However, if you have hearing loss, this kind of exposure to the winter elements can exacerbate your condition or even lead to uncomfortable long-term complications. Here’s why it’s so important to wear ear coverings when venturing out into the cold this winter. 

How cold temperatures affect your ears 

Human ears are almost entirely cartilage with little to no fat for insulation and nerves just under the surface of the skin. This means they can get cold very quickly, and our outer ears don’t offer much protection for the more delicate inner ear. 
Sensitive parts of your body, including the tissues in the ear canals, may be prone to achiness when exposed to cold air. 

Cold weather and ear infections 

Contrary to popular belief, exposure to cold temperatures doesn’t directly cause ear infections. However, it can make them more likely.  
Put simply, cold weather leads to congestion and mucus buildup, which presents an excellent breeding ground for the bacteria that do cause sinus and ear infections.  
Clothing items like scarves, wraps, neck warmers, or even masks that help keep your mouth and nose warm can help avoid or reduce congestion and, in turn, lower the risk of ear infection. 
You can also take precautions to avoid catching a cold or the flu, which can also lead to congestion and potential complications. 

Winter weather and hearing 

Even for people without hearing loss, winter often feels like a generally quieter time of year. In some cases, it’s simply that fewer people are out and about due to the cold weather, so there aren’t as many voices in the air or cars on the road.  On top of that, snow can act as a sound absorber, making sounds, especially at a distance, seem much quieter by the time they reach your ears. 
Weather affects ear pressure when changes in barometric (or “atmospheric”) pressure result in a difference between the pressure in the inner and outer ear, making it feel like your ears need to be popped and muffling sound. These changes can happen at any time of the year (they often accompany storms or sudden changes in temperature) but may be even more noticeable during the colder months. 
Head congestion is common this time of year and can also put pressure on the inner ear, dampening sounds and temporarily increasing hearing loss, even if it doesn’t end up leading to an ear infection. 

What to do if you notice hearing changes 

If you notice signs that you or a loved one might be experiencing hearing loss this winter, there are a few things you can do. Consider whether the change in hearing could be related to congestion or illness like a cold or the flu. This may resolve on its own as you recover.  
If you're experiencing severe pain, there’s a buildup of fluid coming out of your ear, or additional hearing loss is accompanied by dizziness or vomiting, it’s time to get checked by your physician for an inner ear infection.  
If you notice a seasonal increase in your hearing loss but don’t have those additional symptoms, you can talk with your audiologist about possible causes and whether they recommend any remedies.