With their ability to boost communication and quality of life, hearing aids are a major benefit. When first starting to use them, some users experience headaches. While this can be frustrating, the good news is that these headaches are generally temporary and easy to manage with the proper care and adjustments. Let’s examine why these headaches happen and how to avoid or treat them!
The main reasons hearing aids cause headaches
- When the Fit is Wrong:
If your hearing aid isn’t fitted correctly, it can press against delicate parts of the ear, resulting in discomfort and headaches. If you just purchased a new hearing aid and you’re experiencing headaches, an ill-fitting device is most likely to blame. - Overwhelmed by Sound:
Your brain needs time to adapt to processing amplified sounds. Initially, perceiving sounds you couldn’t hear before– such as background noise– can be too much and trigger headaches. The good news is that this reaction is typically temporary and should correct itself before long. - Volume Set Too Loud:
Setting the volume too loud can lead to auditory fatigue from the high-volume input, thereby triggering headaches. Try starting out at a lower volume and gradually raising over time as you adjust to your new normal. - Feedback and Whistling:
When your hearing aids produce feedback or a high-pitched whistle, it can cause irritation in the ears and trigger tension headaches. If your device is making irritating sounds, reach out to your audiologist. - Adjustment Period:
It is important to remember that Your brain needs a period of time to adjust to your hearing aid. Headaches and other mild discomforts might be experienced by some during this adjustment period, as the brain re-learns sound processing.
Tips to manage and avoid headaches
- A Proper Fitting is Key: Be certain your hearing aids are expertly fitted to avoid any pressure points inside your ear canal.
- Volume Adjustment is Key: begin at a comfortable setting and incrementally increase the volume to avoid overtaxing your hearing system.
- Utilize Noise Filters: Contemporary hearing aids usually have background noise reduction capabilities. If your device doesn’t include this, ask your audiologist about adjusting or upgrading the settings.
- Take Breaks: During the adjustment period, allow your ears and brain some rest throughout the day to prevent sensory fatigue.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Maintain regular check-ups with your hearing specialist for fine-tuning, particularly if you are feeling discomfort.
When you should contact a hearing care specialist about your headaches
It’s time to consult a hearing specialist if the headaches continue past the first adjustment period or if they are coupled to additional symptoms, including ear pain, dizziness, or nausea.
Persistent headaches may suggest that your device settings are off 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
While headaches caused by hearing aids can be annoying, they are typically temporary and easy to resolve with professional help. The right hearing aid, correctly adjusted to fit your needs, can substantially enhance your quality of life without leading to discomfort. Reach out to your audiologist if you experience any problems; your hearing health and comfort matter! Your audiologist understands that pain from your hearing aid will likely make you stop wearing it.
A Common Issue
Headaches as a result of hearing aids are nothing to worry about– they are just a minor setback on the road to clearer hearing. Your experience is common, and a few simple adjustments can likely resolve the issue. You will soon be back to enjoying music, conversations, and the small sounds of life with the correct care and adjustments!
Schedule an appointment today if you are experiencing headaches due to your hearing aids.