LA CROSSE, Wis. (WXOW) – Harvest season is creating unexpected challenges for some farmers with hearing aids.

Dr. Rebecca Younk, doctor of audiology and owner of Beltone Onalaska , said more patients are coming in this time of year with devices damaged by dust, dirt, and sweat from long days in the field.

"The microphones on the back of the hearing aids are susceptible to damage when there's a lot of dust in the air," Younk said. " Then, with the weather being very hot and humid, perspiration. The hearing aids sit right on that ear—right at the hairline—and we notice people have a lot of damage due to moisture as well."

Younk said farmers who spend more time outside enclosed tractor cabs are especially prone to problems.

Dirty hands can also transfer oils, wax, and debris into

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