If you have any form of tinnitus, here are a few ways to keep it from getting worse.
Tinnitus, the infamous ringing in the ears, can either be constant for some or come and go for others, in some cases just in one ear. If you have heard the whistling, you may have noticed that some circumstances seem to aggravate it. Is it just in your mind? No, several things do make tinnitus worse.
Loud Noises
Whether one suffers from tinnitus or not, loud noises can induce hearing loss in anyone. Loud noises can occur around the home, such as from a lawn mower or a blender, and also outside the home, such as at construction zones or live concerts. If you have tinnitus and listen to music through earbuds or headphones, you may want to remove them. The high concentration of sound in your ears can make tinnitus worse. If you are in a loud setting, either move away from the source of the noise or wear protective earplugs.
Medication
Some medications can also make tinnitus worse for you. Types of these medications include antibiotics, cancer medications, antidepressants, over-the-counter pain relievers, and diuretics. Medications that affect the ears are called “ototoxic.” If you believe your prescription is the cause of worsened tinnitus, talk to your doctor before you stop taking it.
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is another aggravator of ringing ears. Blood pressure can increase due to a variety of factors, such as heart health, smoking, alcohol, caffeine, and stress. If you think you may need to change some habits, now is a good time to do so. Tinnitus may lead to stress, fatigue, sleeplessness, trouble concentrating, and depression. Seek ways to calm yourself and get the help you need.
Earwax
Lastly, earwax build-up can also lead to or make tinnitus worse. Earwax has its purposes for your ear health, but too much of it can irritate the eardrum and amplify symptoms. Keep your ears clean, protected against loud sounds, and in tune with healthy habits to keep your tinnitus under control.
Trust the Experts at Clarity Audiology & Hearing Solutions
Need help with your hearing? Clarity Hearing can help. Clarity Audiology & Hearing Solutions is an independently owned and operated clinic that focuses on quality of care and personalized, friendly service to the surrounding areas of Ellicott City, Catonsville, Columbia. Our Doctors of Audiology are highly trained with advanced degrees and take the time to provide the personalized care and attention that you need and deserve. We provide advanced hearing aid options that personally calibrated with cutting-edge digital technology to fit your hearing loss, your unique ear anatomy, and your individual listening needs.
Come in for a walk-in appointment on Tuesdays & Fridays from 10:00 am to 11:30 am or contact us to schedule an appointment by calling 410-698-6594 or visiting our contact page. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and LinkedIn for more blog posts, news, and updates!