Offering better communication and an improved quality of life, hearing aids are often life-altering. When first beginning to use them, some users experience headaches. Fortunately, despite the frustration, these headaches are often short-lived and can be easily relieved with correct adjustments and care. Here, we’ll investigate the causes of these headaches and the best ways to prevent or treat them!
The main reasons hearing aids lead to headaches
- Poor Fitting:
Headaches and discomfort can arise if an ill-fitting hearing aid puts pressure on sensitive areas of your ear. If headaches occur soon after getting a new hearing aid, the problem is frequently an ill-fitting device. - Overwhelmed by Sound:
Allow your brain time to adjust to the amplified sound input. At first, hearing things you previously couldn’t– like background noise– can feel too much and cause headaches. The good news is that this reaction is usually temporary and should resolve before long. - Excessive Volume Setting:
Setting the volume too loud can lead to sensory fatigue from the excessive input, thereby triggering headaches. Try beginning at a lower volume and gradually increasing over time as you get used to your new level of hearing. - 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 hearing specialist if your device is creating sounds that lead to agitation or annoyance. - Time to Adapt:
Your brain needs time to become accustomed to using your new hearing aid, so keep that in mind. While the brain recalibrates how to process sounds during this period, some people might feel minor discomfort, including headaches.
Solutions for preventing and managing headaches
- Get a Correct Fitting: Be certain your hearing aids are professionally fitted to avoid pressure points in your ear canal.
- Adjust Volume Gradually: Begin with an easy volume level and gradually increase it to prevent taxing your auditory system.
- Activate Noise Filters: Background noise reduction capabilities are standard in modern hearing aids. If your device is missing this, ask your audiologist about adjusting the settings or upgrading the device.
- Give your brain and ears time to rest during the adjustment period to prevent sensory fatigue.
- Regular Check-ups: Stay in touch with your hearing specialist for fine-tuning adjustments, particularly if your device is causing discomfort.
When you should contact a hearing care professional about your headaches
It’s time to see a hearing specialist if the headaches persist past the first adjustment phase or if they are paired with other symptoms, including ear pain, dizziness, or nausea.
Continuing headaches might signal that you have incorrect device settings or an unseen problem, including a hearing aid malfunction or an ear infection.
How the correct hearing aid can enhance your life
With professional help, headaches from hearing aids are generally temporary and simple to fix, despite being annoying. Without causing discomfort, the correct hearing aid, customized to your needs, can substantially improve your quality of life. If any problems occur, be sure to contact your audiologist– your hearing health and comfort are important! Your audiologist recognizes that pain from your hearing aid will likely cause you to stop wearing it.
A Common Side Effects
Don’t panic if you’re experiencing headaches from your hearing aids– they are just a minor hurdle on the path to improved hearing. What you’re going through is common, and can probably be resolved with a few modifications. The right care and adjustments will get you back on track, enjoying the little sounds of life, music, and conversations in short order!
Book an appointment today if you are dealing with headaches caused by your hearing aids.
