Giving improved communication and a superior quality of life, hearing aids can truly be life-changing. Headaches can occur for some users during the first period of using hearing aids. Even though this may be aggravating, it is a good thing that these headaches are usually temporary and simple to manage with proper care and fine-tuning. Read why these headaches happen and what steps you can take to prevent or treat them!
The main reasons hearing aids lead to headaches
- Poor Fitting:
Should your hearing aid lack a correct fit, it may put pressure on sensitive areas of the ear, which can cause headaches and general discomfort. When headaches occur soon after getting a new hearing aid, the problem is often a poorly fitted device. - A Rush of Sound:
Let your brain have time to adapt to the amplified sound input. Initially, hearing sounds you couldn’t hear before– such as background noise– can be overwhelming and induce headaches. The good news is that this phenomenon is usually temporary and should correct itself before long. - Volume Set Too Loud:
When hearing aids are too loud, the increased sound input can tire your auditory system, leading to headaches. Begin with a lower volume and gradually increase it as you get used to your new normal. - Unwanted Noise and Feedback:
When your hearing aids emit feedback or a high-pitched whistle, it can cause irritation in the ears and result in tension headaches. Make sure to talk to your audiologist if your device emits any sound that causes agitation. - Time to Adapt:
Remember: Your brain needs time to acclimatize to using your hearing aid. During this period, some individuals experience minor discomfort, including headaches, as the brain re-learns how to process sounds.
How to manage and avoid headaches
- Get a Correct Fitting: Make sure your hearing aids are expertly fitted to avoid pressure points in your ear canal.
- Gradually Adjust the Volume: Start at a low volume and incrementally increase it to avoid overtaxing your auditory system.
- Utilize Noise Filters: Contemporary hearing aids usually have background noise reduction features. If your device doesn’t include this, ask your audiologist about upgrading or adjusting the settings.
- Take Breaks: During the adjustment period, give your ears and brain some respite throughout the day to prevent sensory exhaustion.
- Regular Check-ups: Stay in touch with your audiologist for fine-tuning adjustments, particularly if your device is leading to discomfort.
When to see a hearing specialist for your headaches
You should see a hearing specialist if the headaches persist past the initial adjustment phase or if they are accompanied by other symptoms, such as ear pain, dizziness, or nausea.
Persistent headaches might suggest that your device settings are off or that there’s an underlying problem, such as an ear infection or hearing aid malfunction.
The benefits of a correctly adjusted hearing aid
With professional assistance, headaches from hearing aids are generally temporary and easy to resolve, despite being frustrating. Without causing discomfort, the right hearing aid, customized to your needs, can significantly improve your quality of life. If you experience any issues, contact your audiologist– your comfort and hearing health are important! In the end, your hearing specialist knows that if your hearing aid is causing you pain, you’ll probably stop wearing it.
Temporary Headaches are Normal
Headaches as a result of hearing aids are common– they are just a minor difficulty on the road to clearer hearing. What you’re experiencing is common, and can most likely be resolved with a few adjustments. With the correct 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.