Hearing aids are often life-changing, leading to better communication and a higher quality of life. When first beginning to use them, some users report headaches. Luckily, these headaches are generally fleeting and straightforward to manage with the right adjustments and care, though they are frustrating at first. Here, we’ll investigate the causes of these headaches and the best ways to prevent or treat them!

Common causes of headaches from hearing aids

• Improper Fit:
  If your hearing aid isn’t adjusted properly, it can press against sensitive parts of the ear, resulting in pain and headaches. When headaches occur soon after getting a new hearing aid, the problem is often an ill-fitting device.
• Overwhelmed by Sound:
  It takes time for your brain to get used to processing the amplified sound signals. Sounds you didn’t hear before– like ambient noise– can feel intense and cause a headache when you first hear them. However, this phenomenon should self-correct before long.
• High Volume Settings:
  Setting the volume too high can lead to auditory fatigue from the high-volume input, thereby causing headaches. Start with a lower volume and gradually increase it as you get used to your new normal.
• High-Pitched Sounds:
  A high-pitched whistling sound or feedback from hearing aids can annoy the ears and cause tension headaches. Talk to your audiologist if your device is producing sounds that are causing agitation.
• Adjustment Period:
  Remember: Your brain needs time to acclimatize to using your hearing aid. As the brain recalibrates how to process sounds during this phase, some people may experience minor discomfort, including headaches.

How to manage and avoid headaches

• Ensure a Professional Fit: Be sure your hearing aids are expertly adjusted to avoid any pressure points inside your ear canal.
• Volume Adjustment is Key: Start at a comfortable setting and slowly increase the volume to keep from overwhelming your hearing system.
• Background noise reduction features are standard in modern hearing aids. If your device is missing this, speak with your audiologist about modifying the settings or replacing the device.
• Take Listening Breaks: To prevent sensory exhaustion during the adjustment phase, give your brain and ears a rest periodically.
• Ensure you visit your audiologist regularly for fine-tuning, especially if your device is causing discomfort.

Knowing when to reah out to your hearing specialist for headaches

See a hearing specialist if the headaches persist after the initial adaptation time or if other symptoms– like nausea, ear pain, or dizziness– are also present.

Persistent headaches might signal that your device settings are incorrect or that there’s an underlying issue, including an ear infection or hearing aid malfunction.

A well-fitted hearing aid can improve your life

While headaches caused by hearing aids can be bothersome, they are typically temporary and easy to fix with professional assistance. A correctly adjusted hearing aid that meets your individual needs can significantly improve your quality of life without resulting in any discomfort. Reach out to your audiologist if you experience any issues; your hearing health and comfort matter! Your audiologist recognizes that pain from your hearing aid will likely make you stop wearing it.

Temporary Headaches are Normal

If you’re experiencing headaches from hearing aids, don’t worry– they’re just a bump in the road to better hearing. What you’re experiencing is common, and can probably be resolved with a few modifications. With the correct care and adjustments, you’ll be back on track, enjoying conversations, music, and the subtle sounds of life in no time!

Schedule an appointment now if you are having headaches due to your hearing aids.