With their ability to improve communication and quality of life, hearing aids are a significant asset. However, some individuals experience headaches when they first begin using hearing aids. Fortunately, despite the annoyance, these headaches are often short-lived and are easily relieved with correct adjustments and care. Here, we’ll investigate the causes of these headaches and the best ways to address them!
Why hearing aids can lead to headaches
- Improper Fit:
Headaches and discomfort can result if an ill-fitting hearing aid puts pressure on sensitive areas of your ear. If you just purchased a new hearing aid and you’re experiencing headaches, an improperly sized device is most likely to blame. - A Rush of Sound:
Allow your brain time to adapt to the amplified sound input. Sounds 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 reaction is usually temporary and should resolve before long. - Volume Set Too Loud:
Headaches may result if the volume setting is too high, as the extra sound input can cause fatigue in the auditory system. You should attempt to begin with a lower volume and then incrementally raise it as you adjust to the changed auditory input. - Unwanted Noise and Feedback:
Hearing aids that produce feedback or a high-pitched whistling sound can bother the ears and lead to tension headaches. In case your device is producing irritating sounds, reach out to your audiologist. - Adjustment Period:
Your brain needs time to adapt to using your new hearing aid, so keep that in mind. During this period, some people experience minor discomfort, including headaches, as the brain recalibrates how to process sounds.
How to manage and prevent headaches
- A Proper Fitting is Key: Be sure your hearing aids are expertly adjusted to avoid any pressure points inside your ear canal.
- Start at a low volume and incrementally raise it to prevent overtaxing your auditory system.
- Utilize Noise Filters: Modern hearing aids come with background noise reduction capabilities. If your device doesn’t include this, ask your audiologist about upgrading or adjusting the settings.
- Take Listening Breaks: To prevent sensory exhaustion during the adjustment phase, allow your brain and ears a rest throughout the day.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Maintain scheduled check-ups with your hearing specialist for fine-tuning, especially if you are experiencing discomfort.
When you need to consult a hearing care professional about your headaches
If the headaches persist beyond the initial adaptation period or are joined by other symptoms– such as dizziness, ear pain, or nausea– it’s time to talk to an audiologist.
Persistent headaches might signal that your device settings are wrong or that there’s an underlying issue, such as an ear infection or hearing aid malfunction.
The benefits of a correctly adjusted hearing aid
While headaches caused by hearing aids can be annoying, they are typically temporary and easy to manage with professional help. A correctly fitted hearing aid that meets your specific needs can significantly improve your quality of life without resulting in any discomfort. If any problems arise, be sure to contact your audiologist– your hearing health and comfort are essential! At the end of the day, if your hearing aid is causing you pain, your audiologist knows you’re prone to stop wearing it.
Hearing aid-assosiated headaches
Headaches caused by hearing aids are common– think of them as a minor obstacle toward better hearing. This is a common experience, and it’s likely to be resolved with minor modifications. You will soon be back to enjoying music, conversations, and the small sounds of life with the right care and adjustments!
Schedule an appointment today if you are suffering from headaches related to your hearing aids.