With their ability to boost communication and quality of life, hearing aids are a huge benefit. However, some individuals experience headaches when they first start using hearing aids. Luckily, these headaches are usually fleeting and straightforward to manage with the right adjustments and care, though they are frustrating at first. We will next explore the causes for these headaches and how to prevent or treat them.

The main reasons hearing aids result in headaches

• Improper Fit:
  An improperly adjusted hearing aid can create pressure on the ear’s sensitive structures, causing headaches and discomfort. If headaches occur soon after receiving a new hearing aid, the problem is often an ill-fitting device.
• Overwhelmed by Sound:
  The brain requires a period to become accustomed to the increased volume of sounds it is processing. Things you couldn’t hear before– like ambient noise– can feel overwhelming and bring on a headache when you first hear them. However, this phenomenon should resolve on its own before long.
• High Volume Settings:
  When hearing aids are too loud, the increased sound input can tire your auditory system, which can cause headaches. You should attempt to start with a lower volume and then slowly increase it as you get used to the changed auditory input.
• High-Pitched Sounds:
  Hearing aids that generate feedback or a high-pitched whistling sound can irritate the ears and cause tension headaches. Talk to your hearing specialist if your device is making sounds that are causing agitation.
• Adjustment Period:
  Don’t forget: Your brain must be given time to adapt to the use of your hearing aid. During this period, some individuals experience mild discomfort, including headaches, as the brain re-learns how to process sounds.

Solutions for preventing and managing headaches

• Ensure a Professional Fit: Be sure your hearing aids are professionally fitted to eliminate any pressure points inside your ear canal.
• Begin at a comfortable volume and incrementally increase it to prevent overwhelming your auditory system.
• Background noise reduction features are standard in modern hearing aids. If your device is without this, ask your audiologist about adjusting the settings or replacing the device.
• To avoid sensory fatigue during the adjustment period, give your brain and ears a rest periodically.
• Maintain scheduled check-ups with your hearing specialist for fine-tuning, particularly if you are feeling discomfort.

Recognizing when to reah out to your audiologist for headaches

If the headaches continue 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.

Continuing headaches might signal that you have wrong device settings or an underlying problem, including a hearing aid malfunction or an ear infection.

The benefits of a properly adjusted hearing aid

Though hearing aid headaches can be annoying, they are generally temporary and can be easily fixed with expert support. Without leading to discomfort, the correct hearing aid, customized to your needs, can significantly improve your quality of life. If any issues arise, make sure to contact your audiologist– your hearing health and comfort are important! Your audiologist recognizes that pain from your hearing aid is likely to cause you to stop wearing it.

Hearing aid-related headaches

Headaches resulting from hearing aids are common– think of them as a minor setback toward better hearing. Your experience is common, and some simple modifications can likely resolve the issue. With the right care and adjustments, you’ll be back on track, enjoying conversations, music, and the little sounds of life in no time!

Book an appointment today if you are dealing with headaches related to your hearing aids.