As temperatures drop, our ears become more sensitive to cold, leading to discomfort, earaches, and temporary hearing changes.
“Sudden temperature shifts create pressure changes in the environment, which the ear works to balance through the Eustachian tube—a tunnel connecting the middle ear to the back of the nose,” explained Stefania Goncalves, M.D., assistant professor in the UAB Department of Otolaryngology. “When these pressure changes occur too quickly, the Eustachian tube struggles to adjust, causing temporary sensations of ear fullness, pressure, pain, clogged ears, or even brief hearing changes.”
Goncalves explains how cold weather affects the ears and shares preventative tips for protection.
What happens to the blood flow in our ears during cold weather, and how does this affect overall ear health?
Goncalves: Cold weather causes the arteries in our extremities, including our ears, to narrow to conserve blood flow to the body’s core. This reduction in blood flow can cause ear pain and discomfort.
Are earaches more common in winter? How can they be prevented?
Goncalves: Ear pain is relatively common in winter. To reduce the impact, patients can take proactive steps such as gradually exposing themselves to temperature changes, covering their ears before heading outdoors, chewing gum, and staying hydrated.
How do upper respiratory infections, common in winter, affect hearing and ear health?
Goncalves: Upper respiratory infections cause swelling of the nasal lining, especially around the opening of the Eustachian tube, which disrupts its normal function. As a result, patients often experience ear pressure, a fluid or clogged sensation, ear pain, temporary hearing loss, and typical nasal symptoms.
If someone experiences hearing loss or ear pain during cold weather, when should they seek medical attention?
Goncalves: Ear-related symptoms from cold weather, such as pain, pressure, or hearing loss, typically resolve within minutes. However, if these symptoms result from an upper respiratory infection, they may persist for up to 12 weeks, with most patients experiencing significant improvement within the first couple of weeks. If these symptoms become persistent, the pain feels unusual or more severe than previous experiences, or you notice significant hearing loss (for example, difficulty using the phone with the affected ear), it is important to seek medical attention promptly for a physical examination and hearing evaluation.