As winter temperatures drop, hospitals are gearing up for a predictable rise in admissions related to ear problems. In December alone, emergency departments typically see an average of 3,292 visits per hospital for ear-related issues—a figure that is 11% higher than the annual average.
Tinnitus, the persistent ringing or buzzing in the ears that affects approximately 13% of the UK population (around 7.6 million people), is especially sensitive to cold, windy, or stormy weather. Changes in temperature, atmospheric pressure, and humidity can worsen symptoms. This pattern is mirrored by a 19% increase in online searches about tinnitus over the last few months.
While most people can manage tinnitus at home, some experience severe flare-ups that require emergency care. Kayleigh Waters, an audiologist at Boots Hearingcare, explains: “One of the key weather-related triggers for tinnitus is fluctuations in atmospheric pressure, especially low pressure before storms. These shifts can disrupt the inner ear’s balance, making symptoms more noticeable.”
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She continues: “When air pressure drops, the surrounding air becomes less dense, which can affect fluid balance in the inner ear. This increases pressure on the eardrum and can impact blood flow to the auditory system.”
Cold temperatures also play a role. “A condition called exostosis, or ‘surfer’s ear’, involves bony growths in the ear canal and is common among those frequently exposed to cold or windy environments,” Kayleigh notes. “These growths narrow the ear canal, which can worsen tinnitus by affecting sound transmission.”
Moreover, cold weather causes blood vessels to constrict, potentially reducing blood circulation to the ears and intensifying tinnitus symptoms.
Kayleigh adds that blustery weather can cause shifts in ear pressure, further aggravating tinnitus. For people with allergies to dust mites or pollen, time spent indoors during autumn and winter can lead to increased exposure to allergens, worsening their tinnitus. Additionally, congestion and sinus pressure linked to colds and allergies can affect the Eustachian tube, which regulates ear pressure, triggering flare-ups.
Though the weather itself is unavoidable, there are effective strategies to ease tinnitus during harsh conditions. Kayleigh offers three practical tips:
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Keep ears moisturised
“Cold air and wind dry out the skin inside the ear canal, causing irritation that worsens tinnitus,” Kayleigh advises. “Using ear drops is a simple but effective way to keep your ears moisturised and comfortable.”
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Use background noise
“The ringing and buzzing of tinnitus can feel more intense during poor weather,” she explains. “Listening to soothing sounds like white noise or gentle music helps shift your focus away from tinnitus. You can find white noise playlists on streaming services or YouTube.”
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Protect your ears
“Loud noises can increase discomfort for people with tinnitus, especially when symptoms are already aggravated by weather changes,” Kayleigh notes. “Use earplugs in noisy environments and wear earmuffs or a hat to keep your ears warm during cold, windy days.”
Kayleigh concludes, “If your tinnitus worsens with the weather, consult an audiologist. They can pinpoint the causes and suggest personalised management techniques or hearing solutions to help you cope.”