Providing improved communication and an enhanced quality of life, hearing aids can truly be life-changing. Headaches can arise for some users during the first period of using hearing aids. Even though this might be frustrating, it is a good thing that these headaches are usually temporary and simple to handle with appropriate care and fine-tuning. We will next explore the causes for these headaches and how to resolve them.
The main reasons hearing aids cause headaches
- When the Fit is Wrong:
If your hearing aid isn’t fitted correctly, it can put pressure on delicate parts of the ear, leading to discomfort and headaches. An improperly fitted device is most likely the cause if you are experiencing headaches shortly after getting a new hearing aid. - A Rush of Sound:
It takes time for your brain to get used to processing the louder sound signals. Initially, hearing sounds you didn’t hear before– like background noise– can be overwhelming and induce headaches. Nevertheless, this effect is expected to disappear before long. - Excessive Volume Setting:
Headaches might occur if the volume setting is too high, as the increased sound input can cause strain in the auditory system. Begin with a lower volume and slowly raise it as you get used to your amplified hearing. - Feedback and Whistling:
Tension headaches can be the result of a high-pitched whistling sound or feedback that is produced by your hearing aids and bothers your ears. If your device is making irritating sounds, talk to your audiologist. - Time to Adapt:
Your brain needs time to become accustomed to using your new hearing aid, so keep that in mind. During this period, some people experience slight discomfort, including headaches, as the brain re-learns how to process sounds.
Solutions for treating and preventing headaches
- Seek a Proper Fitting: Have your hearing aids expertly fitted to stop the formation of pressure points in your ear canal.
- Begin at a comfortable volume and slowly increase it to prevent overtaxing your auditory system.
- Activate Noise Filters: Background noise reduction features are standard in newer hearing aids. If your device is without this, ask your audiologist about adjusting the settings or upgrading the device.
- Rest Your Ears and Brain: Throughout the day, take breaks during the acclimation period to prevent the onset of sensory exhaustion.
- Regular Check-ups: Stay in touch with your audiologist for fine-tuning adjustments, particularly if your device is causing discomfort.
Recognizing when to contact your audiologist for headaches
See an audiologist if the headaches last after the initial adaptation time or if other symptoms– such as nausea, ear pain, or dizziness– are accompanying them.
An underlying problem, such as a hearing aid malfunction or an ear infection, or wrong device settings may be signaled by headaches that persist.
How the correct hearing aid can enhance your life
Headaches resulting from hearing aids are typically temporary and easy to resolve with expert assistance, even though they can be annoying. Without leading to discomfort, the correct hearing aid, properly adjusted to your needs, can substantially improve your quality of life. If you experience any issues, reach out to your audiologist– your comfort and hearing health are important! Your audiologist understands that pain from your hearing aid is likely to make you stop wearing it.
Temporary Headaches are Normal
If you’re experiencing headaches from hearing aids, don’t worry– they’re just a minor obstacle to better hearing. Your experience is common, and some simple tweaks can most likely resolve the issue. You will soon be back to enjoying music, conversations, and the subtle sounds of life with the right care and adjustments!
Contact us for an appointment now if you are experiencing headaches as a result of your hearing aids.