Hearing aids are often life-changing, leading to superior communication and a superior quality of life. Yet, a few users suffer from headaches when they first put on hearing aids. Although this might be frustrating, it is fortunate that these headaches are usually temporary and simple to manage with appropriate care and fine-tuning. Let’s examine why these headaches happen and how to prevent or treat them!
The main reasons hearing aids lead to headaches
- Improper Fit:
Should your hearing aid lack a correct fit, it may put pressure on sensitive areas of the ear, which may lead to headaches and general discomfort. If headaches have started with your new hearing aid, it’s probable a poorly fitted device. - Overwhelmed by Sound:
The brain needs a period to adapt to the increased volume of sounds it is processing. Initially, perceiving sounds you couldn’t hear before– like background noise– can be too much and trigger headaches. The good news is that this phenomenon is typically temporary and should resolve before long. - High Volume Settings:
If the hearing aids are set too loud, the excessive auditory input can cause sensory fatigue, causing headaches. You should try to begin with a lower volume and then slowly increase it as you adjust to the new auditory input. - Feedback and Whistling:
A high-pitched whistling sound or feedback from hearing aids can annoy the ears and contribute to tension headaches. Talk to your audiologist if your device is producing sounds that are causing agitation. - The Acclimation Phase:
It is important to remember that Your brain requires a period of time to adapt to your hearing aid. While the brain re-learns how to process sounds during this period, some people might experience minor discomfort, including headaches.
Solutions for treating and preventing headaches
- Have your hearing aids expertly fitted to stop the formation of pressure points in your ear canal.
- Start at a low setting and incrementally raise the volume to avoid overtaxing your hearing system.
- Newer hearing aids have features for background noise reduction. Consult your audiologist about changing the settings or upgrading the device if yours doesn’t have this feature.
- Take Listening Breaks: To prevent sensory fatigue during the adjustment phase, allow your brain and ears a rest throughout the day.
- Stay in Contact with Your Audiologist: Make sure you see your audiologist regularly for fine-tuning, especially if your device is leading to discomfort.
When you need to contact a hearing care professional about your headaches
If the headaches continue beyond the initial adjustment period or are accompanied by other symptoms– like dizziness, ear pain, or nausea– it’s time to talk to an audiologist.
Continuing headaches might indicate that you have incorrect device settings or an unseen problem, such as a hearing aid malfunction or an ear infection.
A well-fitted hearing aid can improve your life
Though hearing aid headaches can be annoying, they’re usually temporary and can be easily fixed with expert support. Without causing discomfort, the right hearing aid, customized to your needs, can substantially boost your quality of life. Contact your audiologist if you run into any issues; your hearing health and comfort are essential! Your audiologist recognizes that pain from your hearing aid will likely cause you to stop wearing it.
Hearing aid-related headaches
Headaches from hearing aids are nothing to worry about– they are just a minor difficulty on the road to clearer hearing. This is a common experience, and it will probably be resolved with a few modifications. The appropriate care and adjustments will have you back on track, enjoying the little sounds of life, music, and conversations in short order!
Contact us for an appointment now if you are having headaches as a result of your hearing aids.
