High street pharmacy giant Boots has issued a stark warning that the current cold snap could significantly worsen symptoms of tinnitus for millions of people across the UK. The health condition, characterised by persistent ringing or buzzing in the ears, affects an estimated 7.6 million Britons, roughly 13% of the population.
Weather Link to Tinnitus Flare-Ups
According to Boots, historical data shows a clear pattern of increased hospital admissions for tinnitus-related issues during the winter months. In December alone, hospitals see an average of 3,292 A&E visits for the condition, a figure that is 11% above the yearly average. This surge coincides with plummeting temperatures, such as the -3C recorded on Wednesday, 3rd December, with more cold and unsettled weather forecast.
Kayleigh Waters, an audiologist at Boots Hearingcare, explains that tinnitus is particularly sensitive to cold, windy, or stormy conditions. Fluctuations in temperature, atmospheric pressure, and humidity can all disturb the inner ear, making symptoms more pronounced. This trend is backed by a 19% increase in tinnitus-related online searches over the past quarter.
How Cold Weather Affects Your Ears
Kayleigh Waters outlines several key ways the winter weather impacts tinnitus. Firstly, cold temperatures can cause blood vessels to constrict, potentially affecting circulation to the auditory system and making the internal sounds more noticeable.
Secondly, a condition called exostosis, or 'surfer's ear', involves bony growths in the ear canal and is more common with cold exposure. "These growths can narrow the ear canal, affecting sound transmission and potentially worsening tinnitus," Waters said.
Perhaps the most significant factor is changes in atmospheric pressure, especially the low pressure that often precedes a storm. "When air pressure drops, the surrounding air becomes less dense. This can alter the balance of fluid in the inner ear, increasing pressure on the eardrum," Waters explained. Windy weather can cause similar shifts in ear pressure.
Expert Tips for Managing Tinnitus in Winter
While the weather is beyond our control, there are practical steps to manage tinnitus during colder months. Boots audiologist Kayleigh Waters shares her three key recommendations:
1. Keep Ears Moisturised: Cold, windy air can dry out the skin in the ear canal, causing irritation that may worsen tinnitus. Using ear drops can provide simple but effective relief by moisturising the area.
2. Use Background Noise: Masking the internal ringing or buzzing with external sounds can be highly effective. Listening to soothing music, white noise, or nature sounds—readily available on streaming apps—can help shift your focus away from the tinnitus.
3. Protect Your Ears: Shield your ears from both noise and cold. Keep earplugs handy for noisy environments, and wear a hat or earmuffs outdoors to prevent your ears from getting too cold, especially if you are sensitive to wind.
Waters concludes by advising anyone who notices their tinnitus worsening with the weather to consult an audiologist. A professional can help identify underlying causes and recommend tailored management techniques or hearing solutions.
