Providing better communication and a superior quality of life, hearing aids can truly be life-changing. Headaches can happen for some users during the initial period of using hearing aids. Fortunately, these headaches are usually fleeting and easy to manage with necessary adjustments and care, though they are frustrating at first. Read why these headaches happen and what measures you can take to prevent or treat them!
Why hearing aids can cause headaches
- Improper Fit:
An improperly adjusted hearing aid can cause pressure on the ear’s sensitive structures, causing headaches and discomfort. If you just purchased a new hearing aid and you’re experiencing headaches, an improperly sized device is probably to blame. - Sound Overload:
Allow your brain time to adapt to the amplified sound input. The initial experience of hearing previously missed sounds, like background noise, can be intense and lead to headaches. The good news is that this reaction is usually temporary and should correct itself before long. - High Volume Settings:
Headaches may occur if the volume setting is too high, as the extra sound input can cause strain in the auditory system. Try starting out at a lower volume and gradually raising over time as you acclimatize to your new normal. - High-Pitched Sounds:
When your hearing aids produce feedback or a high-pitched whistle, it can cause irritation in the ears and result in tension headaches. If your device is making irritating sounds, talk to your hearing specialist. - The Acclimation Phase:
Remember: Your brain must be given time to adapt to the use of your hearing aid. During this period, some individuals experience mild discomfort, including headaches, as the brain recalibrates how to process sounds.
Solutions for preventing and managing headaches
- Ensure a Professional Fit: Be certain your hearing aids are expertly adjusted to eliminate any pressure points inside your ear canal.
- Gradually Adjust the Volume: Start at a comfortable volume and incrementally increase it to prevent overtaxing your auditory system.
- Use Noise Filters: Contemporary hearing aids come with background noise reduction capabilities. If your device doesn’t include this, ask your audiologist about upgrading or adjusting the settings.
- Give your brain and ears time to rest during the adaptation period to avoid sensory fatigue.
- Ensure you visit your audiologist regularly for fine-tuning, particularly if your device is causing discomfort.
Recognizing when to contact your hearing specialist for headaches
It’s time to see a hearing specialist if the headaches continue past the initial adjustment period or if they are coupled to additional symptoms, including ear pain, dizziness, or nausea.
Persistent headaches might signal that your device settings are wrong or that there’s an underlying problem, such as an ear infection or hearing aid malfunction.
A well-fitted hearing aid can improve your life
While hearing aid headaches can be bothersome, they’re usually temporary and are easily fixed with professional support. Properly adjusted to your needs, the ideal hearing aid can substantially enhance your life without causing discomfort. Reach out to your audiologist if you run into any problems; your hearing health and comfort are essential! Ultimately, your hearing specialist knows that if your hearing aid is causing you pain, you’ll likely stop wearing it.
A Common Issue
Headaches as a result of hearing aids are nothing to worry about– they are just a temporary difficulty on the road to clearer hearing. The issue you’re experiencing is common and probably requires only some simple adjustments to be resolved. The proper care and fine-tuning will enable you to quickly get back to enjoying discussions, music, and the little sounds of life.
Schedule an appointment today if you are experiencing hearing-aid related headaches.
