Tinnitus is the perception of sound when there is no external sound present. It can be described as ringing, buzzing, crickets, clicking, roaring, whistling, steam, or many other sounds. In rare cases people hear music. Some hear the sound in one ear, others in both ears, and some hear the sound in their head. The sound can be intermittent or constant. Approximately 10% of the U.S. adult population experience tinnitus of some form.
Tinnitus is not a disease, but rather a symptom. There are many disorders that list tinnitus as a symptom and many medications that list tinnitus as a side effect. Tinnitus is very often a symptom of sensorineural hear loss. This type of hearing loss is often caused by normal aging and/or noise exposure.
Tinnitus is not a steady, constant flow. There are times when it is hardly noticeable and times tinnitus spikes and can be unbearable. It is important to learn your triggers so that you can work to avoid them. What can cause tinnitus to spike?
- Alcohol
- Nicotine
- Stress
- Sleep deprivation
- Certain noises or exposure to loud noises
- Caffeine
- Dehydration
- Medications
- Supplements
- Allergies
- Changes in weather
- Recreational drug use
The best way to learn your triggers is to track you good days and bad days. Keeping a journal is a great way to track. Personally, stress is the primary trigger for my tinnitus. I also notice it much more if I do not get a good night’s sleep. Wearing hearing aids helps me manage my tinnitus. Once you identify what triggers your tinnitus spikes, then you can go to work at managing them.
What should you do if you have tinnitus? First, have your ears checked for wax and have your hearing tested. If you have hearing loss, hearing aids may help you hear your environment better and notice your tinnitus less. Avoid being in a quiet room. You can play the radio or use a sound machine. Protect your ears from loud sounds.
If you are experiencing tinnitus, call Gardner Audiology today to schedule an appointment with a doctor of audiology at one of our 9 locations. Call 1-800-277-1182 or message info@gardneraudiology.com
