Tinnitus or Ringing in Ears Explained
Do you hear intermittent or continuous noises that range from a high-pitched squeal to a low roar that you just can’t pinpoint where they are coming? Millions of Americans suffer from Tinnitus, a condition also referred to as “head noises.” Tinnitus is caused from damage to the microscopic nerve endings in your inner ear. The health of the nerve endings is crucial, and there are many different ways that you can harm them.
Can You Prevent Tinnitus?
There are many preventative measures you can take to protect your inner ear nerve endings. In younger people, it is common for tinnitus to form in those who attend very noisy recreational events such as car races, concerts, and sporting events. It is highly recommended that if you attend any of these events, you wear a form of ear protection that will help to alleviate some of the strain that could be caused by high-decibel sounds.
Although there are measures you can take to prevent tinnitus, sometimes it is almost impossible to avoid. Tinnitus can also be caused by an allergy, high/low blood pressure, a tumor, diabetes, thyroid problems, a head or neck injury, and medications such as anti-inflammatories, antibiotics, antidepressants, and aspirin. Advancing age generally also causes of some level of hearing impairment or tinnitus.
Tinnitus Treatment
Prior to treatment, it is important that you undergo a thorough examination by an otolaryngologist (most commonly referred to as an ENT Doctor). There are some tinnitus treatment options that will have varying levels of success depending on the patient. These include medication, acupuncture, hypnosis, supplements, amplification, cochlear implants, electrical stimulation, cognitive therapy, sound therapy, noise suppression, and TMJ treatment.
There are many strategies that you can use to self-help or cope with your tinnitus. A few self-help strategies include avoiding exposure to loud noises, getting your blood pressure checked, decreasing your salt intake, avoiding stimulants, exercising daily to improve circulation, getting adequate rest, and avoiding fatigue. When treatment is no longer an option, coping mechanisms such as concentration/relaxation exercises, masking the noise with white noise or a ticking clock, hearing aids, and tinnitus maskers are also great options.
Are you among the millions of Americans who are suffering from tinnitus or head noises? If you are experiencing either, it’s important to undergo a thorough examination and evaluation by an ENT doctor prior to any treatment. For Appointments: 610-415-1100
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