Hearing aids can be transformative, offering better communication and improved quality of life. Yet, a few people get headaches when they initially begin wearing hearing aids. Although this may be aggravating, it is a good thing that these headaches are usually temporary and simple 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!
Why hearing aids can cause headaches
- Poor Fitting:
Headaches and discomfort can arise if an ill-fitting hearing aid puts pressure on sensitive areas of your ear. If headaches have started with your new hearing aid, it’s probable an improperly fitted device. - Overwhelmed by Sound:
The brain requires a period to adapt to the amplified volume of sounds it is processing. The initial sensation of hearing previously missed sounds, like background noise, can be overwhelming and lead to headaches. Luckily, this sensation usually resolves naturally in a short time. - High Volume Settings:
Setting the volume too loud can result in auditory fatigue from the high-volume input, thereby causing headaches. You should try to start with a lower volume and then slowly increase it as you adjust to the new auditory input. - High-Pitched Sounds:
When your hearing aids produce feedback or a high-pitched whistle, it can lead to irritation in the ears and trigger tension headaches. In case your device is making irritating sounds, talk to your hearing specialist. - The Acclimation Phase:
Don’t forget: Your brain must be given time to acclimate to the use of your hearing aid. While the brain re-learns how to process sounds during this phase, some individuals might feel slight discomfort, including headaches.
Tips to prevent and treat headaches
- Seek a Proper Fitting: Have your hearing aids expertly fitted to stop the formation of pressure points in your ear canal.
- Start at a comfortable setting and slowly increase the volume to keep from overtaxing your hearing system.
- Use Noise Filters: Modern hearing aids come with background noise reduction features. If your device doesn’t include this, ask your audiologist about adjusting or upgrading the settings.
- Scheduled Breaks: Allow your brain and ears a break during the adaptation period to avoid sensory fatigue.
- Maintain regular check-ups with your hearing specialist for fine-tuning, especially if you are experiencing discomfort.
When you need to contact a hearing care specialist about your headaches
Consult an audiologist if the headaches persist after the initial adjustment time or if other symptoms– like nausea, ear pain, or dizziness– are also present.
Continuing headaches might indicate that you have wrong device settings or an unseen problem, including a hearing aid malfunction or an ear infection.
The advantages of a correctly adjusted hearing aid
Though hearing aid headaches can be annoying, they are generally temporary and are easily fixed with expert support. A properly fitted hearing aid that meets your individual needs can significantly improve your quality of life without resulting in any discomfort. Be sure to contact your audiologist if you have any issues, as your hearing health and comfort matter! Your audiologist understands that pain from your hearing aid will likely cause you to stop wearing it.
Hearing aid-related headaches
If you’re experiencing headaches from hearing aids, don’t worry– they’re just a minor obstacle to better hearing. What you’re going through is common, and can likely be resolved with a few adjustments. You will soon be back to enjoying music, conversations, and the subtle sounds of life with the right care and adjustments!
If you are experiencing headaches caused by your hearing aid, book an appointment today.