With their ability to boost communication and quality of life, hearing aids are a major asset. But, a few users get headaches when they initially put on hearing aids. While this can be frustrating, the good news is that these headaches are generally temporary and easy to manage with the proper care and adjustments. Here, we’ll explore the causes of these headaches and the best ways to prevent or treat them!
Why hearing aids can cause headaches
- Poor Fitting:
Should your hearing aid lack a correct fit, it might put pressure on vulnerable areas of the ear, which may lead to headaches and general discomfort. If headaches occur soon after getting a new hearing aid, the problem is frequently a poorly fitted device. - Overwhelmed by Sound:
The brain needs a period to adapt to the increased volume of sounds it is processing. The initial sensation of hearing previously missed sounds, like background noise, can be overwhelming and lead to headaches. However, this effect is expected to resolve over time. - Excessive Volume Setting:
If the hearing aids are adjusted too loud, the increased auditory input can cause sensory fatigue, resulting in headaches. It’s best to begin at a lower volume and gradually increase it as you adjust to your new way of hearing. - High-Pitched Sounds:
A high-pitched whistling sound or feedback from hearing aids can irritate the ears and contribute to tension headaches. Talk to your hearing specialist if your device is creating sounds that cause agitation or annoyance. - The Acclimation Phase:
Your brain requires time to adapt to using your new hearing aid, so keep that in mind. Headaches and other mild discomforts might be felt by some during this adjustment period, as the brain re-learns sound processing.
Tips to manage and avoid headaches
- Seek a Proper Fitting: Have your hearing aids expertly fitted to stop the formation of pressure points in your ear canal.
- Raise Volume Gradually: Start with a comfortable volume level and gradually increase it to keep from overwhelming your auditory system.
- Background noise reduction features are common in modern hearing aids. If your device is without this, speak with your audiologist about adjusting the settings or upgrading the device.
- To avoid sensory exhaustion during the adjustment phase, allow your brain and ears a rest throughout the day.
- Keep in touch with your audiologist for fine-tuning, especially if you feel discomfort from your device.
When to see a hearing specialist for your headaches
You should see a hearing specialist if the headaches persist past the initial adjustment period or if they are coupled to other symptoms, such as ear pain, dizziness, or nausea.
An underlying issue, such as a hearing aid malfunction or an ear infection, or wrong device settings might be signaled by headaches that persist.
A well-fitted hearing aid can enhance your life
With professional help, headaches from hearing aids are usually temporary and easy to fix, in spite of being frustrating. A correctly adjusted hearing aid that meets your individual needs can significantly improve your quality of life without resulting in any discomfort. Make sure to call your audiologist if you have any problems, as your hearing health and comfort matter! The reality is, your hearing specialist is aware that if your hearing aid is painful, you will probably cease wearing it.
Temporary Headaches are Normal
Don’t panic if you’re getting headaches from your hearing aids– they are just a minor obstacle on the path to improved hearing. The problem you’re experiencing is common and probably requires only some simple tweaks to be resolved. With the correct care and adjustments, you’ll be back on track, enjoying conversations, music, and the subtle sounds of life in no time!
Schedule an appointment today if you are suffering from hearing-aid related headaches.
