produce noise levels well above safe limits. Prolonged exposure to such noise can lead to noise-induced hearing loss.

Choosing the right hearing protection

Earplugs

High-fidelity earplugs are an excellent choice for winter sports. They reduce noise levels while preserving the clarity of important sounds, such as communication from fellow skiers or snowboarders.

Earmuffs

Earmuffs that fit snugly over your ears can provide effective protection from the cold wind and noise generated by machinery. Look for models designed for winter sports enthusiasts.

Helmet feature

If you wear a helmet during your sport, consider one with built-in earmuffs or noise-reduction technology to provide integrated hearing protection.

Tinnitus from cold weather

Tinnitus is the perception of ringing or buzzing sound in the ears when there's no external source of sound. It can be exacerbated by cold weather in these ways:

Vasoconstriction

Cold temperatures can cause blood vessels to constrict, reducing blood flow. This can affect the delicate hair cells in the inner ear, potentially increasing tinnitus symptoms.

Increased muscle tension

Cold weather can lead to increased muscle tension, including in the neck, jaw and shoulders. Tension in these areas can contribute to tinnitus or worsen existing symptoms.

Dehydration

In cold weather, people may be less inclined to drink water. Dehydration can impact blood circulation, potentially affecting the inner ear and tinnitus.

Managing tinnitus in cold weather

If you have tinnitus and are concerned about cold weather exacerbating your symptoms, here are some tips!

Stay warm

Dress warmly to minimize the effects of cold temperatures and vasoconstriction.

Stay hydrated

Drink plenty of water to maintain good blood circulation.

Manage stress

Practice relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga to reduce muscle tension, which can alleviate tinnitus.

Wear hearing protection

Protecting your ears from loud noises is essential, as noise exposure can worsen tinnitus.

Consult an audiologist

If tinnitus becomes bothersome, consult an audiologist, like us. We can provide guidance and therapies to manage tinnitus effectively.

Contact us

Whether you're racing down the slopes or enjoying a peaceful skate on a frozen lake, prioritize hearing health! Also, be aware of how cold weather can affect tinnitus and take steps to manage it effectively. By staying safe and informed, you can enjoy all the joys of winter sports without compromising your hearing health.

Contact us today if you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of hearing loss or tinnitus from cold weather and see how we can help!