Can Hearing Aids Cause Headaches? Understanding the Causes and Solutions

If you’ve recently started experiencing headaches while using your hearing aids, you might be wondering if there’s a connection. The short answer is yes, hearing aids can sometimes cause headaches, but the good news is that these issues are usually easy to resolve.
Before you consider abandoning your hearing aids, let’s explore why this might
be happening and what can be done to fix it.
Why Hearing Aids Can Cause Headaches
1. Adjusting to New Sound Levels: Your ears
and brain work together to process sound. When you have hearing loss, your
brain gets used to receiving less auditory information. With hearing aids, you
suddenly hear a lot more sounds, which can overwhelm your brain. This
adjustment period can be like a mental workout, causing fatigue and, eventually,
headaches. Just as your muscles ache after starting a new exercise routine,
your brain can feel similarly fatigued when adjusting to new sound levels.
Also Read: Do People with Migraines Have a Higher Chance of Hearing Loss?

2. Overstimulation from New Sounds: Hearing aids don’t just amplify speech; they bring back all the subtle sounds you’ve
been missing, like the hum of a refrigerator or the rustling of leaves.
Initially, these sounds may seem loud and intrusive because your brain has not
processed them in a while. This sensory overload can be overwhelming and lead to
headaches as your brain struggles to filter out unimportant noises.
3. Incorrect Fitting or Programming:
Hearing aids are customized based on your audiogram and lifestyle needs.
However, if the devices aren’t fitted properly or the programming isn’t adjusted
accurately, you may experience discomfort. For example, excessive volume or
poor fitting can create pressure in your ear canal, which may lead to
headaches. If your hearing aids feel uncomfortable or the sound seems too
intense, it’s time for a professional adjustment.
Also Read: How Are Hearing Aids Programmed?
Solutions for Hearing Aid-Induced Headaches
1. Gradual Adaptation: If your headaches
are due to the adjustment period, try wearing your hearing aids for shorter
periods each day and gradually increase the duration as your brain acclimates.
This can help reduce the overload and give your brain time to get used to the
new sound levels.
2. Schedule a Professional Check-Up: If
your hearing aids are causing discomfort or the volume feels too loud, visit
your hearing care provider. They can fine-tune the settings and ensure the fit
is comfortable. Adjustments to the programming can significantly reduce the
strain on your ears and brain.
3. Regular Maintenance and Upgrades:
Hearing can change over time due to factors like aging, noise exposure, or health
conditions. Regular check-ups ensure your hearing aids are meeting your current
needs. If your devices are outdated or no longer suitable, consider upgrading
to newer technology with advanced features that offer better sound quality and
comfort.
Book a Free Hearing Test & Trial at Aanvii Hearing
Headaches from hearing aids are typically
temporary and can be managed with the right adjustments. Don’t let discomfort
keep you from enjoying the benefits of better hearing. At Aanvii Hearing, we
are committed to providing personalized care to ensure your hearing aids are a
perfect fit for your needs.
If you’re experiencing headaches or discomfort, schedule an appointment with us today for a thorough evaluation and adjustments to help you get the most out of your hearing aids. For more information call us at 96 5839 5839 or visit www.aanviihearing.com.