Exercise is a key part of a healthy lifestyle, and many people enjoy running or cycling. However, the use of hearing aids during exercise can occasionally lead to ear infections if proper care is not taken, making it an ideal setting for infections. Sweat, moisture, and the accumulation of bacteria in the ear canal can cause a lush breeding ground for infections. The good news is that by taking a few precautions, you can increase the chances of being fit, not feeling pity for your ears.
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Why Workouts Increase the Risk of Ear Infections
When you work out, your body sweats to cool itself off. Both sweat and moisture can make their way down into your hearing aids and ear canal, and this can result in:
- Bacteria thrive in warm, moist environments.
- If earwax mixes with sweat, ventilation may be blocked.
- Wearing wet hearing aids results in less effective sound quality.
- That’s why hygiene is especially crucial for anyone who uses a hearing device and exercises regularly.
Tips to Prevent Ear Infections While Using Hearing Aids During Workouts
To keep your ears clean and dry
Before and after workouts, gently wipe your ears with a soft cloth or tissue. Don’t put cotton swabs in your ear canal; this can actually push the wax down instead of pulling it out. Drying your ears prevents a buildup of sweat.
Sweat covers or protective sleeves
Some protective sleeves or sweatbands are normally offered for hearing aids. These will keep sweat off the device and help prevent moisture in your ear canal.
Clean Up Your Hearing Aids After Your Workouts
After you finish working out, remove your hearing machines and gently clean them with a hearing aid cleaning wipe or a soft, dry cloth. This also stops sweat, dust, and bacteria from settling on the device.
Apply a Hearing Aid Dehumidifier
It is also recommended that you use a hearing aid dehumidifier regularly, especially during periods of high humidity or rain.
A hearing aid dehumidifier or drying box is an investment that helps you get more mileage out of your device and prevents damage from moisture exposure. Keeping your hearing aids in overnight also ensures they are both dry and clean for the next day.
Select a Gym-Friendly Type of Hearing Aid
For individuals with an active lifestyle, RIC (Receiver-in-Canal) or BTE (Behind-the-Ear) hearing aids with moisture protection features are often recommended. Some pricier models are made with IP68 water resistance, meaning they’re more exercise-friendly.
Rest During Sweaty Activities for Short Periods of Time
If you’re working out really hard, take a few minutes to remove your hearing aids and let them dry. It’s a fast step to prevent sweat build-up in your ears.
Clean Earmoulds and Domes
If your hearing aids have custom ear molds or silicone domes, clean them with mild, soapy water (after they’re removed from the device) at least once a week, and allow them to dry completely before wearing. This prevents bacteria from accumulating.
When to See an Audiologist
Even with proper ear care, pay attention to symptoms of an early ear infection, such as itching, pain, swelling, redness, or any unusual drainage. If you recognize these symptoms, remove your hearing aids and consult your audiologist as soon as possible.
Conclusion
Exercising with hearing aid devices is not only safe, but it can also be comfortable as long as you are prepared. By keeping your belongings clean and using protective accessories on your gear and practicing good hygiene, you can reduce the risk of contracting infections when engaging in physical activity.
At Ear Solutions Hearing Aid Clinics, we ensure that you have access to the best audiologists who can assist you with the right hearing aids for an active lifestyle, as well as proper care and maintenance. So whether it’s a sweat-resistant hearing aid, cleaning supplies, or a professional checkup, you need to carry on with your workouts while maintaining your hearing health – Ear Solutions has got you covered!
