Looking after your hearing in the heat
When summer arrives and the sun is shining, we naturally focus on protecting our skin with suncream, staying hydrated, and enjoying time outdoors. But one area we often overlook is our hearing. Just like your skin, your ears, and any hearing aids you might use, need a little extra care in the warmer months.
Whether you're heading off on a beach holiday, enjoying garden barbecues, or dancing at a festival, here’s how to protect your hearing and ear health during the summer.
Heat and humidity: A challenge for hearing aids
Summer heat can be particularly harsh on hearing aids. Hearing aids are sensitive to both temperature and moisture. Leaving them in direct sunlight or inside a hot car, even for a short time, can cause damage or affect performance. Excessive heat can drain batteries faster or even warp internal components.
Tips
Never leave hearing aids on windowsills, in glove boxes, or out in the sun.
Store them in a cool, dry place when you're not wearing them.
Use a dehumidifier case overnight if you're in a humid climate or sweat more than usual.
Swimming, sweat and water safety
Summer often means swimming, pools, and water sports. These are great fun, but not always ear-friendly. When water enters the ear canal, especially dirty or chlorinated water, it can lead to infections like swimmer’s ear (otitis externa). This condition can be painful and may affect your hearing temporarily.
Earol Swim tea tree oil helps protect ears from trapped water and reduces the risk of swimmer’s ear by creating a water-repellent, antibacterial barrier.
Tips
Consider using earplugs specifically designed for swimming.
Dry your ears gently with a towel after being in the water, tilting your head to each side to help water escape.
If you wear hearing aids, always remove them before swimming and dry your ears thoroughly before putting them back in.
If you're prone to ear infections, talk to your audiologist about preventive care options.
Stay hydrated
We all know hydration is important in summer, but did you know that it also plays a role in your hearing health? The inner ear relies on good blood circulation, and staying well-hydrated helps ensure that oxygen and nutrients are effectively delivered to this delicate area.
Tips
Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially when active or out in the sun.
Avoid too much caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate you more quickly.
Eat water-rich foods like cucumber, watermelon, and strawberries to boost hydration naturally.
Protect your ears from loud noises
Summer is packed with events, from open-air concerts and music festivals to fireworks displays and lively street parties. While these are great fun, they often come with dangerously high noise levels. Prolonged exposure to sounds over 85 decibels (roughly the volume of city traffic or a loud radio) can cause long-term hearing damage.
Tips
Carry reusable or foam earplugs with you and use them when noise levels are high.
Take breaks from loud areas when you can, your ears need rest too.
If you're at a festival or concert, try to stand away from speakers.
For children, use specially designed ear defenders to protect their more sensitive hearing.
Don't ignore warning signs
Summertime activities can sometimes expose us to ear risks we may not realise until symptoms appear. If you experience any of the following, it’s time to speak with a hearing specialist:
Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
A sense of fullness or pressure in the ears
Dizziness or imbalance
Sudden or gradual loss of hearing
Pain or discharge from the ear
Catching issues early can often prevent further problems and lead to more effective treatment.
Holiday travel and hearing tips
If you're travelling abroad this summer, a little prep can make your trip much smoother, especially if you use hearing aids:
Pack extra batteries or a charger if your hearing aids are rechargeable.
Take a waterproof travel case to protect your devices from moisture and sand.
Consider downloading a hearing aid app (if supported) for remote adjustments while you're away.
Need support this summer? The Sense of Hearing is here to help
Looking after your hearing doesn’t stop just because the sun’s out. In fact, summer presents a unique set of challenges for your ears and hearing aids. The good news? With just a few simple precautions, you can keep your ears healthy and your hearing aids working their best.
At The Sense of Hearing, we’re here to help with expert advice, hearing checks, hearing aid maintenance, and more. If you have any concerns about your hearing or need support with your hearing aids this summer, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Enjoy the sunshine safely and don’t forget to give your ears the care they deserve this summer!
