Hearing aids can be transformative, offering better communication and enhanced quality of life. Yet, a few individuals suffer from headaches when they initially put on hearing aids. Although this might be aggravating, it is fortunate that these headaches are usually temporary and easy to manage with appropriate care and fine-tuning. Here, we’ll explore the causes of these headaches and the best ways to prevent or treat them!
The main reasons hearing aids cause headaches
- Poor Fitting:
If your hearing aid isn’t fitted properly, it can put pressure on sensitive parts of the ear, leading to discomfort and headaches. An improperly fitted device is probably the cause if you are getting headaches shortly after getting a new hearing aid. - A Rush of Sound:
Let your brain have time to adapt to the louder sound input. Initially, hearing sounds you couldn’t hear before– like background noise– can be too much and trigger headaches. Nevertheless, this effect is should resolve over time. - Volume Set Too Loud:
If the hearing aids are set too loud, the increased auditory input can cause sensory fatigue, resulting in headaches. Start with a lower volume and gradually raise it as you get used to your amplified hearing. - High-Pitched Sounds:
A high-pitched whistling sound or feedback from hearing aids can annoy the ears and cause tension headaches. Make sure to talk to your audiologist if your device emits any sound that leads to agitation. - The Acclimation Phase:
Don’t forget: Your brain must be given time to adapt to the use of your hearing aid. During this period, some people experience minor discomfort, including headaches, as the brain re-learns how to process sounds.
Solutions for preventing and managing headaches
- Ensure a Professional Fit: Be certain your hearing aids are professionally adjusted to avoid any pressure points inside your ear canal.
- Volume Adjustment is Key: begin at a comfortable setting and slowly increase the volume to avoid overtaxing your hearing system.
- Activate Noise Filters: Background noise reduction features are standard in newer hearing aids. If your device is missing this, ask your audiologist about modifying the settings or upgrading the device.
- Throughout the day, take breaks during the acclimation period to prevent the onset of sensory exhaustion.
- Keep in touch with your audiologist for fine-tuning, specifically if you experience discomfort from your device.
When you need to contact a hearing care professional about your headaches
Consult a hearing specialist if the headaches persist after the initial adaptation time or if other symptoms– like nausea, ear pain, or dizziness– are accompanying them.
Headaches that do not go away could suggest an underlying issue, for instance a hearing aid malfunction or an ear infection, or simply that your device settings are wrong.
A well-fitted hearing aid can enhance your life
Headaches resulting from hearing aids are typically temporary and straightforward to fix with professional assistance, even though they can be 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 contact your audiologist if you have any problems, as your hearing health and comfort are essential! In the end, your hearing specialist knows that if your hearing aid is creating pain, you’ll probably stop using it.
Temporary Headaches are Normal
Headaches from hearing aids are nothing to worry about– they are just a minor setback on the road to clearer hearing. The problem 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 small sounds of life with the correct care and adjustments!
Book an appointment today if you are dealing with headaches caused by your hearing aids.