Hearing aids are often transformative, leading to superior communication and a higher quality of life. When first starting to use them, some users experience headaches. Luckily, despite the annoyance, these headaches are typically short-lived and can be easily resolved with proper adjustments and care. Let’s explore why these headaches happen and how to prevent or treat them!

Prevalent causes of headaches from hearing aids

• When the Fit is Wrong:
  Should your hearing aid lack a proper fit, it might exert pressure on sensitive areas of the ear, which can cause headaches and general discomfort. When headaches occur soon after receiving a new hearing aid, the problem is often an ill-fitting device.
• Overwhelmed by Sound:
  The brain needs a period to adapt to the amplified volume of sounds it is processing. At first, hearing things you previously couldn’t– like background noise– can feel excessive and induce headaches. Nevertheless, this effect is expected to disappear before long.
• Volume Set Too Loud:
  Headaches may occur if the volume setting is too loud, as the extra sound input can cause strain in the auditory system. It’s best to start at a lower volume and slowly increase it as you become used to your new normal.
• High-Pitched Sounds:
  When your hearing aids emit feedback or a high-pitched whistle, it can lead to irritation in the ears and result in tension headaches. Contact your audiologist if your device is creating sounds that lead to agitation or annoyance.
• Time to Adapt:
  Don’t forget: Your brain must be given time to acclimate 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.

How to treat and avoid headaches

• Ensure a Professional Fit: Be sure your hearing aids are expertly adjusted to avoid any pressure points inside your ear canal.
• Adjust Volume Gradually: Begin with a comfortable volume level and slowly increase it to prevent taxing your auditory system.
• Background noise reduction capabilities are common in newer hearing aids. If your device is without this, speak with your audiologist about modifying the settings or replacing the device.
• Scheduled Breaks: Allow your brain and ears a break during the adjustment period to avoid sensory fatigue.
• Maintain regular check-ups with your audiologist for fine-tuning, especially if you are experiencing discomfort.

When you should contact a hearing care professional about your headaches

It’s time to seek advise from a hearing specialist if the headaches do not stop after the initial adaptation or if they are accompanied by other symptoms, for example nausea, ear pain, or dizziness.

Continuing headaches may signal that you have incorrect device settings or an underlying issue, including a hearing aid malfunction or an ear infection.

The advantages of a correctly adjusted hearing aid

Headaches caused by hearing aids are typically temporary and straightforward to fix with expert assistance, even though they can be annoying. The correct hearing aid, correctly adjusted to fit your needs, can significantly enhance your quality of life without causing discomfort. Make sure to call your audiologist if you have any issues, as your hearing health and comfort matter! The truth is, your hearing specialist is aware that if your hearing aid is painful, you will probably cease using it.

Temporary Headaches are Normal

If you’re dealing with headaches from hearing aids, don’t worry– they’re just a minor obstacle to better hearing. The problem you’re experiencing is common and probably requires only a few simple tweaks to be resolved. The right care and fine-tuning will enable you to soon get back to enjoying discussions, music, and the little sounds of life.

Contact us for an appointment today if you are having headaches as a result of your hearing aids.