Have you just received your hearing aids? Congratulations: it’s an important step. The first weeks are a time of discovery – sometimes a little strange, too. Knowing what to expect helps you go through them calmly.
Your brain needs to get used to it again
If you’ve been hearing less for years, you’ve got used – without noticing – to a quieter world. With hearing aids the sounds come back, and your brain has to learn to handle them again. At first everything can sound loud, metallic or strange. That’s normal, and it gets better day by day.
What’s normal in the first days
- Everyday noises seem very loud: the fridge, footsteps, paper, cutlery, the tap and even the toilet flush.
- Your own voice sounds different, booming or “blocked” – and clearer than usual.
- By the end of the day you feel tired: your brain is working hard.
- You can feel the hearing aids in your ears.
How to get used to them faster
- Wear them every day. Consistency is what matters most. If it’s tiring at first, increase the hours little by little.
- Start in quiet places. First at home, then the TV and conversations with your family, then outdoors. Leave restaurants and noisy places until last.
- Read aloud. It helps you get used to your own voice.
- Be patient. It usually takes a few weeks to feel really comfortable.
- Don’t leave them in the drawer. If something isn’t right, talk to your hearing care professional: it can almost always be improved.
Keep track of how it’s going: the Hearing Diary
At your check-up it’s hard to remember everything. That’s why I created the Hearing Diary: a free app where you note in a few seconds how your day went and what bothered you. With one tap you can then send the diary as a PDF to your hearing care professional, who will get a clear picture for adjusting your hearing aids.
When to go back to your hearing care professional
In the first weeks it’s normal to need several adjustments: it’s part of the process. Go back sooner, though, if:
- the hearing aids hurt or irritate your ear;
- they often whistle even when they’re inserted properly;
- after a few weeks sounds are still too loud or unpleasant;
- you still understand little in noisy places.
💡 A small daily routine
- In the morning: put them in as soon as you’re ready.
- During the day: wear them as much as possible.
- In the evening: clean them with a dry cloth and put them on charge (or open the battery door).
Any questions?
If you have questions about your hearing or about hearing aids, write to me: I’ll reply to you personally.
To keep track of your progress you can also use the free Hearing Diary app.
This article is for information only and does not replace a medical visit or professional advice.
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