Providing better communication and a higher quality of life, hearing aids are usually life-altering. Headaches can occur for some users during the initial period of using hearing aids. Fortunately, in spite of the annoyance, these headaches are often short-lived and can be easily resolved with proper adjustments and care. Let’s explore why these headaches happen and how to prevent or treat them!
Why hearing aids can cause headaches
- When the Fit is Wrong:
Headaches and discomfort can arise if an ill-fitting hearing aid presses on sensitive parts of your ear. If headaches occur soon after getting a new hearing aid, the issue is often an ill-fitting device. - Sound Overload:
Your brain requires time to adapt to processing amplified sounds. At first, hearing things you previously couldn’t– like background noise– can feel overwhelming and trigger headaches. Nevertheless, this sensation is should correct itself before long. - High Volume Settings:
If hearing aids are too loud, the high level of sound input can fatigue your auditory system, leading to headaches. Try beginning at a lower volume and gradually raising over time as you adjust to your new normal. - Feedback and Whistling:
If your hearing aids produce feedback or a high-pitched whistle, it can lead to irritation in the ears and result in tension headaches. If your device is making irritating sounds, talk to your audiologist. - Adjustment Period:
Remember: Your brain needs time to get used to using your hearing aid. As the brain re-learns how to process sounds during this period, some individuals may feel minor discomfort, such as headaches.
How to treat and prevent headaches
- A Proper Fitting is Key: Be sure your hearing aids are professionally fitted to eliminate any pressure points inside your ear canal.
- Adjust Volume Gradually: Begin with a comfortable volume level and slowly raise it to keep from overwhelming your auditory system.
- Newer hearing aids have features for background noise reduction. Consult your audiologist about changing the settings or getting a newer device if yours doesn’t have this capability.
- Rest Your Ears and Brain: Throughout the day, take breaks during the acclimation period to avoid the onset of sensory exhaustion.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Maintain scheduled check-ups with your audiologist for fine-tuning, particularly if you are experiencing discomfort.
Recognizing when to reah out to your audiologist for headaches
See an audiologist if the headaches last after the initial adaptation time or if other symptoms– like nausea, ear pain, or dizziness– are accompanying them.
Headaches that do not go away could suggest an underlying issue, such as a hearing aid malfunction or an ear infection, or simply that your device settings are incorrect.
How the right hearing aid can improve your life
While hearing aid headaches can be annoying, they’re usually temporary and can be easily fixed with professional support. Properly fitted to your needs, the right hearing aid can vastly improve your life without creating discomfort. Reach out to your audiologist if you run into any problems; 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.
A Common Side Effects
If you’re dealing with headaches from hearing aids, don’t worry– they’re just a bump in the road to better hearing. Your experience is common, and some simple tweaks can likely resolve the issue. The appropriate care and adjustments will get you back on track, enjoying the little sounds of life, music, and conversations quickly!
Schedule an appointment today if you are experiencing headaches due to your hearing aids.