Boots has issued a warning, predicting a rise in hospital admissions for a common health issue during December, following historical trends. Typically, December sees an average of 3,292 A&E visits per hospital for this concern, which is 11% higher than the annual average, highlighting the impact of winter conditions.
This forecast comes as temperatures plunged to as low as -3C on December 3, with the Met Office anticipating more chilly and unsettled weather for the week ahead. Today, on December 4, the weather service reports “Breezy conditions for many and colder temperatures compared to yesterday.”
Tinnitus, characterized by persistent ringing or buzzing in the ears affecting approximately 13% of the UK population (equivalent to 7.6 million individuals), is particularly sensitive to cold, windy, or stormy weather. Changes in temperature, pressure, and humidity can exacerbate symptoms, evident in a 19% surge in tinnitus-related searches over the past quarter.
While many cases of tinnitus can be managed at home, severe flare-ups may lead to emergency room visits. To assist individuals in caring for their ears and mitigating the impact of cold weather on conditions like tinnitus, Kayleigh Waters, an audiologist at Boots Hearingcare, shares practical tips.
Kayleigh highlights how cold temperatures can intensify tinnitus sensations, mentioning a condition known as exostosis or ‘surfer’s ear,’ where bony growths in the ear canal are more common among individuals exposed to cold or windy environments.
She explains that fluctuations in atmospheric pressure, particularly low pressure preceding storms, significantly influence tinnitus symptoms by causing disruptions in the inner ear, often worsening during such weather events.
Furthermore, blustery weather can lead to changes in ear pressure, potentially heightening tinnitus symptoms. Individuals with allergies may experience worsened tinnitus during autumn and winter due to increased indoor time and allergen exposure, affecting the Eustachian tube and contributing to flare-ups.
To handle tinnitus during harsh weather conditions, Kayleigh offers three recommendations:
1. Keep ears moisturized to prevent dryness and irritation, which can exacerbate tinnitus symptoms.
2. Use background noise like soothing music or white noise to shift focus away from tinnitus sounds.
3. Protect your ears from loud noises and cold weather by wearing earmuffs or earplugs.
If worsening tinnitus symptoms persist with changing weather, consulting an audiologist is advised for personalized management strategies or hearing solutions.