Seasonal Hearing Challenges: How Weather, Allergies & Colds Affect Your Ear Health

Published: 02.01.2026 ( a month ago )

Many people don’t realise that changes in the seasons can have a real impact on hearing health. From blocked ears during a winter cold to increased ear pressure during stormy weather, seasonal factors can temporarily and sometimes permanently affect how well you hear.

At Coastal Hearing in North Wales, we regularly see patients whose hearing concerns are triggered or worsened by changes in weather, allergies, and seasonal illnesses. Understanding what’s normal and when to seek help can make all the difference.

How Weather Changes Can Affect Your Hearing

Sudden changes in air pressure, particularly common along the North Wales coast, can affect the middle ear and Eustachian tube.

Common symptoms include:

  • A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ears
  • Temporary muffled hearing
  • Popping or crackling sounds
  • Mild dizziness or imbalance

Cold, windy, and damp conditions can also worsen existing ear conditions, particularly for those with:

  • Previous ear infections
  • Hearing aids
  • Balance or vestibular issues

While these symptoms often pass, persistent pressure or hearing changes should always be checked by a hearing professional.

Seasonal Allergies and Hearing Problems

Spring and summer allergies are a major cause of temporary hearing difficulties.

Hay fever and airborne allergens can cause inflammation in the nasal passages and Eustachian tubes, leading to:

  • Blocked ears
  • Reduced hearing clarity
  • Increased tinnitus symptoms

Excess mucus and swelling can prevent the ears from draining properly, which may also increase the risk of ear infections.

Tip: If your hearing worsens during allergy season every year, a hearing test can help identify whether allergies are masking an underlying hearing loss.

Colds, Flu and Ear Health in Winter

Winter illnesses are one of the most common reasons people experience sudden hearing changes.

Colds, flu, and sinus infections can cause:

  • Fluid build-up behind the eardrum
  • Temporary conductive hearing loss
  • Ear pain or discomfort
  • Worsening tinnitus

In most cases, hearing returns once the infection clears. However, if symptoms last longer than a few weeks, it’s important to seek professional advice, as untreated issues can lead to longer-term problems.

Can Seasonal Changes Affect Tinnitus?

Yes – many people report that tinnitus becomes more noticeable during certain times of year.

Possible triggers include:

  • Increased stress and fatigue
  • Sinus congestion
  • Changes in blood pressure
  • Poor sleep during illness

If tinnitus worsens seasonally, hearing aids, sound therapy, or lifestyle adjustments may help manage symptoms more effectively.

When Should You Book a Hearing Test?

You should consider booking a hearing assessment if you experience:

  • Hearing changes lasting more than 2–3 weeks
  • Repeated ear blockages or pressure
  • Sudden hearing loss
  • Persistent tinnitus or dizziness

At Coastal Hearing, we offer professional hearing tests and expert advice for patients across Colwyn Bay, Llandudno, Conwy, Anglesey and the wider North Wales area.

How Coastal Hearing Can Help

Our experienced hearing specialists can:

  • Identify whether symptoms are temporary or permanent
  • Check for wax build-up or middle-ear issues
  • Assess hearing changes linked to seasonal conditions
  • Recommend hearing protection, treatment, or hearing aids if needed

Early assessment can prevent small seasonal issues from becoming long-term hearing problems.

Book Your Hearing Test Online Today

If your hearing is affecting you, our experts are here to help.

We have clinics across North Wales

Or call us on 0800 054 8458

 

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