Hearing aids can be game-changing, offering better communication and superior quality of life. Headaches can occur for some wearers during the initial period of using hearing aids. Luckily, these headaches are generally fleeting and easy to manage with necessary adjustments and care, even if they are annoying at first. Let’s examine why these headaches happen and how to avoid or treat them!
Prevalent causes of headaches from hearing aids
- Improper Fit:
Headaches and discomfort can arise if an ill-fitting hearing aid presses on sensitive parts of your ear. An improperly fitted device is most likely the cause if you are getting headaches shortly after acquiring a new hearing aid. - Overwhelmed by Sound:
Your brain needs time to adjust to processing louder sounds. Sounds you couldn’t hear before– like ambient noise– can feel overwhelming and cause a headache when you first hear them. However, this sensation should resolve on its own before long. - Volume Set Too Loud:
When hearing aids are too loud, the high level of sound input can tire your auditory system, which can cause headaches. It’s best to start at a lower volume and gradually increase it as you adjust to your new normal. - Feedback and Whistling:
Tension headaches can be the result of a high-pitched whistling sound or feedback that comes from your hearing aids and bothers your ears. If your device is producing irritating sounds, talk to your audiologist. - Adjustment Period:
Remember: Your brain needs time to get used to using your hearing aid. During this period, some individuals experience slight discomfort, including headaches, as the brain re-learns how to process sounds.
How to treat and avoid headaches
- A Proper Fitting is Key: Be sure your hearing aids are expertly fitted to eliminate any pressure points inside your ear canal.
- Start at a low setting and incrementally increase the volume to keep from overwhelming your hearing system.
- Background noise reduction features are standard in modern hearing aids. If your device is without this, speak with your audiologist about modifying the settings or replacing the device.
- Rest Your Ears and Brain: Throughout the day, take breaks during the acclimation period to prevent the onset of sensory fatigue.
- Regular Check-ups: Stay in touch with your audiologist for fine-tuning adjustments, particularly if your device is causing discomfort.
Recognizing when to contact your hearing specialist for headaches
If the headaches persist beyond the initial adjustment period or are joined by other symptoms– like dizziness, ear pain, or nausea– it’s time to see an audiologist.
Persistent headaches may suggest that your device settings are wrong or that there’s an underlying problem, such as an ear infection or hearing aid malfunction.
How the right hearing aid can enhance your life
With professional help, headaches from hearing aids are generally temporary and simple to resolve, despite being frustrating. A correctly adjusted hearing aid that meets your individual needs can dramatically enhance your quality of life without resulting in any discomfort. Reach out to your audiologist if you run into any problems; your hearing health and comfort matter! The truth is, your hearing specialist knows that if your hearing aid is causing you pain, you are likely to cease wearing it.
Hearing aid-assosiated headaches
Headaches resulting from hearing aids are no cause for worry– think of them as a small obstacle toward better hearing. This is a common experience, and it will probably be resolved with a few modifications. You will soon be back to enjoying music, conversations, and the subtle sounds of life with the right care and adjustments!
Schedule an appointment today if you are experiencing headaches as a result of your hearing aids.