Providing better communication and a higher quality of life, hearing aids are often transformative. When first beginning to use them, some users experience headaches. Luckily, these headaches are generally fleeting and simple to manage with the right adjustments and care, even if they are annoying at first. Let’s find out why these headaches occur and what measures you can take to solve them!
Prevalent causes of headaches from hearing aids
- When the Fit is Wrong:
Should your hearing aid lack a correct fit, it may exert pressure on sensitive areas of the ear, which may lead to headaches and general discomfort. If you just got a new hearing aid and you’re experiencing headaches, a poorly fitted device is probably to blame. - A Rush of Sound:
Your brain requires time to adapt to processing amplified sounds. The initial experience of hearing previously missed sounds, like background noise, can be intense and lead to headaches. Fortunately, this sensation typically resolves naturally before long. - Volume Set Too Loud:
If the hearing aids are set too loud, the increased auditory input can cause auditory fatigue, causing headaches. Try starting out at a lower volume and gradually raising over time as you adjust to your new normal. - 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 irritates your ears. Make sure to talk to your hearing specialist if your device emits any sound that causes agitation. - Time to Adapt:
Your brain requires time to become accustomed to using your new hearing aid, so keep that in mind. While the brain re-learns how to process sounds during this period, some individuals may experience slight discomfort, such as headaches.
How to manage and avoid headaches
- Get a Proper Fitting: Make sure your hearing aids are expertly fitted to avoid pressure points in your ear canal.
- begin at a low setting and incrementally raise the volume to avoid overtaxing your hearing system.
- Use Noise Filters: Contemporary hearing aids come with background noise reduction capabilities. If your device doesn’t have this, ask your audiologist about adjusting or upgrading the settings.
- Throughout the day, take breaks during the acclimation period to prevent the onset of sensory fatigue.
- Ensure you visit your audiologist regularly for fine-tuning, particularly if your device is causing discomfort.
When you need to contact a hearing care specialist about your headaches
See an audiologist if the headaches persist after the initial adjustment time or if other symptoms– such as nausea, ear pain, or dizziness– are accompanying them.
Headaches that persist could indicate an underlying issue, for instance 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. The right hearing aid, properly adjusted to fit your needs, can significantly improve your quality of life without causing discomfort. If you experience any issues, contact your audiologist– your comfort and hearing health matter! The truth is, your hearing specialist is aware that if your hearing aid is painful, you will probably cease using it.
Hearing aid-assosiated headaches
If you’re experiencing headaches from hearing aids, don’t worry– they’re just a small hurdle to better hearing. This is a common experience, and it will probably be resolved with a few modifications. The proper care and fine-tuning will enable you to soon return to enjoying discussions, music, and the subtle sounds of life.
Schedule an appointment now if you are suffering from hearing-aid related headaches.