Living in Bend, Oregon means enjoying beautiful landscapes and stunning outdoor activities. Equally though, we can’t ignore the unique challenges the high desert climate poses, such as arid air, dust, and intense winds. These factors can take a toll on our health in all sorts of ways, and not least of which is our ears. Is there a link between the climate in Bend and ear issues? Could it be impacting your hearing? Let’s explore.
Bend’s Unique Climate and Its Impact on Our Ears
Bend sits at the foot of the Cascade Mountains, and its climate is a mix of dry high desert air and lush, cool mountain air on the western edge. This unique combination of conditions can be a little too harsh on our ears. The high desert environment can lead to increased amounts of dust in the air, and strong winds can also lead to ear problems. Changes in humidity levels can also affect the ears, as a lack of sufficient moisture in the air can lead to dryness and itchiness in and around the ears. The dryness in the air makes ears more susceptible to inflammation and infection, resulting in earaches and other unpleasant symptoms.
Acute Causes of Ear Problems in Bend’s Climate
There are several specific ear problems that can be exacerbated by the unique climate of Bend. The first is “swimmer’s ear”, which is an infection of the outer ear. The ear canal becomes inflamed, and the thin layer of skin lining the ear swells. Swimming, particularly in cold water, has been shown to exacerbate this condition. The dusty environment, as well as the high winds, can also lead to an accumulation of foreign particles inside the ear canal. This can cause itchiness and inflammation and lead to an increased risk of an infection. If the eardrum is damaged (e.g. by flying on an airplane), changes in air pressure can also lead to ear pain.
Chronic Ear Problems in Bend’s Climate
In addition to acute ear problems, Bend’s unique climate can also contribute to long-term ear health issues. Ear, nose and throat physicians often report seeing an increased prevalence of chronic ear problems in patients living in arid climates like Bent. One relatively common chronic ear issue is Chronic Otitis Media, a long-term, persistent inflammation of the middle ear. This condition occasionally flares up and may be triggered by seasonal changes in temperature and humidity. Chronic ear conditions are often more difficult to treat and can lead to persistent ear discomfort and loss of hearing.
What You Can Do to Protect Your Ears
Avoiding chronic ear problems and discomfort in Bend’s climate starts with proper ear hygiene practices. Always dry your ears thoroughly after swimming or showering, and consider using earplugs to prevent an increase in foreign particles in the ear from the dry, dusty climate. Additionally, stay hydrated and consider using a saline nasal spray during the cold, dry fall and winter months to help keep moisture levels in the nasal passages consistent.
When participating in outdoor activities in Bend, consider using protective head gear (for example, a hat or helmet) to help keep dust and dirt out of the ears. If you experience an earache or notice any unusual ear discomfort, call your ear, nose, and throat physician.
Final Thoughts
The unique climate of Bend, Oregon with its dry, dusty high desert air, and intense winds can pose unique challenges to our overall health – including our ear health. While there is no concrete evidence that Bend’s climate directly causes ear issues, the continued presence of these environmental irritants in the air can lead to an increased levels of ear discomfort. Practicing proper ear hygiene, staying hydrated, and wearing protective head gear can all help mitigate and protect your hearing from the unique challenges of Bend’s climate.
It’s always a good idea to keep on top of your hearing and make routine visits to your ear, nose, and throat physician. With the right steps in place, you can enjoy Bend’s unparalleled natural beauty without worrying about how it impacts your health.
