“Tinnitus is a symptom of other underlying conditions, not a disease or illness”
(Tinnitus Australia, 2021).
Tinnitus is very common. In fact, approximately one in three Australians experience tinnitus, and one in six suffer from constant tinnitus daily.
Tinnitus is described as hearing a sound in the ears or head, such as a ringing, buzzing, humming, roaring, or hissing, where there is no external source. It can be constant or intermittent, loud or soft, in one ear or both, and it can vary in severity.
While tinnitus can be challenging to live with, the more we can understand it, the more we can regain control and actively work towards reducing its impact on our lives.
What causes it?
There are many causes of tinnitus. Sometimes tinnitus may be caused by a change in the ears such as an ear infection, head and neck injury, build-up of earwax, certain medications, stress and anxiety, hearing loss, or exposure to loud sounds. For others, it may be more complicated. It is important to work with your hearing care specialist to check your hearing and understand ways to manage and cope with tinnitus effectively. Our hearing specialists can help you:
- Understand the tinnitus
- Check your hearing
- Discuss a management plan
How can I manage it?
1. Protect Your Hearing: To prevent tinnitus caused by exposure to loud noise, use earplugs or noise-canceling headphones when in noisy nvironments, such as concerts or construction sites.
2. Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate tinnitus symptoms. Engage in relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to reduce stress levels.
3. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: A balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep can contribute to overall well-being and potentially alleviate tinnitus.
4. Avoid Triggers: Identify and avoid substances that can worsen tinnitus, such as caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol.
5. Seek Medical Help: If tinnitus is affecting your quality of life, consult a healthcare professional or an audiologist. They can help determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatments or therapies.
6. Tinnitus Therapies
Several therapies and treatments have shown promise in managing tinnitus:
- Hearing Aids: For those with hearing loss and tinnitus, hearing aids can amplify external sounds, making tinnitus less noticeable.
- Sound Therapy: White noise machines, nature sounds, or music can help mask the tinnitus sounds, making them less bothersome.
Remember, you’re not alone in your journey to manage tinnitus, and seeking professional help is always a valuable option. If you or a loved one is experiencing tinnitus today, don’t delay – contact the Total Hearing team on 1300 415 718 to secure an appointment!