Getting fitted with hearing aids for the first time can be both exciting and a little frustrating. Whether you’re eager to enjoy discussions more clearly, reconnect with loved ones, or just hear the world around you again, it’s a big step toward greater hearing health. But like any new experience, it’s not uncommon to have concerns, especially about how hearing aids will feel and how long it might take to adapt.
New users frequently have concerns about the experience. Will the hearing aid be cumbersome or uncomfortable to use? Will common noises be overwhelming at first? How long will it take to adjust to normal sounds? These apprehensions are common, but with the correct support and a bit of determination, most individuals discover that hearing aids become a worry-free and essential part of day-to-day life.
Let’s explore what to expect during the adaptation period and how you can make the transition as hassle-free as possible.
What to expect during the preliminary adjustment period
Do hearing aids produce discomfort? At first, they can feel a bit peculiar, particularly if you’ve never put anything in your ears regularly. Just like using a new pair of glasses or adjusting to a wristwatch , it takes time for your brain and body to adjust.
You will notice the most substantial changes in two main areas in the initial weeks of using hearing aids.
Physical sensation
You might encounter a feeling of discomfort or strangeness in your ear initially. It is typical and common for many specialists in hearing health to recommend a gradual approach to using the device, beginning with a few hours every day and gradually extending the time.
A bit of discomfort is okay, but pain isn’t. If you experience soreness or pain from your devices, reach out to your hearing care professional without delay. They can fine-tune the fit or try out a different design better suited to your ear shape.
Sound perception
One of the most surprising parts of the adjustment process is hearing daily sounds that you might not have heard before.
Initially, everyday sounds like the fridge’s gentle thrum, birds chirping, or the creak of your own footsteps can seem unusually loud. Accordingly, your brain is reacquainting itself with a broader spectrum of auditory signals.
It might feel overwhelming, but your brain will gradually learn to filter out unimportant background sound and focus on what really matters, like voices and music. Your auditory system is essentially redressing and adapting to new sounds.
Recommendations for increasing the comfort and efficiency of hearing aids
Luckily, there are various tactics available to assist in making you feel secure and positive as you acclimate to your new hearing devices.
1. Start gradually
You don’t need to feel obligated to wear your hearing aids all day immediately. Begin with one to four hours a day, especially in quieter environments like your home.
Gradually increase as you become more comfortable with the feel and sound of the devices.
2. Practice makes perfect
Try using your hearing aids while engaging in activities that help your brain adjust. Engaging in activities like following along with audiobooks as you read or watching movies with subtitles can improve your ability to distinguish speech and improve your listening skills in an enjoyable manner.
3. Stay in touch with your hearing specialist
Fit and performance go hand-in-hand. If you experience any discomfort or notice that something is not right, such as the fit of the device or the sound quality, take action immediately. Your hearing care provider can adjust your devices and give suggestions for improved results. In some cases, a custom-fit hearing aid might be the best option for your distinct ear shape and needs.
Welcoming your new hearing experience
It’s completely normal to experience a brief adjustment period with your hearing aids. Through regular usage, persistent maintenance, and assistance from your audiologist, your new hearing aids will quickly become an integral part of your everyday life.
Rather than focusing on the device itself, your attention will shift to the joys of clearer conversations, natural sounds, music, and everyday interactions.
The path to success lies in perseverance, commitment, and taking charge of your well-being. Pretty soon, your hearing aids will not only enhance your auditory experience, but also enhance your overall quality of life.