Providing better communication and a higher quality of life, hearing aids are usually life-altering. When first beginning to use them, some users report headaches. Although this might be frustrating, it is fortunate that these headaches are generally temporary and simple to manage with appropriate care and fine-tuning. Let’s find out why these headaches occur and what measures you can take to prevent or treat them!
Why hearing aids can trigger headaches
- Poor Fitting:
An incorrectly adjusted hearing aid can create pressure on the ear’s sensitive structures, causing headaches and discomfort. If headaches have started with your new hearing aid, the likely cause is an improperly fitted device. - Overwhelmed by Sound:
The brain needs a period to become accustomed to the amplified volume of sounds it is processing. At first, hearing things you previously missed– like background noise– can feel overwhelming and induce headaches. However, this sensation should self-correct before long. - Volume Set Too Loud:
If hearing aids are too loud, the increased sound input can tire your auditory system, which can cause headaches. You should attempt to begin with a lower volume and then incrementally increase it as you adjust to the new auditory input. - Feedback and Whistling:
Hearing aids that produce feedback or a high-pitched whistling sound can bother the ears and cause tension headaches. Contact your hearing specialist if your device is making sounds that lead to agitation or annoyance. - The Acclimation Phase:
Your brain requires time to adapt to using your new hearing aid, so keep that in mind. During this period, some individuals experience mild discomfort, including headaches, as the brain re-learns how to process sounds.
Tips to prevent and treat headaches
- Seek a Proper Fitting: Have your hearing aids professionally fitted to prevent the formation of pressure points in your ear canal.
- Gradually Adjust the Volume: Begin at a comfortable volume and incrementally increase it to avoid overtaxing your auditory system.
- Background noise reduction capabilities are standard in newer hearing aids. If your device is missing this, speak with your audiologist about modifying the settings or upgrading the device.
- Take Breaks: During the adjustment period, allow your ears and brain some rest throughout the day to avoid sensory fatigue.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Maintain regular check-ups with your audiologist for fine-tuning, particularly if you are experiencing discomfort.
When you should contact a hearing care professional about your headaches
If the headaches persist beyond the initial adaptation period or are accompanied by other symptoms– such as dizziness, ear pain, or nausea– it’s time to see an audiologist.
Persistent headaches may signal that you have wrong device settings or an unseen issue, such as a hearing aid malfunction or an ear infection.
A well-fitted hearing aid can enhance your life
With professional help, headaches from hearing aids are usually temporary and simple to fix, despite being annoying. Properly adjusted to your needs, the right hearing aid can substantially improve your life without causing discomfort. If you experience any problems, reach out to your audiologist– your comfort and hearing health are important! In the end, your hearing specialist knows that if your hearing aid is creating pain, you’ll likely stop using it.
Hearing aid-related headaches
If you’re dealing with headaches from hearing aids, don’t worry– they’re just a bump in the road to better hearing. This is a common experience, and it’s likely to be resolved with a few modifications. You will quickly be back to enjoying music, conversations, and the subtle sounds of life with the correct care and adjustments!
Schedule an appointment right away if you are suffering from headaches related to your hearing aids.