Hearing aids are often life-changing, resulting in superior communication and a higher quality of life. However, some people experience headaches when they first begin using hearing aids. Fortunately, these headaches are usually fleeting and easy to manage with necessary adjustments and care, though they are annoying at first. Let’s dive into why these headaches happen and how to avoid or treat them!

Why hearing aids can cause headaches

• When the Fit is Wrong:
  An incorrectly fitted hearing aid can create pressure on the ear’s sensitive structures, resulting in headaches and discomfort. If headaches have started with your new hearing aid, it’s probable an improperly fitted device.
• Sound Overload:
  Your brain requires time to adjust to processing louder sounds. At first, hearing things you previously couldn’t– like background noise– can feel too much and cause headaches. Fortunately, this sensation typically resolves naturally before long.
• Excessive Volume Setting:
  Setting the volume too high can result in sensory fatigue from the high-volume input, thereby triggering headaches. Try beginning at a lower volume and slowly increasing over time as you get used to your new normal.
• High-Pitched Sounds:
  Tension headaches can be the result of a high-pitched whistling sound or feedback that is produced by your hearing aids and bothers your ears. Talk to your hearing specialist if your device is making sounds that are leading to agitation.
• Adjustment Period:
  Your brain needs time to adapt to using your new hearing aid, so keep that in mind. Headaches and other mild discomforts may be felt by some during this adjustment period, as the brain re-calibrates sound processing.

Solutions for preventing and managing headaches

• Get a Proper Fitting: Be certain your hearing aids are expertly fitted to avoid pressure points in your ear canal.
• Start at a comfortable setting and incrementally increase the volume to avoid overtaxing your hearing system.
• Utilize Noise Reduction: Modern hearing aids include features for background noise reduction. Consult your audiologist about changing the settings or upgrading the device if yours doesn’t have this feature.
• Take Breaks: During the adjustment period, give your ears and brain some rest throughout the day to avoid sensory fatigue.
• Maintain Regular Contact: Keep in touch with your audiologist for fine-tuning, especially if you experience discomfort from your device.

When you need to contact a hearing care specialist about your headaches

Consult a hearing specialist if the headaches last after the initial adjustment time or if other symptoms– such as nausea, ear pain, or dizziness– are also present.

Persistent headaches might indicate that your device settings are off or that there’s an underlying issue, such as an ear infection or hearing aid malfunction.

A well-fitted hearing aid can improve your life

While headaches caused by hearing aids can be annoying, they are usually temporary and easy to resolve with professional assistance. Correctly adjusted to your needs, the ideal hearing aid can vastly improve your life without creating discomfort. Should any issues occur, be sure to contact your audiologist– your hearing health and comfort are essential! In the end, your hearing specialist knows that if your hearing aid is causing you pain, you’ll likely stop wearing it.

Hearing aid-assosiated headaches

Don’t panic if you’re getting headaches from your hearing aids– they are just a minor hurdle on the path to improved hearing. This is a common experience, and it’s likely to be resolved with minor adjustments. The appropriate care and adjustments will have you back on track, enjoying the small sounds of life, music, and conversations in short order!

Schedule an appointment today if you are experiencing hearing-aid related headaches.