Hearing aids can be transformative, providing better communication and improved quality of life. But, a few individuals experience headaches when they first put on hearing aids. Fortunately, these headaches are usually fleeting and easy to manage with necessary adjustments and care, though they are annoying at first. We will next explore the reasons for these headaches and how to resolve them.
The main reasons hearing aids lead to headaches
- Improper Fit:
An improperly adjusted hearing aid can create pressure on the ear’s delicate structures, resulting in headaches and discomfort. If headaches occur soon after receiving a new hearing aid, the issue is often a poorly fitted device. - Sound Overload:
Your brain requires time to adapt to processing louder sounds. The initial sensation of hearing previously missed sounds, like background noise, can be overwhelming and lead to headaches. However, this sensation should self-correct before long. - Volume Set Too Loud:
Headaches may result if the volume setting is too high, as the extra sound input can cause fatigue in the auditory system. Start with a lower volume and gradually raise it as you get used to your amplified hearing. - Unwanted Noise and Feedback:
Tension headaches can be the result of a high-pitched whistling sound or feedback that is produced by your hearing aids and bothers your ears. Contact your hearing specialist if your device is creating sounds that lead to agitation or annoyance. - Time to Adapt:
Don’t forget: Your brain must be given time to acclimate to the use of your hearing aid. As the brain recalibrates how to process sounds during this period, some individuals may experience minor discomfort, such as headaches.
Tips to prevent and treat headaches
- Ensure a Professional Fit: Be sure your hearing aids are expertly fitted to eliminate any pressure points inside your ear canal.
- Raise Volume Slowly: Begin with a comfortable volume level and slowly increase it to keep from taxing your auditory system.
- Utilize Noise Filters: Contemporary hearing aids usually have background noise reduction capabilities. If your device doesn’t have this, ask your audiologist about upgrading or adjusting the settings.
- Take Listening Breaks: To prevent sensory exhaustion during the adjustment period, give your brain and ears a rest throughout the day.
- Maintain regular check-ups with your hearing specialist for fine-tuning, particularly if you are feeling discomfort.
When to consult a audiologist for your headaches
You should consult a hearing specialist if the headaches continue past the initial adjustment phase or if they are paired with additional symptoms, including ear pain, dizziness, or nausea.
Headaches that do not go away could suggest an underlying issue, for instance a hearing aid malfunction or an ear infection, or simply that your device settings are incorrect.
The advantages of a properly adjusted hearing aid
Though hearing aid headaches can be annoying, they are generally temporary and can be easily fixed with expert support. A correctly fitted hearing aid that meets your specific needs can dramatically improve your quality of life without resulting in any discomfort. If you experience any problems, reach out to your audiologist– your comfort and hearing health are important! Your audiologist recognizes that pain from your hearing aid will likely cause you to stop wearing it.
A Common Side Effects
Don’t panic if you’re getting headaches from your hearing aids– they are just a small hurdle on the path to improved hearing. The issue you’re experiencing is common and probably requires only a few simple tweaks to be resolved. The proper care and fine-tuning will allow you to quickly get back to enjoying discussions, music, and the little sounds of life.
Schedule an appointment now if you are experiencing hearing-aid related headaches.
