TINNITUS AWARENESS: UNDERSTANDING AND MANAGING SOUNDS WITHIN
INTRODUCTION
As we mark Tinnitus Awareness Week, Midwest Hearing is committed to shedding light on this common symptom that is not a disease but a symptom. Tinnitus affects approximately 15% to 20% of the population and is particularly prevalent among older adults. This blog post aims to provide clarity on what tinnitus is, its causes, triggers, and the strategies available for management.
WHAT IS TINNITUS?
Tinnitus is the hearing of sound when no external sound is present, often described as a ringing, buzzing, chirping, humming, or hissing. It can be a constant or intermittent experience, can occur in one or both ears, and the intensity can vary.
TINNITUS CAUSES
Underlying Conditions
The predominant cause of tinnitus is hearing loss, often related to loud noise exposure. Additional factors include:
• Ear wax build-up
• Ear infections
• Damage to auditory hair cells from age, noise, or medications
• Head or neck injuries
• Eustachian tube dysfunction
• TMJ disorders
• Neurological diseases such as multiple sclerosis
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Migraines
• Thyroid disorders
• Concussions
• Lyme disease
• Autoimmune disorders
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Acoustic neuroma
Mental Health and Medications
Mental well-being impacts tinnitus, with a strong correlation with stress, anxiety, and depression. Furthermore, many medications, including NSAIDs, diuretics, antidepressants, and chemotherapy drugs, can cause tinnitus.
Managing Tinnitus Triggers
To minimize tinnitus episodes:
• Protect your ears from loud noises.
• Avoid complete silence.
• Limit stimulants like caffeine and alcohol.
• Monitor your intake of foods and substances that may exacerbate tinnitus.
COPING WITH TINNITUS
Lifestyle Adjustments
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, ensuring adequate sleep, and engaging in relaxation techniques can help lessen the impact of tinnitus.
Sound Therapy
Incorporating low-level background noise through fans or apps like “Calm” or “ReSound Relief” can provide relief in quiet environments.
Hearing Aids
Hearing aids can greatly reduce the perception of tinnitus by amplifying external sounds, which also brings additional benefits such as improved communication and cognitive function.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
CBT offers techniques to help manage the response to tinnitus, with options including Tinnitus Retraining Therapy and Progressive Tinnitus Management.
Exploring Therapy Options
• Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT): Combines counseling and sound therapy, available at Audiology Concepts.
• Treble Health: Provides online Telehealth services focused on tinnitus.
• Progressive Tinnitus Management (PTM): A self-paced program developed by the National Center for Rehabilitative Auditory Research.
• Mechanical means of therapy available. Levo Medial and Lenire.
Alternative Management Methods
While alternative therapies such as acupuncture and hypnosis are explored, they lack scientific support for their efficacy in treating tinnitus.
CONCLUSION
It’s important to consult with your physician about tinnitus concerns. For further information, visit the American Tinnitus Association, the British Tinnitus Association, and the National Library of Medicine.
Tinnitus management is highly individual, and during this Tinnitus Awareness Week, Midwest Hearing encourages anyone affected by tinnitus to seek guidance and explore the various management strategies available.