Providing better communication and an enhanced quality of life, hearing aids are usually life-altering. Yet, a few people suffer from headaches when they initially begin wearing hearing aids. Even though this might be aggravating, it is fortunate that these headaches are usually temporary and easy to manage with appropriate care and fine-tuning. Let’s find out why these headaches develop and what steps you can take to prevent or treat them!
The main reasons hearing aids lead to headaches
- When the Fit is Wrong:
Should your hearing aid lack a correct fit, it might put pressure on sensitive areas of the ear, which may lead to headaches and general discomfort. When headaches occur soon after getting a new hearing aid, the issue is often a poorly fitted device. - Sound Overload:
Let your brain have time to adapt to the amplified sound input. The initial sensation of hearing previously missed sounds, like background noise, can be overwhelming and trigger headaches. Fortunately, this sensation typically resolves on its own before long. - Volume Set Too Loud:
When hearing aids are too loud, the increased sound input can tire your auditory system, which can cause headaches. You should try to start with a lower volume and then incrementally raise it as you get used to the new auditory input. - Feedback and Whistling:
If your hearing aids produce feedback or a high-pitched whistle, it can lead to irritation in the ears and result in tension headaches. Contact your hearing specialist if your device is making sounds that lead to agitation or annoyance. - The Acclimation Phase:
Remember: Your brain needs time to adapt to the use of your hearing aid. As the brain re-learns how to process sounds during this period, some people may experience slight discomfort, such as headaches.
How to treat and avoid headaches
- Get a Correct Fitting: Be certain your hearing aids are expertly fitted to eliminate pressure points in your ear canal.
- Volume Adjustment is Key: begin at a comfortable setting and incrementally raise the volume to avoid overtaxing your hearing system.
- Activate Noise Filters: Background noise reduction features are standard in newer hearing aids. If your device is missing this, ask your audiologist about modifying the settings or replacing the device.
- To prevent sensory fatigue during the adjustment phase, allow your brain and ears a rest throughout the day.
- Regular Check-ups: Stay in contact with your audiologist for fine-tuning adjustments, particularly if your device is causing discomfort.
When to consult a hearing specialist for your headaches
It’s time to see a hearing specialist if the headaches persist past the first adjustment phase or if they are paired with other symptoms, such as ear pain, dizziness, or nausea.
An underlying issue, such as a hearing aid malfunction or an ear infection, or wrong device settings may be suggested by headaches that persist.
How the right hearing aid can enhance your life
Headaches resulting from hearing aids are usually temporary and straightforward to fix with professional help, 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. Contact your audiologist if you experience any issues; your hearing health and comfort are essential! Your audiologist recognizes that pain from your hearing aid is likely to make you stop wearing it.
Hearing aid-related headaches
Do not worry if you’re getting headaches from your hearing aids– they are just a small hurdle on the path to improved hearing. Your experience is common, and some simple tweaks can likely resolve the issue. The right care and fine-tuning will enable you to soon return to enjoying conversations, music, and the subtle sounds of life.
If you are suffering from headaches related to your hearing aid, book an appointment today.