Hearing aids can be life-changing, offering better communication and superior quality of life. 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 the right adjustments and care, though they are frustrating at first. Let’s find out why these headaches happen and what measures you can take to solve them!
Common causes of headaches from hearing aids
- Poor Fitting: An incorrectly fitted hearing aid can create pressure on the ear’s sensitive structures, causing headaches and discomfort. If you just purchased a new hearing aid and you’re experiencing headaches, an ill-fitting device is most likely to blame.
- A Rush of Sound: It takes time for your brain to get used to processing the louder sound signals. Things you couldn’t hear before– like ambient noise– can feel overwhelming and cause a headache when you first hear them. Fortunately, this sensation typically resolves on its own before long.
- High Volume Settings: If the hearing aids are adjusted too loud, the excessive auditory input can cause sensory fatigue, causing headaches. You should attempt to begin with a lower volume and then incrementally increase it as you adjust to the new auditory input.
- Feedback and Whistling: A high-pitched whistling sound or feedback from hearing aids can annoy the ears and contribute to tension headaches. Be sure to talk to your hearing specialist if your device emits any sound that causes agitation.
- The Acclimation Phase: Your brain needs time to adapt to using your new hearing aid, so keep that in mind. While the brain recalibrates how to process sounds during this phase, some people might feel minor discomfort, including headaches.
Tips to manage and avoid headaches
- Get a Correct Fitting: Make sure your hearing aids are professionally fitted to avoid pressure points in your ear canal.
- Volume Adjustment is Key: Start at a comfortable setting and slowly raise the volume to keep from overtaxing your hearing system.
- Use Noise Filters: Contemporary hearing aids come with background noise reduction capabilities. If your device doesn’t include this, ask your audiologist about adjusting or upgrading the settings.
- Take Breaks: During the adjustment period, allow your ears and brain some rest throughout the day to avoid sensory fatigue.
- Maintain regular check-ups with your audiologist for fine-tuning, particularly if you are experiencing discomfort.
When to consult a hearing specialist for 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 see an audiologist.
Headaches that do not go away could indicate an underlying issue, for instance a hearing aid malfunction or an ear infection, or simply that your device settings are wrong.
How the right hearing aid can improve your life
Though hearing aid headaches can be bothersome, they’re usually temporary and can be easily fixed with expert support. Correctly fitted to your needs, the ideal hearing aid can substantially enhance your life without causing discomfort. If you experience any problems, reach out to your audiologist– your comfort and hearing health are important! Your audiologist understands that pain from your hearing aid will likely cause you to stop wearing it.
A Common Side Effects
Headaches as a result of hearing aids are nothing to worry about– they are just a minor setback on the road to clearer hearing. The issue you’re experiencing is common and probably requires only a few simple adjustments to be resolved. You will soon be back to enjoying music, conversations, and the subtle sounds of life with the correct care and adjustments!
If you are experiencing headaches caused by your hearing aid, schedule an appointment now.