Providing better communication and a superior quality of life, hearing aids can truly change lives. When first starting to use them, some users experience headaches. Fortunately, these headaches are usually fleeting and simple to manage with necessary adjustments and care, even if they are frustrating at first. Read why these headaches develop and what measures you can take to prevent or treat them!
The main reasons hearing aids cause headaches
- Improper Fit:
Headaches and discomfort can result if an ill-fitting hearing aid puts pressure on delicate parts of your ear. When headaches occur soon after getting a new hearing aid, the issue is often a poorly fitted device. - Sound Overload:
The brain needs a period to adapt to the increased volume of sounds it is processing. Initially, hearing sounds you didn’t hear before– such as background noise– can be too much and induce headaches. However, this phenomenon should self-correct before long. - High Volume Settings:
If the hearing aids are set too loud, the increased auditory input can cause auditory fatigue, causing headaches. You should try to begin with a lower volume and then incrementally increase it as you adjust to the changed auditory input. - High-Pitched Sounds:
When your hearing aids produce feedback or a high-pitched whistle, it can lead to irritation in the ears and result in tension headaches. Speak with your hearing specialist if your device is creating sounds that cause agitation or annoyance. - Time to Adapt:
Don’t forget: Your brain must be given time to adapt to the use of your hearing aid. During this period, some people experience minor discomfort, including headaches, as the brain re-learns how to process sounds.
Solutions for preventing and managing headaches
- Have your hearing aids professionally fitted to prevent the formation of pressure points in your ear canal.
- Volume Adjustment is Key: begin at a comfortable setting and incrementally increase the volume to avoid overtaxing your hearing system.
- Modern hearing aids have features for background noise reduction. Consult your audiologist about changing the settings or getting a newer device if yours lacks this capability.
- To avoid sensory fatigue during the adjustment period, allow your brain and ears a rest throughout the day.
- Maintain regular check-ups with your hearing specialist for fine-tuning, especially if you are feeling discomfort.
When you need to consult a hearing care professional about your headaches
If the headaches persist beyond the initial adjustment period or are accompanied by other symptoms– like dizziness, ear pain, or nausea– it’s time to see a hearing specialist.
An underlying problem, such as a hearing aid malfunction or an ear infection, or incorrect device settings may be indicated by headaches that continue.
A well-fitted hearing aid can improve your life
While headaches caused by hearing aids can be bothersome, they are usually temporary and easy to fix with professional assistance. The correct hearing aid, properly adjusted to fit your needs, can substantially improve your quality of life without causing discomfort. If any problems arise, make sure to contact your audiologist– your hearing health and comfort are essential! At the end of the day, if your hearing aid is causing you pain, your audiologist knows you’re prone to stop wearing it.
Hearing aid-assosiated headaches
If you’re dealing with headaches from hearing aids, don’t worry– they’re just a small hurdle to better hearing. The problem you’re experiencing is common and probably needs only a few simple tweaks to be resolved. With the right care and adjustments, you’ll be back on track, enjoying conversations, music, and the subtle sounds of life in no time!
If you are experiencing headaches related to your hearing aid, book an appointment now.