Can hearing aids cause dizziness or vertigo?

Can Hearing Aids Cause Dizziness or Vertigo?

Hearing aids can sometimes cause dizziness or vertigo, though these instances are rare. Dizziness or vertigo may occur if the hearing aids are not properly adjusted to your specific hearing profile, amplifying sounds too much or in an unbalanced way. Additionally, the fit of the hearing aid itself could create pressure in the ear canal, potentially leading to feelings of imbalance. In some cases, dizziness can also be linked to underlying ear conditions, such as vestibular disorders, which may be exacerbated by the use of hearing aids.

If you begin to experience dizziness or vertigo after using hearing aids, it’s crucial to consult a hearing specialist immediately. A hearing professional can perform a thorough assessment to determine whether the symptoms are related to your hearing aids or another condition. They may also adjust the hearing aid settings—such as reducing amplification or modifying frequency response—and ensure the fit is correct, which can significantly reduce or eliminate dizziness.

Understanding the Connection Between Hearing Aids and Balance Disorders

While hearing aids are primarily used to amplify sound, they can indirectly influence your balance and equilibrium, particularly if there is an underlying vestibular issue. The inner ear plays a crucial role in both hearing and balance, so when hearing aids amplify sound, they may inadvertently affect the inner ear’s balance mechanisms. For this reason, hearing aids need to be carefully calibrated by a professional to avoid overstimulation of the auditory system, which can lead to dizziness or vertigo. If you experience these symptoms, a hearing specialist may also recommend additional tests to rule out conditions like Meniere’s disease, which affects both hearing and balance.

How Melody Audiology Can Help with Dizziness and Vertigo

At Melody Audiology, our team of experienced audiologists and Registered Hearing Aid Practitioners (RHAP) specializes in addressing hearing-related balance issues. If you’re experiencing dizziness or vertigo, we can perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine the cause of your symptoms. This includes adjusting your hearing aids for optimal performance and ensuring they fit comfortably. In some cases, balance therapy, such as vestibular rehabilitation, may be recommended if a balance disorder is identified.

We also understand that dizziness can be unsettling, particularly for new hearing aid users. That’s why we offer a gradual acclimatization process to help your body adjust to the new auditory input without causing balance issues. Regular follow-up appointments are crucial for ensuring your hearing aids continue to meet your needs without exacerbating any symptoms of dizziness or vertigo.

Steps to Address Dizziness and Vertigo in Hearing Aid Users

If you’re experiencing dizziness or vertigo while wearing hearing aids, here are some essential steps to take:

1. Consult a Hearing Specialist: Schedule an appointment with a hearing professional to assess if the dizziness or vertigo is related to your hearing aids or another condition.
2. Adjust Hearing Aid Settings: An audiologist or RHAP can fine-tune the settings of your hearing aids to ensure they are amplifying sound in a way that is comfortable for you.
3. Rule Out Other Conditions: It’s important to check for other medical conditions, such as vestibular disorders or Meniere’s disease, which can cause similar symptoms.
4. Consider Balance Therapy: Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) can help retrain your brain and balance system if a balance disorder is contributing to your symptoms.
5. Acclimate Gradually: If you’re new to hearing aids, wearing them for short periods and gradually increasing use can help your body adjust and reduce dizziness.
6. Maintain Regular Check-Ups: Regular appointments with your hearing professional are essential to ensure your hearing aids continue to function properly and do not cause any balance issues.

If you are experiencing dizziness or vertigo related to your hearing aids, don’t hesitate to visit one of our hearing clinics in Downtown Edmonton, Mill Woods, South Edmonton, Sherwood Park, or St. Albert. Our expert team can diagnose the issue and provide personalized solutions to help you manage your symptoms and improve your overall hearing experience.