With their ability to improve communication and quality of life, hearing aids are a major asset. Headaches can occur for some users during the first period of using hearing aids. Fortunately, these headaches are generally fleeting and straightforward to manage with necessary adjustments and care, though they are annoying at first. Here, we’ll investigate the causes of these headaches and the best ways to address them!
Common causes of headaches from hearing aids
- When the Fit is Wrong:
Headaches and discomfort can arise if an ill-fitting hearing aid puts pressure on delicate areas of your ear. If headaches have started with your new hearing aid, it’s probable a poorly fitted device. - Sound Overload:
The brain needs a period to adapt to the increased volume of sounds it is processing. Things you didn’t hear before– like ambient noise– can feel overwhelming and bring on a headache when you first hear them. The good news is that this phenomenon is typically temporary and should correct itself before long. - Excessive Volume Setting:
Headaches may occur if the volume setting is too loud, as the extra sound input can cause fatigue in the auditory system. Try beginning at a lower volume and gradually raising over time as you acclimatize to your new level of hearing. - Feedback and Whistling:
If your hearing aids produce feedback or a high-pitched whistle, it can lead to irritation in the ears and trigger tension headaches. Talk to your hearing specialist if your device is generating sounds that are leading to agitation. - The Acclimation Phase:
Keep in mind: Your brain requires a period of time to adjust to your hearing aid. The brain is in the process of re-learning how to process sounds during this adjustment phase, which can cause minor discomfort, including headaches.
Tips to manage and avoid headaches
- 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 overwhelming your hearing system.
- Newer hearing aids include features for background noise reduction. Consult your audiologist about changing the settings or getting a newer device if yours lacks this feature.
- Allow your brain and ears time to rest during the adjustment period to avoid sensory fatigue.
- Ensure you see your audiologist often for fine-tuning, particularly if your device is causing discomfort.
When you should consult a hearing care specialist about your headaches
If the headaches continue beyond the initial adjustment period or are accompanied by other symptoms– like dizziness, ear pain, or nausea– it’s time to talk to a hearing specialist.
Headaches that persist could indicate an unseen issue, for instance a hearing aid malfunction or an ear infection, or simply that your device settings are incorrect.
A well-fitted hearing aid can enhance your life
While hearing aid headaches can be bothersome, they’re usually temporary and are easily fixed with professional support. Correctly fitted to your needs, the right hearing aid can vastly improve your life without creating discomfort. If you experience any problems, contact your audiologist– your comfort and hearing health matter! At the end of the day, if your hearing aid is causing you pain, your audiologist knows you’re likely to stop wearing it.
Hearing aid-related headaches
Don’t panic if you’re experiencing headaches from your hearing aids– they are just a minor obstacle on the path to improved hearing. Your experience is common, and some simple adjustments can probably fix the issue. The right care and adjustments will get you back on track, enjoying the small sounds of life, music, and conversations quickly!
Schedule an appointment today if you are experiencing headaches due to your hearing aids.