Hearing aids can be game-changing, providing better communication and enhanced quality of life. But, a few people suffer from headaches when they initially put on hearing aids. Luckily, these headaches are generally fleeting and simple to manage with necessary adjustments and care, even if they are annoying at first. Here, we’ll explore the causes of these headaches and the best ways to address them!
Common causes of headaches from hearing aids
- Poor Fitting:
Should your hearing aid lack a correct fit, it may exert pressure on vulnerable areas of the ear, which may lead to headaches and general discomfort. If you just got 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 too much and trigger headaches. The good news is that this reaction is usually temporary and should resolve soon. - High Volume Settings:
If the hearing aids are adjusted too loud, the increased auditory input can cause sensory fatigue, causing headaches. You should try to start with a lower volume and then slowly raise it as you get used to the new auditory input. - Unwanted Noise and Feedback:
If your hearing aids produce feedback or a high-pitched whistle, it can cause irritation in the ears and trigger tension headaches. In case your device is making irritating sounds, reach out to your audiologist. - Adjustment Period:
Your brain needs time to become accustomed to using your new hearing aid, so keep that in mind. Headaches and other minor discomforts may be felt by some during this adjustment period, as the brain re-calibrates sound processing.
How to treat and avoid headaches
- Get a Correct Fitting: Be certain your hearing aids are professionally fitted to eliminate pressure points in your ear canal.
- Volume Adjustment is Key: Start at a low setting and incrementally increase the volume to keep from overtaxing your hearing system.
- Use Noise Filters: Modern hearing aids usually have background noise reduction capabilities. If your device doesn’t include this, ask your audiologist about upgrading or adjusting the settings.
- Scheduled Breaks: Allow your brain and ears a break during the adaptation period to prevent sensory fatigue.
- Stay in Contact with Your Audiologist: Ensure you see your audiologist often for fine-tuning, especially if your device is leading to discomfort.
Recognizing when to reah out to your audiologist for headaches
It’s time to see a hearing specialist if the headaches persist after the initial adjustment or if they are accompanied by other symptoms, for example nausea, ear pain, or dizziness.
Persistent headaches may signal that you have wrong device settings or an unseen issue, such as a hearing aid malfunction or an ear infection.
A well-fitted hearing aid can improve your life
Headaches caused by hearing aids are usually temporary and easy to resolve with professional assistance, though they can be frustrating. Properly adjusted to your needs, the ideal hearing aid can substantially improve your life without causing discomfort. If you experience any problems, contact your audiologist– your comfort and hearing health matter! In the end, your hearing specialist knows that if your hearing aid is creating pain, you’ll probably stop wearing it.
Temporary Headaches are Normal
Headaches resulting from hearing aids are no cause for worry– think of them as a minor obstacle toward better hearing. The problem you’re experiencing is common and probably requires only some simple tweaks to be resolved. With the correct care and adjustments, you’ll be back on track, enjoying conversations, music, and the subtle sounds of life in no time!
Schedule an appointment today if you are suffering from hearing-aid related headaches.