For those experiencing hearing loss, hearing aids offer an opportunity to greatly enhance communication abilities and social connections, with nearly 28.8 million Americans standing to benefit from their use.
If you’re new to wearing hearing aids, it’s normal to wonder what it will be like as you adjust to having them. Here’s what you can expect during your first few days with hearing aids and how to make the experience as smooth as possible.
Getting Acclimated to New Sounds
When you first put on hearing aids, one of the most immediate differences you’ll notice is the sudden influx of sounds that may have been faint or completely missed before. You might now clearly hear:
- The ticking of a clock
- The rustling of clothes
- The quiet hum of household electronics
Since hearing loss tends to develop gradually, your brain may have adapted to living without these subtle sounds. As they return, these sounds can feel overwhelming. However, over time, your brain will naturally learn to filter out these less important sounds, and you’ll begin to focus more on the sounds that matter.
Physical Sensations and Adjustments
In addition to adapting to hearing things you’d previously been missing, it’s important to be aware of the physical adjustment that comes with wearing hearing aids. At first, you might feel sensations like fullness or slight pressure in your ears, which can feel unusual.
Just like with any new device, there’s an adjustment period, and your ears will gradually get used to them. If discomfort or irritation persists, it’s crucial to reach out to your hearing specialist for a proper adjustment to ensure a comfortable fit.
Tips for Easing the Transition
Patience is key as you get accustomed to your hearing aids. It’s natural for there to be a learning curve as you adapt to both the physical sensations and the enhanced sounds around you. Be sure to follow up with your hearing specialist for any necessary tweaks to the settings, ensuring your devices meet your needs.
If you’re ready to learn more about hearing aids or schedule a consultation, contact Hearing Healthcare Center, Inc. today.