With their ability to boost communication and quality of life, hearing aids are a huge asset. However, some individuals experience headaches when they first begin using hearing aids. Luckily, these headaches are usually fleeting and easy to manage with the right adjustments and care, even if they are frustrating at first. We will next explore the causes for these headaches and how to resolve them.
Prevalent causes of headaches from hearing aids
- Improper Fit:
An improperly adjusted hearing aid can cause pressure on the ear’s delicate structures, resulting in headaches and discomfort. If you just purchased a new hearing aid and you’re experiencing headaches, a poorly fitted device is likely to blame. - Sound Overload:
The brain needs a period to become accustomed to the amplified volume of sounds it is processing. Initially, hearing things you previously missed– like background noise– can feel overwhelming and cause headaches. However, this phenomenon should self-correct before long. - Volume Set Too Loud:
When hearing aids are too loud, the high level of sound input can fatigue your auditory system, leading to headaches. Try beginning at a lower volume and slowly increasing over time as you get used to your new normal. - Feedback and Whistling:
A high-pitched whistling sound or feedback from hearing aids can irritate the ears and cause tension headaches. In case your device is making irritating sounds, reach out to your hearing specialist. - The Acclimation Phase:
Your brain needs time to adapt to using your new hearing aid, so keep that in mind. While the brain re-learns how to process sounds during this phase, some individuals may experience slight discomfort, including headaches.
Solutions for treating and preventing headaches
- Get a Proper Fitting: Be certain your hearing aids are professionally fitted to avoid pressure points in your ear canal.
- begin at a comfortable setting and slowly increase the volume to keep from overtaxing your hearing system.
- Modern hearing aids include features for background noise reduction. Consult your audiologist about changing the settings or upgrading the device if yours lacks this capability.
- Take Breaks: During the adjustment period, give your ears and brain some rest throughout the day to avoid sensory exhaustion.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Maintain regular check-ups with your hearing specialist for fine-tuning, especially if you are experiencing discomfort.
Recognizing when to reah out to your hearing specialist for headaches
It’s time to consult a hearing specialist if the headaches continue past the first adjustment phase or if they are coupled to additional symptoms, such as ear pain, dizziness, or nausea.
Persistent headaches may indicate that your device settings are wrong or that there’s an underlying problem, including an ear infection or hearing aid malfunction.
The advantages of a correctly adjusted hearing aid
Headaches caused by hearing aids are usually temporary and easy to resolve with expert assistance, even though they can be frustrating. The correct hearing aid, correctly adjusted to fit your needs, can significantly enhance your quality of life without causing discomfort. If you experience any problems, reach out to your audiologist– your comfort and hearing health matter! In the end, your hearing specialist knows that if your hearing aid is causing you pain, you’ll likely stop using it.
A Common Side Effects
If you’re experiencing headaches from hearing aids, don’t worry– they’re just a minor obstacle to better hearing. This is a common experience, and it will probably be resolved with minor modifications. The proper care and fine-tuning will enable you to soon return to enjoying conversations, music, and the little sounds of life.
If you are suffering from headaches caused by your hearing aid, book an appointment now.