Experiencing Dizziness and Balance Issues with Hearing Aids
Hello everyone! I’m a 34-year-old man who, last year, suddenly lost hearing in my left ear. The ENT specialist suggested it might have been a viral infection that impacted a sensory nerve. I have adapted fairly well since then, as my right ear compensates for the hearing loss on the left. Recently, I decided to get a hearing aid (the Resound Nexia ITC) specifically for my left ear. I have been using it for a couple of weeks now, but I tend not to wear it throughout the day because I prefer using headphones during meetings, when I’m focused, while exercising, or when handling chores at home. Toward the end of the first week of use, I began to experience some unusual sensations. I’ve felt dizzy at times, my balance seems off, and there's a peculiar tingling in my legs while I walk. This has been quite unsettling for me. I’m typically quite active—I run, lift weights, and play sports—but I can sense that my coordination isn’t quite what it used to be. Apologies for the lengthy background, but I’m curious to know if this is common. Is it something that typically resolves over time? I can’t shake the feeling that the hearing aid might be causing some of this instability. Thanks in advance for your insights!
Answers (1)
3/18/2025, 8:00:41 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about experiencing dizziness and balance issues, especially after you’ve recently started using a hearing aid. Let's break this down together.
Main Points:
- Dizziness and balance issues may arise from several causes, including adaptation to hearing aids.
- It’s essential to monitor your symptoms, especially since they are new and correlate with the introduction of the device.
Explanation:
Hearing aids can take some time to get used to, especially if there was a recent change in your hearing. They can alter how you perceive sound and can sometimes impact your balance. This is because the inner ear plays a crucial role in both hearing and balance. If the hearing aid is not fitting well or if the settings are not optimized for your ear, it might contribute to dizziness or instability.
That said, it’s also important to consider other possible reasons for your symptoms, such as stress, dehydration, or even changes in physical activity levels due to the new device.
Next Steps:
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Take Note of Symptoms: Keep a daily log of your dizziness and balance sensations. Note when they occur, how long they last, and any other associated symptoms like the tingling in your legs. This will help identify any patterns or triggers.
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Check Hearing Aid Fit: Ensure that the hearing aid is properly fitted. A poor fit can cause discomfort and affect how your brain processes sound, potentially leading to balance issues. If possible, consult with an audiologist who can assess the fit and settings of the hearing aid.
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Gradual Use: Try wearing your hearing aid for longer periods gradually, rather than avoiding it altogether. This may help your body adapt more comfortably to its presence.
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Stay Active with Care: Continue your physical activities but maybe incorporate some balance exercises (like yoga or tai chi) to help counteract any instabilities.
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Hydration and Rest: Make sure you’re well-hydrated and getting enough rest, as both dehydration and fatigue can contribute to feelings of dizziness.
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Monitor for Additional Symptoms: If the dizziness worsens or you experience other unusual symptoms (like severe headaches, significant changes in coordination, or if the tingling spreads), consider exploring medical advice for further assessment.
These steps can help support your adjustment to the hearing aid, but always remember that your well-being is important. If your symptoms persist or worsen, seeking a professional evaluation is advisable.
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