With their ability to boost communication and quality of life, hearing aids are a huge benefit. However, some people experience headaches when they first begin using hearing aids. Fortunately, these headaches are generally fleeting and simple to manage with necessary adjustments and care, even if they are annoying at first. Let’s find out why these headaches happen and what measures you can take to prevent or treat them!
Why hearing aids can lead to headaches
- When the Fit is Wrong:
If your hearing aid isn’t adjusted properly, it can put pressure on sensitive parts of the ear, resulting in discomfort and headaches. When headaches occur soon after receiving a new hearing aid, the issue is frequently an ill-fitting device. - Overwhelmed by Sound:
It takes time for your brain to acclimate to processing the amplified sound signals. Sounds you didn’t hear before– like ambient noise– can feel overwhelming and cause a headache when you first hear them. However, this sensation should self-correct before long. - Excessive Volume Setting:
Headaches might occur if the volume setting is too high, as the increased sound input can cause strain in the auditory system. You should attempt to begin with a lower volume and then slowly increase it as you get used to the new auditory input. - Unwanted Noise and Feedback:
If your hearing aids produce feedback or a high-pitched whistle, it can cause irritation in the ears and trigger tension headaches. Talk to your audiologist if your device is producing sounds that are leading to agitation. - The Acclimation Phase:
Remember: Your brain needs time to acclimatize to using your hearing aid. As the brain recalibrates how to process sounds during this phase, some individuals might experience slight discomfort, such as headaches.
How to manage and avoid headaches
- Seek a Proper Fitting: Have your hearing aids professionally fitted to stop the formation of pressure points in your ear canal.
- Gradually Adjust the Volume: Start at a comfortable volume and slowly increase it to prevent overwhelming your auditory system.
- Background noise reduction features are common in newer hearing aids. If your device is without this, ask your audiologist about modifying the settings or upgrading the device.
- To avoid sensory fatigue during the adjustment phase, give your brain and ears a rest throughout the day.
- Keep in touch with your audiologist for fine-tuning, specifically if you feel discomfort from your device.
When you should contact a hearing care professional about your headaches
Consult an audiologist if the headaches last after the initial adaptation time or if other symptoms– such as nausea, ear pain, or dizziness– are also present.
Persistent headaches may indicate that you have wrong device settings or an unseen issue, such as a hearing aid malfunction or an ear infection.
The benefits of a correctly adjusted hearing aid
While headaches caused by hearing aids can be bothersome, they are typically temporary and easy to manage with professional help. Without causing discomfort, the correct hearing aid, customized to your needs, can substantially boost your quality of life. If you experience any problems, reach out to your audiologist– your comfort and hearing health matter! The truth is, your hearing specialist is aware that if your hearing aid is causing you pain, you are likely to cease using it.
Temporary Headaches are Normal
If you’re dealing with headaches from hearing aids, don’t worry– they’re just a minor obstacle to better hearing. The issue you’re experiencing is common and probably requires only a few simple tweaks to be resolved. You will soon be back to enjoying music, conversations, and the subtle sounds of life with the right care and adjustments!
Schedule an appointment today if you are having headaches as a result of your hearing aids.