While hearing aids improve hearing and quality of life, some individuals may experience headaches. These can arise from factors related to the hearing aid or the user’s adjustment to amplified sound. Understanding the reasons and knowing what steps to take can help alleviate discomfort and ensure a positive hearing experience. This article explores common causes of hearing aid-related headaches and provides guidance on managing them.
Common Causes of Headaches from Hearing Aids
A primary reason for headaches from hearing aids can be an improper physical fit. If the device is too tight or loose, it can exert pressure on sensitive areas around the ear, leading to discomfort and tension headaches. This poor fit might also cause the hearing aid to move around, further irritating the ear canal.
Sound settings and volume levels also play a significant role in headache development. If the hearing aid amplifies sounds too loudly or has poorly adjusted settings, it can overwhelm the auditory system. This overstimulation requires the brain to work harder to process increased auditory input, potentially leading to mental fatigue and headaches. Conversely, if the volume is too low, the user might strain to hear, which can also cause discomfort.
Acoustic feedback, characterized by whistling or buzzing sounds, is another factor. This often occurs when amplified sound escapes the ear canal and is picked up by the hearing aid’s microphone, creating an irritating loop that contributes to discomfort and headaches. Earwax buildup can also contribute to feedback by blocking the sound’s path and forcing it back towards the microphone.
For new hearing aid users, an adjustment period is common as the brain adapts to new sounds and the device’s presence. The brain must relearn to process a wider range of sounds, which can initially feel overwhelming and cause sensory overload. This adaptation process can result in mild headaches or dizziness during the initial weeks of use.
Sometimes, headaches may not be directly caused by the hearing aid but exacerbated by it, or an unrelated underlying condition might be at play. For instance, if a user’s hearing has changed, and their existing hearing aids are no longer appropriately programmed, it can lead to similar fatigue and headache issues as their brain struggles with inadequate sound information.
Steps to Alleviate Headaches
Ensuring the hearing aid is inserted correctly and comfortably is an important first step. Users should check that the device sits snugly without causing pressure points or irritation. If the earmold or ear hook feels too tight or loose, adjustments may be necessary, sometimes by trying different sizes or materials.
Adjusting the volume and sound settings can significantly impact comfort. Users can try incrementally lowering the volume to find a more comfortable listening level, avoiding sudden, jarring changes. Consulting with an audiologist for reprogramming can fine-tune settings to match individual hearing loss patterns, ensuring sounds are clear without being overly loud.
For new users, a gradual acclimatization process can help minimize initial discomfort. Starting with shorter wearing times in quieter environments and progressively increasing the duration as the brain adapts can ease the transition. Taking short breaks from wearing the hearing aids, especially if discomfort arises or in noisy surroundings, can also provide relief.
Regular cleaning and maintenance of hearing aids are also important for optimal performance and comfort. Earwax, debris, and moisture can accumulate, blocking microphones or speakers and affecting sound quality, which could contribute to discomfort. Daily cleaning with appropriate tools helps keep the devices clear.
General health factors, such as staying hydrated, can also influence headache susceptibility. Addressing overall well-being can support the body’s adjustment to hearing aid use.
When to Consult a Professional
If headaches persist, worsen, or become severe despite attempting self-adjustments, seeking professional consultation is important. Ongoing discomfort indicates that the issue may require expert intervention beyond basic troubleshooting.
Professional help is also necessary if headaches are accompanied by other concerning symptoms. These might include dizziness, ear pain, unusual changes in hearing, or any other new or worsening physical discomfort related to the ear or head. Such symptoms could point to underlying conditions or more complex hearing aid issues.
If self-adjustment steps do not resolve the headaches, it is time to involve an audiologist. They can thoroughly examine the device and the user’s ears to identify the root cause. This could involve professional cleaning to remove stubborn buildup, checking for earwax impaction, or assessing for potential allergic reactions to hearing aid materials.
An audiologist can also address suspected hearing aid malfunction or damage. Signs of a faulty device include distorted or inconsistent sound, unexpected whistling or feedback that cannot be resolved, or changes in volume that occur without user input. The audiologist can perform diagnostic tests and make necessary repairs or recommend replacement if the device is faulty.
An audiologist can also perform professional reprogramming or refitting. This is often needed if the user’s hearing has changed or if the initial programming is not optimal. They can ensure the hearing aid is precisely adjusted to the user’s current hearing needs and provide guidance on long-term comfort and performance.