Providing better communication and an improved quality of life, hearing aids are often transformative. But, a few individuals suffer from headaches when they initially put on hearing aids. Even though this may be frustrating, it is fortunate that these headaches are generally temporary and easy to handle with proper care and fine-tuning. Read why these headaches happen and what steps you can take to prevent or treat them!
Why hearing aids can cause headaches
- Poor Fitting:
If your hearing aid isn’t fitted correctly, it can press against sensitive parts of the ear, resulting in discomfort and headaches. An improperly fitted device is most likely the cause if you are getting headaches shortly after getting a new hearing aid. - Sound Overload:
Allow your brain time to adapt to the amplified sound input. Things you didn’t hear before– like ambient noise– can feel overwhelming and cause a headache when you first hear them. The good news is that this phenomenon is typically temporary and should resolve before long. - Volume Set Too Loud:
Headaches might result if the volume setting is too high, as the extra sound input can cause fatigue in the auditory system. It’s best to begin at a lower volume and gradually increase it as you adjust to your new normal. - Unwanted Noise and Feedback:
When your hearing aids produce feedback or a high-pitched whistle, it can lead to irritation in the ears and trigger tension headaches. Make sure to talk to your hearing specialist if your device emits any sound that causes agitation. - Time to Adapt:
Remember: Your brain needs time to adapt to using your hearing aid. The brain will be re-learning how to process sounds during this adjustment phase, which can lead to slight discomfort, including headaches.
How to manage and prevent headaches
- A Proper Fitting is Key: Be sure your hearing aids are professionally fitted to eliminate any pressure points inside your ear canal.
- Start at a comfortable setting and slowly raise the volume to keep from overwhelming your hearing system.
- Activate Noise Filters: Background noise reduction features are standard in newer hearing aids. If your device is without this, speak with your audiologist about modifying the settings or upgrading the device.
- Take Breaks: During the adjustment period, allow your ears and brain some rest throughout the day to prevent sensory fatigue.
- Make sure you visit your audiologist often for fine-tuning, particularly if your device is leading to discomfort.
When to see a audiologist for your headaches
If the headaches persist beyond the initial adaptation period or are accompanied by other symptoms– like dizziness, ear pain, or nausea– it’s time to see an audiologist.
An underlying problem, such as a hearing aid malfunction or an ear infection, or wrong device settings may be suggested by headaches that continue.
How the correct hearing aid can enhance your life
With professional help, headaches from hearing aids are usually temporary and simple to fix, in spite of being annoying. A correctly fitted hearing aid that meets your individual needs can dramatically improve your quality of life without resulting in any discomfort. Should any problems occur, be sure to contact your audiologist– your hearing health and comfort are important! Your audiologist understands that pain from your hearing aid will likely make you stop wearing it.
A Common Side Effects
If you’re dealing with headaches from hearing aids, don’t worry– they’re just a bump in the road to better hearing. What you’re going through is common, and can most likely be resolved with a few modifications. With the correct care and adjustments, you’ll be back on track, enjoying conversations, music, and the little sounds of life in no time!
If you are suffering from headaches caused by your hearing aid, book an appointment today.