Hearing aids are frequently life-changing, resulting in superior communication and a higher quality of life. But, a few individuals suffer from headaches when they initially begin wearing hearing aids. Fortunately, in spite of the annoyance, these headaches are often short-lived and can be easily resolved with proper adjustments and care. Let’s find out why these headaches occur and what steps you can take to solve them!
The main reasons hearing aids lead to headaches
- Poor Fitting:
If your hearing aid isn’t fitted properly, it can put pressure on delicate parts of the ear, resulting in pain and headaches. If headaches are occurring with your new hearing aid, it’s probable an improperly fitted device. - Sound Overload:
Your brain requires time to adjust to processing louder sounds. Initially, hearing things you previously missed– like background noise– can feel too much and induce headaches. The good news is that this reaction is typically temporary and should correct itself before long. - Excessive Volume Setting:
If the hearing aids are set too loud, the increased auditory input can cause auditory fatigue, resulting in headaches. Start with a lower volume and slowly increase it as you acclimate to your amplified hearing. - High-Pitched Sounds:
A high-pitched whistling sound or feedback from hearing aids can annoy the ears and contribute to tension headaches. Talk to your hearing specialist if your device is making sounds that are causing agitation. - Adjustment Period:
Don’t forget: Your brain must be given time to adapt 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.
How to manage and prevent headaches
- Get a Proper Fitting: Be certain your hearing aids are expertly fitted to prevent pressure points in your ear canal.
- Raise Volume Gradually: Start with a comfortable volume level and gradually increase it to avoid overwhelming your auditory system.
- Background noise reduction features are common in modern hearing aids. If your device is without this, ask your audiologist about adjusting the settings or upgrading the device.
- Give your brain and ears a break during the adjustment period to prevent sensory fatigue.
- Regular Check-ups: Stay in contact with your audiologist for fine-tuning adjustments, particularly if your device is causing discomfort.
Recognizing when to reah out to your hearing specialist for headaches
It’s time to consult a hearing specialist if the headaches persist past the first adjustment phase or if they are paired with additional symptoms, including ear pain, dizziness, or nausea.
Persistent headaches might indicate that your device settings are wrong or that there’s an underlying issue, such as an ear infection or hearing aid malfunction.
The advantages of a properly adjusted hearing aid
While headaches caused by hearing aids can be bothersome, they are typically temporary and easy to resolve with professional help. Without causing discomfort, the right hearing aid, customized to your needs, can significantly improve your quality of life. Reach out to your audiologist if you experience any issues; your hearing health and comfort matter! Your audiologist recognizes that pain from your hearing aid is likely to make you stop wearing it.
A Common Issue
If you’re dealing with headaches from hearing aids, don’t worry– they’re just a minor obstacle to better hearing. This is a common experience, and it will probably be resolved with minor modifications. With the right care and adjustments, you’ll be back on track, enjoying conversations, music, and the little sounds of life in no time!
Schedule an appointment now if you are experiencing hearing-aid related headaches.