Hearing aids are often life-changing, leading to better communication and a higher quality of life. However, some people experience headaches when they first begin using hearing aids. While this can be aggravating, the good news is that these headaches are typically temporary and simple to manage with the right care and adjustments. We will now explore the reasons for these headaches and how to prevent or treat them.
Why hearing aids can lead to headaches
- Poor Fitting:
Headaches and discomfort can result if an ill-fitting hearing aid presses on delicate areas of your ear. If headaches have started with your new hearing aid, the likely cause is an improperly fitted device. - Overwhelmed by Sound:
Allow your brain time to adjust to the louder sound input. At first, hearing things you previously couldn’t– like background noise– can feel excessive and trigger headaches. Fortunately, this phenomenon typically resolves on its own before long. - Volume Set Too Loud:
Setting the volume too loud can result in auditory fatigue from the excessive input, thereby triggering headaches. It’s best to begin at a lower volume and slowly increase it as you adjust to your new normal. - Feedback and Whistling:
Hearing aids that make feedback or a high-pitched whistling sound can irritate the ears and cause tension headaches. If your device is making irritating sounds, talk to your audiologist. - Adjustment Period:
Your brain needs time to adapt to using your new hearing aid, so keep that in mind. The brain will be re-learning how to process sounds during this adjustment period, which can cause slight discomfort, including headaches.
Tips to manage and avoid headaches
- Have your hearing aids expertly fitted to stop the formation of pressure points in your ear canal.
- Raise Volume Gradually: Begin with a comfortable volume level and gradually increase it to avoid taxing your auditory system.
- Background noise reduction features are common in modern hearing aids. If your device is missing this, ask your audiologist about modifying the settings or upgrading the device.
- Throughout the day, take breaks during the acclimation period to prevent the onset of sensory fatigue.
- Maintain Regular Contact: Keep in contact with your audiologist for fine-tuning, specifically if you feel discomfort from your device.
When you should contact a hearing care specialist about your headaches
It’s time to see an audiologist if the headaches persist after the initial adjustment or if they are accompanied by other symptoms, like nausea, ear pain, or dizziness.
Headaches that persist could suggest 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 enhance your life
Headaches resulting from hearing aids are typically temporary and easy to fix with expert assistance, even though they can be frustrating. The right hearing aid, properly adjusted to fit your needs, can substantially enhance your quality of life without causing discomfort. If you experience any issues, reach out to your audiologist– your comfort and hearing health matter! At the end of the day, if your hearing aid is leading to pain, your audiologist knows you’re prone to stop wearing it.
Temporary Headaches are Normal
If you’re experiencing headaches from hearing aids, don’t worry– they’re just a bump in the road to better hearing. Your experience is common, and a few simple adjustments can probably fix the issue. The right care and fine-tuning will allow you to quickly get back to enjoying discussions, music, and the subtle sounds of life.
If you are suffering from headaches related to your hearing aid, book an appointment now.