Hearing aids are frequently life-changing, resulting in superior communication and a superior quality of life. When first starting to use them, some users experience headaches. Luckily, despite the annoyance, these headaches are often short-lived and are easily relieved with correct adjustments and care. Let’s examine why these headaches happen and how to prevent or treat them!
Prevalent causes of headaches from hearing aids
- Poor Fitting:
Headaches and discomfort can arise if an ill-fitting hearing aid puts pressure on delicate parts of your ear. If headaches have started with your new hearing aid, the likely cause is a poorly fitted device. - A Rush of Sound:
The brain requires a period to become accustomed to the amplified volume of sounds it is processing. Sounds you couldn’t hear before– like ambient noise– can feel overwhelming and cause a headache when you first hear them. However, this effect is expected to disappear before long. - Volume Set Too Loud:
If the hearing aids are set too loud, the excessive auditory input can cause sensory fatigue, causing headaches. Start with a lower volume and slowly raise it as you get used to your amplified hearing. - High-Pitched Sounds:
A high-pitched whistling sound or feedback from hearing aids can irritate the ears and contribute to tension headaches. Make sure to talk to your audiologist if your device is producing any sound that leads to agitation. - Adjustment Period:
Keep in mind: Your brain needs a period of time to acclimate to your hearing aid. The brain will be re-learning how to process sounds during this adjustment phase, which can lead to minor discomfort, including headaches.
How to treat and prevent headaches
- Get a Proper Fitting: Be certain your hearing aids are expertly fitted to prevent pressure points in your ear canal.
- Gradually Adjust the Volume: Start at a low volume and slowly increase it to avoid overtaxing your auditory system.
- Utilize Noise Filters: Modern hearing aids come with background noise reduction features. If your device doesn’t include this, ask your audiologist about adjusting or upgrading the settings.
- Allow your brain and ears a break during the adaptation period to avoid sensory fatigue.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Maintain scheduled check-ups with your hearing specialist for fine-tuning, especially if you are feeling discomfort.
When to see a hearing specialist for your headaches
If the headaches persist beyond the initial adaptation period or are joined by other symptoms– like dizziness, ear pain, or nausea– it’s time to talk to a hearing specialist.
An underlying problem, such as a hearing aid malfunction or an ear infection, or wrong device settings might be suggested by headaches that continue.
A well-fitted hearing aid can enhance your life
With professional help, headaches from hearing aids are usually temporary and easy to fix, in spite of being annoying. The correct hearing aid, correctly adjusted to fit your needs, can significantly enhance your quality of life without leading to discomfort. Be sure to call your audiologist if you have any issues, as your hearing health and comfort matter! In the end, your hearing specialist knows that if your hearing aid is causing you pain, you’ll probably stop using it.
Hearing aid-assosiated headaches
Headaches resulting from hearing aids are no cause for worry– think of them as a minor setback toward better hearing. The problem you’re experiencing is common and likely requires only some simple adjustments to be resolved. You will soon be back to enjoying music, conversations, and the subtle sounds of life with the right care and adjustments!
Schedule an appointment now if you are having headaches as a result of your hearing aids.