Giving better communication and a superior quality of life, hearing aids can truly be life-changing. Headaches can arise for some users during the initial period of using hearing aids. While this can be frustrating, the good news is that these headaches are typically short lived and easy to manage with the right care and adjustments. Here, we’ll investigate the causes of these headaches and the best ways to address them!
Why hearing aids can cause headaches
- When the Fit is Wrong:
Headaches and discomfort can result if an ill-fitting hearing aid presses on sensitive areas of your ear. If you just purchased a new hearing aid and you’re experiencing headaches, a poorly fitted device is probably to blame. - Sound Overload:
The brain requires a period to become accustomed to the amplified volume of sounds it is processing. Initially, hearing sounds you couldn’t hear before– like background noise– can be overwhelming and trigger headaches. Nevertheless, this effect is should resolve over time. - Excessive Volume Setting:
When hearing aids are too loud, the increased sound input can tire your auditory system, which can cause headaches. Try starting out at a lower volume and slowly increasing over time as you acclimatize to your new level of hearing. - High-Pitched Sounds:
Tension headaches can be caused by 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. - The Acclimation Phase:
Don’t forget: Your brain needs time to acclimate to the use of your hearing aid. While the brain re-learns how to process sounds during this phase, some people may experience slight discomfort, such as headaches.
Tips to prevent and treat headaches
- Have your hearing aids expertly fitted to prevent the formation of pressure points in your ear canal.
- Gradually Adjust the Volume: Start at a low volume and slowly increase it to avoid overtaxing your auditory system.
- Utilize Noise Filters: Contemporary hearing aids come with background noise reduction features. If your device doesn’t include this, ask your audiologist about upgrading or adjusting the settings.
- Take Listening Breaks: To prevent sensory exhaustion during the adjustment phase, allow your brain and ears a rest throughout the day.
- Maintain regular check-ups with your audiologist for fine-tuning, especially if you are feeling discomfort.
Knowing when to reah out to your hearing specialist for headaches
You should see a hearing specialist if the headaches continue past the first adjustment period or if they are accompanied by other symptoms, including ear pain, dizziness, or nausea.
An underlying issue, such as a hearing aid malfunction or an ear infection, or wrong device settings might be signaled by headaches that persist.
A well-fitted hearing aid can improve your life
Headaches resulting from hearing aids are usually temporary and easy to fix with professional help, though they can be frustrating. Properly adjusted to your needs, the right hearing aid can vastly enhance your life without causing discomfort. Make sure to call your audiologist if you have any problems, as your hearing health and comfort matter! The reality is, your hearing specialist knows that if your hearing aid is causing you pain, you will probably cease wearing it.
Hearing aid-assosiated headaches
Headaches from hearing aids are common– they are just a minor difficulty on the road to clearer hearing. What you’re going through is common, and can probably be resolved with a few tweaks. The proper care and fine-tuning will allow you to quickly get back to enjoying conversations, music, and the little sounds of life.
Book an appointment today if you are suffering from headaches related to your hearing aids.