Giving better communication and a superior quality of life, hearing aids can truly be life-changing. But, a few users suffer from headaches when they first put on hearing aids. Fortunately, in spite of the frustration, these headaches are often short-lived and are easily relieved with proper adjustments and care. We will now explore the causes for these headaches and how to prevent or treat them.
The main reasons hearing aids result in headaches
- Improper Fit:
Headaches and discomfort can result if an ill-fitting hearing aid puts pressure on sensitive parts of your ear. If headaches have started 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 overwhelming and induce headaches. However, this sensation should resolve on its own before long. - Volume Set Too Loud:
Headaches may result if the volume setting is too loud, as the increased sound input can cause fatigue in the auditory system. Try beginning at a lower volume and gradually raising over time as you adjust to your new normal. - High-Pitched Sounds:
Tension headaches can be the result of a high-pitched whistling sound or feedback that comes from your hearing aids and bothers your ears. Talk to your audiologist if your device is producing sounds that are leading to agitation. - Time to Adapt:
Remember: Your brain needs time to adapt to the use of your hearing aid. During this period, some individuals experience slight discomfort, including headaches, as the brain recalibrates how to process sounds.
How to manage and prevent headaches
- Get a Correct Fitting: Be certain your hearing aids are expertly fitted to prevent pressure points in your ear canal.
- Begin at a low volume and incrementally raise it to prevent overwhelming your auditory system.
- Newer hearing aids have features for background noise reduction. Consult your audiologist about changing the settings or getting a newer device if yours lacks this feature.
- Take Listening Breaks: To avoid sensory fatigue during the adjustment phase, give your brain and ears a rest periodically.
- Regular Check-ups: Stay in touch with your hearing specialist for fine-tuning adjustments, especially if your device is causing discomfort.
Knowing when to contact your audiologist for headaches
It’s time to see a hearing specialist if the headaches continue past the first adjustment period or if they are coupled to other symptoms, such as ear pain, dizziness, or nausea.
Headaches that do not go away could indicate an underlying issue, for instance a hearing aid malfunction or an ear infection, or simply that your device settings are wrong.
The benefits of a correctly adjusted hearing aid
Headaches caused by hearing aids are usually temporary and easy to fix with expert help, though they can be frustrating. The correct hearing aid, properly adjusted to fit your needs, can substantially improve your quality of life without causing 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 as a result of hearing aids are common– they are just a temporary difficulty on the road to clearer hearing. The issue you’re experiencing is common and likely requires only a few simple tweaks to be resolved. You will quickly be back to enjoying music, conversations, and the subtle sounds of life with the right care and adjustments!
If you are experiencing headaches caused by your hearing aid, schedule an appointment now.