Getting fitted with hearing aids for the first time can be both thrilling and a little overwhelming. Taking the action to improve your hearing can have a profound impact, allowing you to engage more fully in conversations, strengthen relationships with family and friends, and restore a deeper connection to the sounds that improve your daily life. But like any new experience, it’s not uncommon to have concerns, particularly about how hearing aids will feel and how long it might take to adapt.
Lots of first-time users are not sure what to expect. Will the hearing aids feel cumbersome or awkward? Will ordinary noises be overwhelming at first? How long will it take to adapt to normal sounds? Most people share these worries, yet with proper support and some patience, many find that wearing hearing aids becomes a normal and beneficial aspect of their daily activities.
Let’s delve into what to anticipate during the adaptation period and how you can make the transition as hassle-free as possible.
What to anticipate during the preliminary adjustment time
So, are hearing aids uncomfortable? At first, they might take some getting used to, especially if you’re not accustomed to having objects in your ears. Just like wearing 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 significant 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 standard and common for many specialists in hearing health to suggest a gradual strategy to using the device, starting with a few hours daily and gradually extending the time.
A little discomfort is fine, but pain isn’t. If your devices cause discomfort or inflammation, don’t hesitate to contact your hearing care specialist. They can adjust the fit or try a different style better suited to your ear shape.
Sound perception
Experiencing day-to-day sounds that were formerly unnoticed can be one of the most unanticipated aspects of adjusting to a new environment.
The thrum of the refrigerator, birds singing outside your window, or your own footsteps may seem amplified at first. This is because your brain is learning to deal with a fuller range of sounds again.
It may feel overwhelming, but your brain will gradually learn to filter out trivial background sound and focus on what really matters, like voices and music. This is just your auditory system “retraining” itself.
Suggestions for increasing the comfort and effectiveness of hearing aids
Fortunately, there are multiple techniques available to help in making you feel secure and self-assured as you acclimate to your new hearing devices.
1. Start slowly
You don’t have to feel obligated to wear your hearing aids all day instantly. Start with dedicating one to four hours daily, particularly in tranquil settings like your residence.
Progressively build up as you become more comfortable with the feel and sound of the hearing aids.
2. Practice makes perfect
To help your brain adjust, use your hearing aids while taking part in stimulating activities. Participating in activities like reading along with audiobooks as you read or watching movies with subtitles can enhance your ability to recognize speech and enhance your listening skills in an enjoyable way.
3. Keep in touch with your hearing specialist
Fit and performance go hand-in-hand. If something doesn’t seem right, whether it’s how the device fits in your ear or how the sound is being handled, don’t wait. Your audiologist can adjust your devices and offer recommendations for improved results. In some situations, a custom-fit hearing aid might be the best solution for your distinct ear shape and needs.
Welcoming your new hearing experience
It’s completely normal to experience a short adjustment period with your hearing aids. With regular use, correct care, and support from your hearing specialist, your hearing aids will soon feel like second nature.
Rather than focusing on the device itself, your attention will shift to the joys of clearer conversations, nature sounds, music, and day-to-day interactions.
The road to success depends on perseverance, dedication, and taking charge of your wellness. With time, your hearing aids will not only enhance your hearing experience, but also enhance your overall quality of life.