With their ability to improve communication and quality of life, hearing aids are a major asset. However, some individuals experience headaches when they first begin using hearing aids. Luckily, these headaches are usually fleeting and simple to manage with necessary adjustments and care, even if they are annoying at first. We will next explore the reasons for these headaches and how to prevent or treat them.
Why hearing aids can lead to headaches
- When the Fit is Wrong:
An incorrectly fitted hearing aid can cause pressure on the ear’s sensitive structures, resulting in headaches and discomfort. An improperly fitted device is probably the cause if you are getting headaches shortly after acquiring a new hearing aid. - Sound Overload:
The brain requires a period to adapt to the amplified volume of sounds it is processing. Initially, hearing things you previously missed– like background noise– can feel too much and cause headaches. The good news is that this reaction is typically temporary and should resolve soon. - High Volume Settings:
If the hearing aids are set too loud, the increased auditory input can cause auditory fatigue, resulting in headaches. Start with a lower volume and slowly increase it as you acclimate to your new normal. - High-Pitched Sounds:
A high-pitched whistling sound or feedback from hearing aids can irritate the ears and contribute to tension headaches. In case your device is making irritating sounds, talk to your hearing specialist. - The Acclimation Phase:
Don’t forget: Your brain needs time to acclimate to the use of your hearing aid. While the brain re-learns how to process sounds during this phase, some individuals might feel minor discomfort, including headaches.
Solutions for preventing and managing headaches
- A Proper Fitting is Key: Be sure your hearing aids are expertly fitted to avoid any pressure points inside your ear canal.
- Volume Adjustment is Key: begin at a low setting and incrementally raise the volume to keep from overtaxing your hearing system.
- Modern hearing aids include features for background noise reduction. Ask your audiologist about changing the settings or getting a newer device if yours doesn’t have this feature.
- Take Breaks: During the adjustment period, give your ears and brain some respite throughout the day to avert sensory exhaustion.
- Keep in contact with your audiologist for fine-tuning, specifically if you experience discomfort from your device.
Knowing when to contact your audiologist for headaches
It’s time to seek advise from a hearing specialist if the headaches persist after the initial adaptation or if they are accompanied by other symptoms, for example nausea, ear pain, or dizziness.
Continuing headaches might signal that you have wrong device settings or an unseen issue, including a hearing aid malfunction or an ear infection.
How the right hearing aid can enhance your life
While hearing aid headaches can be annoying, they are generally temporary and can be easily fixed with expert support. A properly adjusted hearing aid that meets your individual needs can dramatically enhance your quality of life without causing any discomfort. If you experience any issues, reach out to your audiologist– your comfort and hearing health matter! At the end of the day, if your hearing aid is causing you pain, your audiologist knows you’re prone to stop wearing it.
A Common Issue
If you’re dealing with headaches from hearing aids, don’t worry– they’re just a bump in the road to better hearing. What you’re going through is common, and can probably be resolved with a few tweaks. The appropriate care and adjustments will get you back on track, enjoying the little sounds of life, music, and conversations in short order!
Contact us for an appointment now if you are experiencing headaches due to your hearing aids.
