Providing better communication and an improved quality of life, hearing aids are often transformative. However, some people experience headaches when they first begin using hearing aids. Although this may be aggravating, it is fortunate that these headaches are generally temporary and easy to handle with proper care and fine-tuning. We will next explore the reasons for these headaches and how to prevent or treat them.
Common causes of headaches from hearing aids
- When the Fit is Wrong: Should your hearing aid lack a correct fit, it may put pressure on vulnerable areas of the ear, which can cause headaches and general discomfort. An improperly fitted device is probably the cause if you are experiencing headaches shortly after acquiring a new hearing aid.
- Sound Overload: Your brain requires time to adjust to processing amplified sounds. Initially, hearing things you previously missed– like background noise– can feel too much and induce headaches. Luckily, this phenomenon usually resolves on its own in a short time.
- Excessive Volume Setting: If the hearing aids are set too loud, the increased auditory input can cause sensory fatigue, leading to headaches. You should attempt to begin with a lower volume and then slowly raise it as you get used to the changed auditory input.
- High-Pitched Sounds: Tension headaches can be caused by a high-pitched whistling sound or feedback that comes from your hearing aids and irritates your ears. Contact your hearing specialist if your device is making sounds that lead to agitation or annoyance.
- Time to Adapt: Remember: Your brain needs time to adapt to using your hearing aid. Headaches and other mild discomforts might be felt by some during this adjustment period, as the brain re-learns sound processing.
How to manage and prevent headaches
- Ensure a Professional Fit: Be certain your hearing aids are professionally adjusted to eliminate any pressure points inside your ear canal.
- Start at a low setting and incrementally increase the volume to keep from overtaxing your hearing system.
- Use Noise Filters: Contemporary hearing aids come with background noise reduction features. If your device doesn’t have this, ask your audiologist about upgrading or adjusting the settings.
- Throughout the day, take breaks during the acclimation period to prevent the onset of sensory fatigue.
- Regular Check-ups: Stay in contact with your hearing specialist for fine-tuning adjustments, particularly if your device is causing discomfort.
When to consult a hearing specialist for your headaches
If the headaches persist beyond the initial adjustment period or are joined by other symptoms– such as dizziness, ear pain, or nausea– it’s time to see a hearing specialist.
Headaches that do not go away could indicate an underlying issue, such as a hearing aid malfunction or an ear infection, or simply that your device settings are incorrect.
How the correct hearing aid can improve your life
While headaches caused by hearing aids can be frustrating, they are generally temporary and easy to resolve with professional assistance. Properly adjusted to your needs, the ideal hearing aid can vastly improve your life without causing discomfort. Should any issues occur, be sure to contact your audiologist– your hearing health and comfort are important! Your audiologist understands that pain from your hearing aid is likely to cause you to stop wearing it.
Hearing aid-assosiated headaches
Headaches resulting from hearing aids are common– think of them as a minor obstacle toward better hearing. The problem you’re experiencing is common and likely needs only a few simple tweaks to be resolved. The right care and fine-tuning will enable you to quickly return to enjoying discussions, music, and the subtle sounds of life.
Schedule an appointment now if you are suffering from hearing-aid related headaches.